New train crew management system to boost Norfolk Southern operating efficiency

LOUISVILLE, Colo., and NORFOLK, Va., May 2, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- A new train crew management and payroll system now being developed is expected to boost operating efficiency, lower costs and increase productivity, supporting goals of Norfolk Southern's strategic plan to improve corporate performance.

Norfolk Southern and software company PS Technology have agreed to develop the automated system for phased future deployment throughout Norfolk Southern's network.

"Incorporating PS Technology's CrewPro software with our operating and data platforms will save costs and streamline Norfolk Southern's train crew management and payroll processes," said Fred Ehlers, NS vice president information technology. "When deployed, the system will expand Norfolk Southern's digital capabilities to enhance interactions with our train crews."

Ehlers said the software optimizes train crew assignments by factoring in employees' work schedules and geographical operating credentials, federal regulations, and labor contract requirements. "In effect, the software analyzes data to come up with the best, most efficient match of crew and train," Ehlers said.

Seenu Chundru, PS Technology president, said, "We are pleased to collaborate with our longtime business partner Norfolk Southern to develop CrewPro. The system leverages technology to reduce costs of managing train and engine service crews. Optimization tools enable automated decision-making support and efficiency improvements."

In addition to crew assignments, CrewPro ultimately will manage payroll, taxi and lodging services, and vacation scheduling for some 11,700 Norfolk Southern transportation employees in train and engine service.

About PS Technology
PS Technology (PST) is committed to delivering significant and measurable returns to its clients and partners. For over three decades, PST has improved the processes and systems surrounding crew management, timekeeping and physics-based simulation solutions with integrity and a desire to create value.

PST's asset management systems power the largest railroads in North America. PST's crew management and timekeeping solutions have been used to manage the day-to-day operations of over 100,000 employees that run, maintain and support rail operations across more than 120,000 miles of rail. PST's physics-based simulation solutions provide a premium learning environment.

About Norfolk Southern
Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC) is one of the nation's premier transportation companies. Its Norfolk Southern Railway Company subsidiary operates approximately 19,500 route miles in 22 states and the District of Columbia, serves every major container port in the eastern United States, and provides efficient connections to other rail carriers. Norfolk Southern operates the most extensive intermodal network in the East and is a major transporter of coal, automotive, and industrial products.

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SOURCE Norfolk Southern Corporation