The Chicago Transit Authority went live today, in conjunction with Google maps, with a trip planner for Chicago residents and tourists that plots out trips using public transportation.  Plug in the starting and finishing addresses, and not only will the route pop up, but also pictures of the route.  The planner can show the cost differential between using public transportation and driving; and the service is available in 11 different languages.

While there are still bugs (for one, it doesn't connect with the Regional Transportation Authority), it is a strong example of how long standing operations can adopt new technology to give customers enhanced service options.  The CTA says its cost to implement this solution was negligible, and that they could earn upwards of $60,000 from ads appearing on the site.  Google, which did all the work, expands its name and market share.  Customers can more easily find their routes.

Sounds win-win-win to me.

What way has your organization found to run its business cheaper, faster, and better?