Challenge
NMBS wanted to validate a new approach to bicycle parking that balanced accessibility, user autonomy, and fraud prevention. The system had to be intuitive for commuters while providing the operational control needed by NMBS staff.
The platform needed to:
- Offer secure and frictionless login, ideally using existing digital identity tools
- Support both QR-code and card-based access linked to user accounts
- Enforce free 24-hour parking with automatic fee calculation beyond that limit
- Integrate with Skidata’s hardware for real-time access rights
- Give NMBS teams a reliable backoffice to monitor usage and manage exceptions
For this POC, we worked in tight collaboration with NMBS and Skidata, combining business insights, on-site operational realities, and technical requirements into a single streamlined solution.
Our iterative approach enabled rapid prototyping, quick validation moments, and smooth integration with Skidata’s infrastructure. This joint effort ensured that the platform realistically addressed user needs while remaining technically feasible for future deployments.
Main Features
We developed a lightweight, user-friendly, and secure web application that connects commuters to Skidata’s access control system. Key features include:
Secure Authentication via itsme®
Users log in safely with itsme®, ensuring verified identities and reducing fraudulent use.
🔳 QR Code Access
Instant generation of a unique QR code granting access to the bike parking.
🎫 MOBIB & Transport Card Linking
Users can associate public transport cards (e.g., MOBIB) as an additional access method.
⏱️ 24-Hour Free Parking Logic
Automatic calculation of free and paid periods, with fees only charged after the limit is exceeded.
💶 Payment Thresholds & Fraud Protection
Users can accumulate up to €6 before requiring payment, ensuring convenience without abuse.
🖥️ NMBS Backoffice
A dedicated platform allowing staff to manage users, monitor sessions, adjust thresholds, void payments, and block access when necessary.
⚙️ Hardware Integration with Skidata
Direct communication ensuring real-time synchronisation between user rights and gate access.
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Impact
The POC validated the feasibility of a modern, digital, and user-friendly bike parking solution. Key impacts include:
- Smooth access experience for commuters through QR codes and transport cards
- Improved security thanks to verified login and fraud-limiting mechanisms
- Operational visibility for NMBS staff via a dedicated monitoring backoffice
- Successful proof of concept, opening the door to future deployments at other stations
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