I'm a Compass Beta Tester!

In July, when I heard Translink was looking for volunteers to test their new Compass Card, I registered.  At that time, they were looking for 5,000 active translink users, but they were more popular than they thought because they ended up with 10,000 volunteers testing for them. Yes, volunteers. Because we get basically nothing in return. Not even a free trip! But yup, I signed up.

So if you haven't heard yet, the Compass card is going to replace all the paper tickets that Translink currently uses. In early September, I received a Compass card in the mail. 

Compass card

What else did I get? 10 informational handouts and a Beta Tester Guide Book.

Beta Tester Guide Book & informational handouts

The testing officially started on September 9th. We were told to tap in and out when taking transit, but also paying for our fares or showing our pass like normal. Even though the cards came charged with a monthly pass or money, they were "fake" as it was just used to test the system. 

Informational handouts are for those who are curious and want to learn more about the new Compass card. Here it is: 

Some Compass Quick Facts:

- Compass will replace over 150 different tickets and passes used today.

- Compass will be easy to use. You'll simply tap in to enter and tap out to exit, and the system will automatically determine the correct amount to charge (at tap out). 

- Card registration will offer features like AutoLoad and Balance Protection, which protects the value of a card in the event it's lost or stolen.

- As fare gates go up, fare evasion will go down - and transit riders will enjoy a safer, more secure transit experience. 

On buses, you tap in near the bus driver and tap out right at the doors. I'm sure you've all seen this around:

And for sky train and Canada Line stations, there will be gates that open and close. 

Q & A

Why did I sign up when there's no perks/free rides?

The big reason is that I am a curious individual, but wait, there is a perk - being the first to try out the new transit system in Vancouver! But I agree, TransLink should definitely involve some free rides or load up our cards for real for us volunteers. The small reason (as cheesy as it may sound) is that I do want to be helpful to TransLink as they have been really helpful to me for the past 10 years. Taking me to and from school, to and from some of the most special events in my life thus far, and providing me quite a comfortable place to nap...etc.

Why is it important to tap out? 

So that we're charged for the appropriate zones we travel. I believe the default is 3 zones if we don't tap out - what a killer. So, remember to tap out! Also, this apparently gives them data to know where people are travelling in order to manage the schedules, etc. 

Do I have any concerns? If only the 99 B-line back doors and the compass card readers could swap sensitivities... 

My concerns are with the speed of the tapping system. I don't find them being very responsive as it doesn't detect my card right away. Apparently, people go in/out the same way - so I can't imagine rush hour and how chaotic it'll be. Having to tap out will also slow down traffic? Hopefully it's better than the picture in my head.

Generally, I'm supportive of the new system - way less waste and litter on the ground and much more environmentally-friendly. It's about time.

Compass cards are for a refundable deposit of $6. Then start loading up your card with money because it's cheaper than paying with cash!

More info on TransLink's website