Breaking the cliché and what has become the standard these days, U.S. mobility solutions specialist Flowbird has partnered with Kerbside management to release a new Pay-to-Text system.
This is new system allows drivers to pay for parking with their phones, without having to download and use a proprietary app, but through Short Message Services (SMS).
Flowbird already has a long list of other payment options in their portfolio, according to Smart Cities World, ‘providing parkers with a new way to pay in today’s contactless environment.’
When users go to pay, their data is sent to Flowbird’s data management array, where the data can also be integrated with other payment methods as well. With the fused data, parking staff can evaluate sessions in real time, tracking data by zone, date, time, and so forth.
Smart Cities World further explains, ‘Drivers text a code to the number provided on the sign or sticker displayed at the parking location. A QR code can also be included on the signage if desired. After the driver texts the number or scans the QR code, they immediately receive a secure link to follow in order to input their parking details. They enter either their license plate or parking space number, parking duration and payment information.’
The confirmation message is then sent back and the parking session commences. This information is all sent to parking enforcement staff to see if the driver is in compliance.
Once the session is over, the payment data is encrypted and the card information is not stored by Flowbird. Smart phones can however store the number for the next visit so the passcode does not need to be entered each time.
The system can also be configured to be used as Pay-by-plate or by a Pay-by-Parking Space mechanism. Furthermore, this system can also integrate with other parking apps, kiosks, and parking meters.
‘Flowbird said by offering the customer multiple options to pay, cities and universities can help motorists stay in compliance with parking enforcement, reducing the number of citations and potentially negative parking experiences. It provides city authorities with stickers and signage to promote the solution and drive adoption, Smart Cities World added.
Flowbird’s services and technologies and are used in over 900 cities and colleges are around the world.
AUTHOR COMMENTARY
I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.
Proverbs 8:12
I mention this report because while it is not automatically a QR code scanning thing we are seeing EVERYWHERE these days, this one still keeps people attached and needing their phones. Moreover, it provides yet another way to be tracked and surveilled.
But the real goal is to get everyone used to the contactless idea via phones and what not. Then the media will say that even that is too cumbersome, and going biometric is the key.
[7] Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? [8] Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also? [9] For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? [10] Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. (1 Corinthians 9:7-10).
The WinePress needs your support! If God has laid it on your heart to want to contribute, please prayerfully consider donating to this ministry. If you cannot gift a monetary donation, then please donate your fervent prayers to keep this ministry going! Thank you and may God bless you.
“potentially negative parking experiences”….what sophist GARBAGE. The ilk of their Luciferian/Satanic world which the builders who’ve rejected the chief cornerstone, & all who follow & trust them, are building & allowing. Their ‘love’ and their ‘life’ are of the same lying ‘value’ and worth, & end at the same ditch. The ULTIMATE ‘negative parking experience’. Good grief.