Nomad Digital

Bolstering Alstom’s reputation for being at the cutting edge of the increased convergence of rail and IT systems, and the digital integration now demanded by operators and passengers alike, is the company’s acquisition of Nomad Digital in December 2016.

Founded in 2002, Nomad Digital is based in Newcastle and employs more than 200 people at 13 offices worldwide. As a pioneer in rail connectivity and passenger applications, its product portfolio includes passenger WiFi provision, passenger information systems, and on-board entertainment and media platforms such as BEAM, which streams media content directly to passengers’ personal devices. This is currently available in the UK on Virgin West Coast and Virgin Trains East Coast services.

It has also worked with Alstom to install ‘infotainment’ platforms with several international operators, that provides passengers with real-time journey and service information.

Having worked with more than 80 operators in over 40 countries across the globe, Nomad Digital’s creativity and expertise are already being harnessed by Alstom to generate the next generation of innovative technical solutions for operators.

Says Muldoon: “I think when something becomes a standard feature, such as WiFi, we start to see it as part of the ‘basic’ service. People start to expect more, so we need to make sure we are delighting passengers by exceeding their expectations. Nomad Digital will make sure we remain at the forefront of delivering that, and not rest on our laurels.

“You have to be constantly on the ball with technology, and keep developing new products, which is why we’re looking at on- and off-train products and service provision innovations to improve the overall experience.

“We are very keen to nourish Nomad Digital’s creative flair, so watch this space.”