Located near Toronto, Ontario, Interactive-OR is an R&D lab, established from the Department of Civil Engineering in the Lassonde School of Engineering at York University, that aims to solve complex problems through interactive web-based platforms using Machine Learning and Operations Research (OR). They aim to bridge the gap between research and development by creating intuitive, accessible, and dynamic tools that empower decision-makers across industries.

Their web-based solutions are:

• Interactive: Enabling users to make design changes interactively
• Cloud-Based: Providing access through Web-based platforms 
• Intuitive: Eliminating the need for extensive technical training
• Data-driven: Focusing on visual insights and analytical data processing
• Model-driven: Empowering predictive and prescriptive analytics

Interactive-OR tools aim to address challenges in diverse sectors, including active transportation, mobility electrification, transit planning, parking management, and traffic safety. Active transportation is a key focus of Interactive-OR, where they develop tools that enhance the planning, analysis, and management of active mobility systems like bikeshare programs. 

One of Interactive-OR’s recent developments is the Bikeshare Pro tool. This tool is designed to provide actionable insights for bikeshare system operators and planners. Bikeshare Pro is an interactive web-based platform that provides network design and analysis capabilities using data-driven and model-driven analytics. The tool integrates demand prediction and network optimization engines to design systems based on various objectives. Interactive-OR believes that the tool can streamline decision-making related to optimizing station locations, dock capacity, and charger availability while assessing performance against goals such as ridership, equity, accessibility, and transit integration.

Bikeshare Pro aims to support both planning and operations, with the goal to  empower bikeshare systems to achieve greater sustainability and efficiency. 

More information can be found at interactive-or.net/bikesharepro

When asked about the value of NABSA membership they said that NABSA serves as a vital connection between academia and industry, fostering collaboration with key leaders and innovators in the micromobility space. “Through its extensive resources, events, and industry-focused initiatives, NABSA provides guidance on the next steps for R&D in micromobility. This collaboration enables us to transform academic research into practical, data-driven solutions that address the most pressing needs of the micromobility sector effectively and sustainably.”