ABS has selected Skype for its voice and instant messaging software solution. Skype is the leading voice over Internet company and provides companies and users with free phone and instant messaging services with Skype accounts. Each Driver will be setup with a Skype phone number organized under a single company Skype account for the PtMS Mobile system user (e.g. Paratransit Company ABC). When a driver logs into this Mobile Unit the system will automatically log him into his Skype account so he can send or receive calls and instant messages to Dispatch.

If video units are installed in the vehicle, voice call will automatically trigger video calling so dispatch and drivers can see each other.

Skype provides the following features for PtMS Mobile Users:

Calls: driver to dispatch or dispatch to driver hands free voice (and video) connections

Conference Calls: Dispatcher can add multiple drivers to a single conference call if needed with a single click.

Instant Messaging: Instant messaging (IM) is a real-time alternative to calling. when it's not a good time to talk. Simply type your conversation instead. This is especially useful when sending driver instructions.

Skype saves the full message history on your computer, so you can go back through your old messages. This can be useful for both dispatcher and driver.

Group Instant Messaging: This feature is especially useful for the dispatcher as they can send a message to all drivers, or special driver groups at once.