A solid strategic plan is just the first step of the journey towards achieving the aims set out. Major progress within industry cannot be achieved by one party, but requires joined-up efforts from many players, and this is definitely the case for the rail industry and the RTS. To deliver the short- and longer-term goals set out in the strategy, the whole industry and supply chain will need to continue to work together, including securing input from outside of the rail sector.

It is also key to recognise the exceptional times at which this strategy is published. Covid-19 has brought unprecedent and long-term changes in the way we live and travel. These require the railway to rethink its proposition to its customers and wider society, and the best structure to deliver it. This digital, living RTS aims to inform and complement this thinking as it evolves, ensuring that it is aware of the technical solutions available and that future technical developments remain relevant to the strategic direction of the rail industry.

For the strategy to evolve and remain current, it needs to capture what wider industry is delivering or considering initiating in relationship to the five functional priorities and the enablers. The ‘Who is doing what?’ section for each priority is set up to welcome (and then share) inputs from all parties, so we invite you all to let us know what you are working on. The aim is to help potential partners and customers find you and understand what is available whilst protecting your IPR.

Further, we have an established series of meetings that seek to share current and upcoming activities across different research programmes and funding streams. The R&D Coordination Group performs deep-dives into the RTS functional priorities, helping raise awareness, align efforts and discuss these developments.

Also, we are looking to expand the range of case studies featured in the RTS. These have a key role in helping the railway to celebrate and publicise its technical successes and learn lessons, so please share your stories with the working group at rts@rssb.co.uk

The need is not only for individuals and organisations to add to the picture, but also to constructively challenge the direction of travel and its speed. In particular, we are always interested to know about new ideas and opportunities to accelerate towards the stated vision for 2040. Sharing thoughts across industry on these matters will be invaluable in continuing to challenge ourselves and make rapid, positive progress.

Please get in touch at rts@rssb.co.uk