On Fri, 10 Sep 2004 18:03:11 +0100, "James Penton"
wrote:

I've just applied for my new Student Photocard. On the application form
it says 'During 2004-2005 some students will be issued with an Oyster
photocard'. I read that as a combined Oyster and photocard in one.
Anyone know anything more - Paul? Is that what a Freedom Pass is like?

Also, when I get my new card, assuming it is a normal photocard, do I
have to change my Oyster too, i.e. are photocards and Oysters
'hard-wired' together?

At present no - the only tenuous link is between photocard number and
card number which I think is collected via the application form.

It was always the intention that the photo image be on the card thus
removing the need for two documents. The main problem was the very rapid
changes in the cost and performance of imaging technology. If you bought
something it would be obsolete in weeks; if you sub contracted it then
you lengthen the time to buy a ticket by forcing people to submit their
card applications to an external agency and then you have the postal
cost and risk of loss. The card itself is also more expensive to buy and
there is the need to ensure that the photo image cannot be damaged or
tampered with. It was impossible to justify a system wide approach to
combined cards with that level of cost / technology risk.

In addition the cost and hassle of transferring people en masse when
Oyster was introduced would guarantee a poor start for a new product.
I'm not up to date with developments now but it seems that a quieter and
smaller scale test of the combined card / photo option has been decided
upon for those card holders who are a bit less time pressured. If the
process and technology works then I can see such cards being offered as
an option for the future.
--
Paul C


Admits to working for London Underground!