"Ben Nunn" wrote in message ...

On this basis, surely the most pressing need for Oyster was never for
long-term season tickets at all, but for pre-pay customers?

I'm sure pre-pay customers are the main target - but, with a system so
complex, I think it makes good sense first to test it with a
relatively small group of customers in the way they are doing. By
gradually rolling-out ticket availability any major problems will,
hopefully, be dealt with without inconveniencing millions of people.
There would be nothing worse for customer-confidence in Oyster than
the whole ticketing system keeling over the day after the full-scale
launch (I'm not saying this won't happen though! - this is LUL after
all - but I wish them every success).

Actually, how will they administer this? Would you be able to decide you
want a one day travelcard before you set out, then arrange it online, then
get on at your local busstop, swipe the oyster, and not be charged for the
single bus journey?

I hope so - but there has been no announcemant to this effect.