Management of Technology - Uber

Describe technology

What is Uber?

Uber is an app-based cab service, which directly connects drivers with passengers. Instead of booking a car through an agency or hailing a cab on the street, it is an on-demand car service allowing you to order a car from your smartphone with only a few taps.

Launched in San Francisco, California, Uber operated in over 70 countries and is currently valued at $70 billion. Founders Travis Kalanick and Garret Camp in 2008 had trouble hailing a cab so they came up with a simple idea- tap a button, get a ride.

How does it work?

Uber doesn’t own any cars, they have taken away the idea of ownership, and instead rely on drivers to sign up using their own cars. In cities where Uber operates, anyone with the app is able to request a ride. To start using Uber as a passenger you have to create an account and set up your preferred payment method, such as a valid credit card or by linking your PayPal account. This allows for a cash free environment.

Whenever you need a ride simply open the app, either set your pickup location as current location or enter a pickup address, set your destination address, pick which car you would like, and tap confirm.

Using GPS, it detects your location and connects you with the nearest driver. For users, it is a means of getting from A to B easily. It is convenient, inexpensive and safe. For drivers, it allows you to be your own boss, work as much or as little as you want and earn a nominal wage; all in the comfort of your own vehicle.

Uber doesn’t own any cars

How much does Uber cost?

Each ride has a base fare and a per-minute and per-mile charge is added on top. Every city has a different price and prices will vary at different times in the day. Fare estimates can be quoted in advance through the app. An important part of Uber’s pricing model is surge pricing. In short, Uber raises its prices in peaks times to offset the increasing demand for rides and upkeep the supply of drivers. Since rates are dynamic, charges will vary based on demand and supply.

UberEATs

Uber has branched out into food delivery in the UK, launching a food delivery service called UberEats, which is a separate app. By logging in to your Uber account you can order any kind of food you want. When you’re ready to order you’ll see a total that includes the food and delivery price, you pay with your Uber account and you are able to track your order on the site as it comes to you.

Future of Uber

Uber Movements has tracked every single Uber ride and put it on a map. They have been able to discover patterns and analyse the impact of events, rush hours and road closures in cities worldwide. They have generated huge amounts of data which they are freely giving to governments for urban planning. This will allow city officials, for example, to measure the impact of road improvements, major events and transit lines. Planners and policymakers can analyse transportation patterns, and make smart investments on future infrastructure projects. The data will also be available to everyone which will give important insights and ideas with open data for all.