Transforming Urban Mobility: A Decade of Collaboration between FedEx and WRI
Introducing Brazil: A Nation on the Rise!
In 2007, an exciting announcement echoed through the vibrant streets of Brazil - the country had been chosen as the prestigious host of the 2014 World Cup. With a population approaching 200 million and an impressive doubling of its GDP since 2000, Brazil was undeniably a force to be reckoned with. But that was just the beginning of its journey to global prominence.
Only two years later, the spotlight shone once again on this remarkable nation as it secured the honor of hosting the 2016 Olympics, marking a historic moment as the first South American country to stage the games. As the anticipation grew, so did the realization that Brazil's urban mobility infrastructure faced critical challenges. It was time to turn limitations into opportunities.
Embracing the future, Brazil seized the moment and embraced Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), a revolutionary public transportation system that had already proven its worth in the sustainability-minded city of Curitiba, Brazil. Today, BRT systems are hailed for their ability to deliver fast, comfortable, and cost-effective services to cities worldwide. Surprisingly, they can be implemented in just a fraction of the time and at less than half the budget of traditional rail-based solutions.
In the bustling metropolis of Rio de Janeiro, the host city for the Olympics, the rapid expansion of BRT became a game-changer. It not only provided the essential transportation infrastructure required for the games but also left a lasting legacy for the city's residents. Across the vast expanse of Brazil, the impact of the World Cup also reverberated, leaving a mark on each host city in its own unique way.
However, this incredible feat was far from simple. With various fare-funded public transit systems scattered across the Brazilian landscape, each operated differently, from the types of buses employed to rider communications and the integration of cutting-edge technology. Unfortunately, feedback from riders and government entities was mostly anecdotal, offering little actionable insight to improve service quality.
But change was on the horizon. As the curtain rose on a new era of transportation, Brazil sought to transform its bus systems, elevating them to new heights of efficiency, reliability, and convenience. With a relentless pursuit of excellence, agencies aimed to revolutionize the way people moved within their communities, empowering citizens and visitors alike.
Now, as the road ahead unfolds, Brazil stands ready to make history once more. With its remarkable sporting events in the rearview mirror, the nation's commitment to enhancing urban mobility remains steadfast. Brace yourselves, because the future of transportation is about to arrive in Brazil, propelling us toward a more connected and accessible world.
Unleashing the Power of Quality: FedEx Leads the Way in Brazil
When it comes to delivering excellence, even a giant like FedEx faced a common challenge shared by many transit agencies in Brazil - how to elevate the quality of service across their systems and establish a universal language and toolkit for continuous improvement. Out of this pressing need, a game-changing solution was born: Quality Driven Management (QDM), the FedEx process designed to revolutionize quality across the entire enterprise. Our Chairman, Fred Smith, summed it up perfectly:
"With QDM, we will raise the bar for quality across our entire enterprise. For the first time, we will unite under a common language, utilizing the same tools and metrics to identify the root causes of issues and plan effective corrective actions. QDM is FedEx's commitment to managing our business in a way that propels quality and brand loyalty to unprecedented heights." - Fred Smith, FedEx Founder & Chairman
In 2012, two years prior to the World Cup, a groundbreaking collaboration was forged between WRI (World Resources Institute) and FedEx - the birth of the prestigious "Fellows" program. The mission was clear: identify talented professionals within WRI's transportation group who could leverage FedEx's expertise in customer service, operational efficiencies, marketing, driver safety, vehicle maintenance, and the procurement of eco-friendly vehicles, among other essential areas. Six outstanding WRI fellows were handpicked for this extraordinary opportunity, embarking on a transformative journey to FedEx's esteemed headquarters in Memphis.
During an immersive week of intensive training, these exceptional individuals had the privilege of learning directly from FedEx executives. They delved into the intricate workings of a global leader, acquiring invaluable insights and skills to shape the future of transportation in Brazil. The program offered an unprecedented platform for knowledge exchange, fueling innovation and nurturing the seeds of progress.
Through this unparalleled alliance between WRI and FedEx, a new generation of transportation pioneers emerged. Equipped with a deep understanding of customer-centricity, operational excellence, marketing strategies, safety protocols, sustainability, and more, these Fellows are poised to make a lasting impact on Brazil's transportation landscape. Their collective expertise, coupled with the legacy of QDM, will shape a future where efficiency and quality reign supreme.
As the journey continues, FedEx remains committed to blazing a trail of unparalleled service and innovation. With QDM as our compass and the collaborative spirit of the Fellows program as our driving force, we are propelling Brazil towards a brighter future, one where quality knows no boundaries. Prepare to witness a transformation like never before as FedEx and its partners redefine excellence, setting new benchmarks for the entire industry to follow.
Unleashing the Power of Quality: QualiOnibus Transforms Brazilian Transit
Amidst the extraordinary cohort of Fellows in 2012 stood Cristina Albuquerque, now the esteemed Manager of Urban Mobility at WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities in Brasil. With a profound understanding of QDM's principles and processes, Cristina recognized their potential to address a critical challenge plaguing bus transit systems - the need for consistent and improved service quality across agencies nationwide. The lack of a unified framework, varying metrics, methodologies, and processes hindered progress, limiting the ability to learn from other cities and establish a common language throughout the country.
Inspired by the transformative power of QDM, a groundbreaking initiative took flight that same year - QualiOnibus. Initially launched with seven forward-thinking Brazilian cities, its mission was clear: to create a QDM-like framework tailored to the unique needs of bus transit agencies across the nation. Within a remarkably short span of one year, WRI crafted a comprehensive toolkit that drove consistent service improvement processes, setting the stage for a remarkable journey of transformation.
Today, QualiOnibus stands tall, encompassing an impressive roster of 30 Brazilian bus-transit agencies, with a waiting list eagerly yearning to join its ranks. Despite the diverse systems, routes, and service demands, these agencies now unite under a shared vision - the relentless pursuit of quality in every facet of bus transit. Together, they strive to elevate the customer experience, identify operational and safety enhancements, showcase best practices from different cities, and cultivate an ecosystem of continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
With a laser focus on quality factors, QualiOnibus champions the transformation of bus transit, enriching the lives of Brazilians across the nation. Reliability takes center stage, ensuring passengers board and reach their destinations punctually. Access becomes effortless, empowering individuals to navigate transit systems seamlessly. Travel times are optimized, showcasing the time-saving advantages of public transport over private vehicles. Comfort reigns supreme, with well-equipped bus stops and a commitment to prevent overcrowding. Safety is prioritized, with well-illuminated stops and a system that fosters a sense of security among riders. Information becomes readily available, with comprehensive maps, effective communications, and intuitive wayfinding to guide passengers through the system.
The incredible work of QualiOnibus extends beyond mere transit improvements. It showcases the powerful collaboration between pioneering entities like FedEx and influential organizations like WRI, united in their commitment to drive investments and generate positive impacts in social, financial, and environmental spheres within rapidly growing global cities. As QualiOnibus continues to shape the future of bus transit, its ripple effects resonate far and wide, illuminating a path towards a brighter, more connected, and sustainable world.
Prepare to witness a transformation of epic proportions as QualiOnibus leaves an indelible mark on the landscape of Brazilian transportation, one city at a time. Brace yourselves for a future where quality, progress, and collaboration converge, forging a legacy that transcends boundaries and inspires generations to come.
A Decade of Collaboration: FedEx and WRI Driving Transformation Together
Reflecting on a remarkable ten-year journey of collaboration, Cristina Albuquerque of WRI shares the profound value that the partnership with FedEx continues to deliver for WRI and the bus transit agencies they support. With heartfelt appreciation, she acknowledges the company's unwavering commitment to sharing resources and best practices, propelling transportation improvements in our most congested cities. Together, they are reshaping the landscape of urban mobility, benefiting both the shareholders of FedEx and the stakeholders within the vibrant communities they serve.
The impact of this collaboration extends far beyond the realm of transportation. It is a testament to the power of collective action, where companies, NGOs, and communities unite to create shared value. As the roads become less crowded with cars, precious time is reclaimed for commuters and delivery drivers alike, liberated from the shackles of traffic congestion.
With each milestone achieved, the shared vision of creating tangible impacts materializes. FedEx, WRI, and their dedicated partners are shaping a future where every journey is smoother, more efficient, and less burdensome. Through their united efforts, they are unlocking the true potential of transportation, improving the lives of individuals and bolstering the prosperity of the communities they touch.
As they embark on the next decade of collaboration, the gratitude is profound. The collective achievements fuel their shared determination to overcome new challenges and break new ground. Together, FedEx and WRI are poised to redefine the boundaries of what is possible, creating a lasting legacy that transforms not only transportation but also the very fabric of our global society.
With unwavering enthusiasm, they eagerly anticipate the boundless achievements that lie ahead, confident that their collaboration will continue to deliver remarkable results. Brace yourselves for a future where innovation, shared value, and social impact converge, illuminating the path toward a brighter and more sustainable world for generations to come.
In 2007, an exciting announcement echoed through the vibrant streets of Brazil - the country had been chosen as the prestigious host of the 2014 World Cup. With a population approaching 200 million and an impressive doubling of its GDP since 2000, Brazil was undeniably a force to be reckoned with. But that was just the beginning of its journey to global prominence.
Only two years later, the spotlight shone once again on this remarkable nation as it secured the honor of hosting the 2016 Olympics, marking a historic moment as the first South American country to stage the games. As the anticipation grew, so did the realization that Brazil's urban mobility infrastructure faced critical challenges. It was time to turn limitations into opportunities.
Embracing the future, Brazil seized the moment and embraced Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), a revolutionary public transportation system that had already proven its worth in the sustainability-minded city of Curitiba, Brazil. Today, BRT systems are hailed for their ability to deliver fast, comfortable, and cost-effective services to cities worldwide. Surprisingly, they can be implemented in just a fraction of the time and at less than half the budget of traditional rail-based solutions.
In the bustling metropolis of Rio de Janeiro, the host city for the Olympics, the rapid expansion of BRT became a game-changer. It not only provided the essential transportation infrastructure required for the games but also left a lasting legacy for the city's residents. Across the vast expanse of Brazil, the impact of the World Cup also reverberated, leaving a mark on each host city in its own unique way.
However, this incredible feat was far from simple. With various fare-funded public transit systems scattered across the Brazilian landscape, each operated differently, from the types of buses employed to rider communications and the integration of cutting-edge technology. Unfortunately, feedback from riders and government entities was mostly anecdotal, offering little actionable insight to improve service quality.
But change was on the horizon. As the curtain rose on a new era of transportation, Brazil sought to transform its bus systems, elevating them to new heights of efficiency, reliability, and convenience. With a relentless pursuit of excellence, agencies aimed to revolutionize the way people moved within their communities, empowering citizens and visitors alike.
Now, as the road ahead unfolds, Brazil stands ready to make history once more. With its remarkable sporting events in the rearview mirror, the nation's commitment to enhancing urban mobility remains steadfast. Brace yourselves, because the future of transportation is about to arrive in Brazil, propelling us toward a more connected and accessible world.
Unleashing the Power of Quality: FedEx Leads the Way in Brazil
When it comes to delivering excellence, even a giant like FedEx faced a common challenge shared by many transit agencies in Brazil - how to elevate the quality of service across their systems and establish a universal language and toolkit for continuous improvement. Out of this pressing need, a game-changing solution was born: Quality Driven Management (QDM), the FedEx process designed to revolutionize quality across the entire enterprise. Our Chairman, Fred Smith, summed it up perfectly:
"With QDM, we will raise the bar for quality across our entire enterprise. For the first time, we will unite under a common language, utilizing the same tools and metrics to identify the root causes of issues and plan effective corrective actions. QDM is FedEx's commitment to managing our business in a way that propels quality and brand loyalty to unprecedented heights." - Fred Smith, FedEx Founder & Chairman
In 2012, two years prior to the World Cup, a groundbreaking collaboration was forged between WRI (World Resources Institute) and FedEx - the birth of the prestigious "Fellows" program. The mission was clear: identify talented professionals within WRI's transportation group who could leverage FedEx's expertise in customer service, operational efficiencies, marketing, driver safety, vehicle maintenance, and the procurement of eco-friendly vehicles, among other essential areas. Six outstanding WRI fellows were handpicked for this extraordinary opportunity, embarking on a transformative journey to FedEx's esteemed headquarters in Memphis.
During an immersive week of intensive training, these exceptional individuals had the privilege of learning directly from FedEx executives. They delved into the intricate workings of a global leader, acquiring invaluable insights and skills to shape the future of transportation in Brazil. The program offered an unprecedented platform for knowledge exchange, fueling innovation and nurturing the seeds of progress.
Through this unparalleled alliance between WRI and FedEx, a new generation of transportation pioneers emerged. Equipped with a deep understanding of customer-centricity, operational excellence, marketing strategies, safety protocols, sustainability, and more, these Fellows are poised to make a lasting impact on Brazil's transportation landscape. Their collective expertise, coupled with the legacy of QDM, will shape a future where efficiency and quality reign supreme.
As the journey continues, FedEx remains committed to blazing a trail of unparalleled service and innovation. With QDM as our compass and the collaborative spirit of the Fellows program as our driving force, we are propelling Brazil towards a brighter future, one where quality knows no boundaries. Prepare to witness a transformation like never before as FedEx and its partners redefine excellence, setting new benchmarks for the entire industry to follow.
Unleashing the Power of Quality: QualiOnibus Transforms Brazilian Transit
Amidst the extraordinary cohort of Fellows in 2012 stood Cristina Albuquerque, now the esteemed Manager of Urban Mobility at WRI Ross Center for Sustainable Cities in Brasil. With a profound understanding of QDM's principles and processes, Cristina recognized their potential to address a critical challenge plaguing bus transit systems - the need for consistent and improved service quality across agencies nationwide. The lack of a unified framework, varying metrics, methodologies, and processes hindered progress, limiting the ability to learn from other cities and establish a common language throughout the country.
Inspired by the transformative power of QDM, a groundbreaking initiative took flight that same year - QualiOnibus. Initially launched with seven forward-thinking Brazilian cities, its mission was clear: to create a QDM-like framework tailored to the unique needs of bus transit agencies across the nation. Within a remarkably short span of one year, WRI crafted a comprehensive toolkit that drove consistent service improvement processes, setting the stage for a remarkable journey of transformation.
Today, QualiOnibus stands tall, encompassing an impressive roster of 30 Brazilian bus-transit agencies, with a waiting list eagerly yearning to join its ranks. Despite the diverse systems, routes, and service demands, these agencies now unite under a shared vision - the relentless pursuit of quality in every facet of bus transit. Together, they strive to elevate the customer experience, identify operational and safety enhancements, showcase best practices from different cities, and cultivate an ecosystem of continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
With a laser focus on quality factors, QualiOnibus champions the transformation of bus transit, enriching the lives of Brazilians across the nation. Reliability takes center stage, ensuring passengers board and reach their destinations punctually. Access becomes effortless, empowering individuals to navigate transit systems seamlessly. Travel times are optimized, showcasing the time-saving advantages of public transport over private vehicles. Comfort reigns supreme, with well-equipped bus stops and a commitment to prevent overcrowding. Safety is prioritized, with well-illuminated stops and a system that fosters a sense of security among riders. Information becomes readily available, with comprehensive maps, effective communications, and intuitive wayfinding to guide passengers through the system.
The incredible work of QualiOnibus extends beyond mere transit improvements. It showcases the powerful collaboration between pioneering entities like FedEx and influential organizations like WRI, united in their commitment to drive investments and generate positive impacts in social, financial, and environmental spheres within rapidly growing global cities. As QualiOnibus continues to shape the future of bus transit, its ripple effects resonate far and wide, illuminating a path towards a brighter, more connected, and sustainable world.
Prepare to witness a transformation of epic proportions as QualiOnibus leaves an indelible mark on the landscape of Brazilian transportation, one city at a time. Brace yourselves for a future where quality, progress, and collaboration converge, forging a legacy that transcends boundaries and inspires generations to come.
A Decade of Collaboration: FedEx and WRI Driving Transformation Together
Reflecting on a remarkable ten-year journey of collaboration, Cristina Albuquerque of WRI shares the profound value that the partnership with FedEx continues to deliver for WRI and the bus transit agencies they support. With heartfelt appreciation, she acknowledges the company's unwavering commitment to sharing resources and best practices, propelling transportation improvements in our most congested cities. Together, they are reshaping the landscape of urban mobility, benefiting both the shareholders of FedEx and the stakeholders within the vibrant communities they serve.
The impact of this collaboration extends far beyond the realm of transportation. It is a testament to the power of collective action, where companies, NGOs, and communities unite to create shared value. As the roads become less crowded with cars, precious time is reclaimed for commuters and delivery drivers alike, liberated from the shackles of traffic congestion.
With each milestone achieved, the shared vision of creating tangible impacts materializes. FedEx, WRI, and their dedicated partners are shaping a future where every journey is smoother, more efficient, and less burdensome. Through their united efforts, they are unlocking the true potential of transportation, improving the lives of individuals and bolstering the prosperity of the communities they touch.
As they embark on the next decade of collaboration, the gratitude is profound. The collective achievements fuel their shared determination to overcome new challenges and break new ground. Together, FedEx and WRI are poised to redefine the boundaries of what is possible, creating a lasting legacy that transforms not only transportation but also the very fabric of our global society.
With unwavering enthusiasm, they eagerly anticipate the boundless achievements that lie ahead, confident that their collaboration will continue to deliver remarkable results. Brace yourselves for a future where innovation, shared value, and social impact converge, illuminating the path toward a brighter and more sustainable world for generations to come.
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