Would any Facebook and/or Google employees mind sharing how their company-sponsored bus system works (e.g. do you get a reservation/boarding pass, how are walk-ons handled, etc.)? Bonus points if in the Seattle/Puget Sound area! Microsoft’s bus system (aka the Connector) in Redmond can be AWFUL for certain routes. No order or organization, it’s always just a mass hysteria when the bus arrives. We have alleged “reservations” but if your route/time is remotely popular, a lot of times you’re SOL. Anyway, just interested to see if our competitors are better when it comes to commuting perks too 👀 Not sure if any other companies (in the Seattle area) do buses, I only mentioned these two because they’re the only ones I’m aware of, but please chime in if so!
Can only comment from the Bay Area but I doubt Seattle is different. No reservations. Fixed route/schedule that is vaguely on-time but pretty wild during rush hour. App to see current bus location. Never had any issue getting on a bus personally, but I did mostly avoid peak just because it could be 1.5 hours instead of 55 minutes. Just scan your badge. Process for forgotten badge varies but usually fine.
Heard you get Uber/Lyft voucher if your shuttle is too full to take you (hasn't been close to happening for my route). Also have had someone sit next to me I think once in about a month and a half of interning
You as in Microsoft? Psht, no that is not true. It’s true that we get “Guaranteed Ride Home” vouchers but those aren’t intended to be used for this purpose. I also think this money comes out from your own team’s budget (so you’re less inclined to use it), and there’s an ANNUAL limit of 6 rides LOL.
Also, could you clarify your location?
FB Seattle shuttles run to several places in Seattle and the east side. Employees also get monthly $200 lyft shared ride credit.
Google here. We have an app to track the buses’ location and number of passengers. Stops all over the city. Badge to get on the bus.
No reservations. We just scan our badges when we walk on.
So first come first serve then? Does that usually mean people at later stops usually don’t get spots?
I’ve never had to share a seat with anyone ever till now.