GET YOUR BEARINGS
Plan your next City Bus Manager session
Our independent guide helps you refine every aspect of City Bus Manager, from map selection to staff optimization. By observing how each system interacts, you can craft a balanced operation that maximizes passenger satisfaction while keeping costs in check.
01 / THE GUIDE
Map Selection Strategy
Compare two cities of differing size and density. Note how route length and stop frequency affect passenger volume, then choose the city that aligns with your preferred complexity level.
- Compare your custom routes with the official layout to spot efficiency gains.
- Use the POI markers to place depots near high‑traffic areas for better passenger numbers.
02 / THE GUIDE
Depot Layout Optimization
Sketch multiple depot layouts placing maintenance, washing and staff facilities in various configurations. Observe travel distances for buses returning for service and select the arrangement that minimizes idle time.
- Place maintenance stations close to garages to reduce bus travel time for repairs.
- Balance staff facilities with operational spaces to keep employee satisfaction high.

03 / THE GUIDE
Fleet Composition Analysis
Create a small fleet using both high‑capacity and low‑capacity bus models. Track occupancy rates on each route and adjust the mix to achieve the best balance between cost and passenger coverage.
- Mix different bus capacities to match route demand and avoid empty seats.
- Regularly schedule washing to maintain the clean‑bus requirement for passenger satisfaction.
04 / THE GUIDE
Staff Cost Balancing
Record salaries for each employee type and calculate total payroll versus revenue. Experiment with hiring fewer mechanics while increasing driver shifts to see the impact on downtime and profit.
- Prioritize hiring mechanics when you expand your fleet to reduce downtime.
- Monitor staff costs relative to revenue to avoid overspending during growth phases.
05 / THE GUIDE
Service Center Placement Impact
Move the Service Center to different depot entrances and monitor ticket sales and review scores. Identify the spot that yields the highest customer engagement without disrupting other operations.
- Locate the Service Center near the main entrance to increase ticket sales visibility.
- Use passenger reviews from the Service Center to identify routes needing improvement.




