The parking industry is buzzing with futuristic ideas, but most facilities still rely on fundamentals that matter today. While LPR, EVs, and micromobility will shape tomorrow, managers must stay focused on identifying every car, collecting every dollar, and running efficient operations now. Preparing for the future starts with mastering the basics in the present.

As smart cities blur the lines between public, private, and government data control, Dubai’s new MoU between Dubai Police and Parkin PJSC highlights the growing integration of mobility, technology, and privacy. With IoT adoption accelerating globally, the parking industry sits at the center of a major transformation — one that raises urgent questions about efficiency, accountability, and the future of connected urban infrastructure.

Richard Easley’s journey—from college dropout to national ITS leader—reveals the power of grit, awareness, and humility. His career shows how transportation, parking, and technology are deeply interconnected, and why diversity and listening to others matter. Richard’s message is simple: stay curious, know what you don’t know, and design systems that work for everyone.