Introducing the Open Signaling Initiative

Railway and metro signaling is entering a new era; one defined by openness, flexibility, and collaboration. In June 2025, Prover launched the Open Signaling Initiative, a dedicated hub for the growing Open Signaling Initiative. The goal is simple: empower infrastructure managers, system integrators, hardware and software suppliers, and safety assessors to work together in reshaping how signaling systems are built, operated, and maintained.

With openness at its core, the initiative drives innovation, enhances long-term sustainability, and gives industry players the flexibility they need to meet future demands.

The need for a more open approach

Today, most signaling systems are delivered as closed, monolithic packages. Many infrastructure managers are seeking solutions based on open signaling principles and standardisation. When existing monolithic systems reach end-of-life, they’re often replaced in one costly leap, a practice that has become the industry norm. The result: high expenses and limited flexibility, slowing down innovation.

Historically, signaling systems were built from off-the-shelf components that any qualified engineer could replace or modify. The Open Signaling Initiative restores that openness while embracing the power of modern, computer-based systems.

Principles of open signaling

Already in use across several projects, the open signaling approach is built on three key principles:

• Open interfaces
  Use of standard communication protocols such as OPC UA, MQTT, and EULYNX/RaSTA, along with data formats like railML, to ensure interoperability.
• Loosely coupled components
  Separation of platform and logic allows individual components to be swapped out without affecting the entire system.
• COTS hardware
  Commercial-off-the-shelf platforms offer cost-efficiency and long-term flexibility.

What does it mean for the railway industry?

With open signaling, infrastructure managers can remain in control. They can reduce risk, modernize systems incrementally, and avoid the disruption and cost of “big bang” replacements.

Systems built on open signaling principles deliver:

• Greater flexibility in procurement
• Easier safety assurance through formal verification
• Long-term sustainability through obsolescence management
• A broader ecosystem of suppliers and integrators

Prover’s role

Prover supports the Open Signaling Initiative through tools and processes grounded in formal methods. Our Signaling Design Automation (SDA) process includes:

• Specification writing using formal logic
• Developing application logic directly from verified specifications
• Platform-independent code generation
• Performing formal verification to support your safety case

Our tools meet CENELEC EN 50716/50128 SIL 4 requirements and have been proven in multiple high-integrity signaling projects.

How do I get involved and get the benefits of the Open Signaling Initiative?

Visit the Open Signaling Initiative to explore how the initiative can benefit your organization. Learn more about the approach, see who’s already contributing, and discover how you can take part.

Whether you’re working to modernize aging relay-based systems or developing next-generation technology, your involvement matters. Join us in making signaling more open, collaborative, and future-ready.

Let’s build a more open future together

The Open Signaling Initiative offers a clear roadmap for gradual, controlled change. It’s about creating a signaling ecosystem that’s modular, flexible, and built to evolve – much like modern IT systems. This shift gives infrastructure managers and technology providers greater freedom of choice, encourages innovation, and supports long-term sustainability.

A more open future isn’t just a vision, it’s already in motion.

Discover how you can contribute at www.opensignaling.org.