Implementing Real-Time Transit Information Systems: An Examination of Information Supply and Demand

This study evaluates the implementation of real-time transit information systems through an examination of information supply and demand, defined as the attitudes and experiences with real-time information of transit passengers and agencies, respectively. To gain an understanding of trends and patterns regarding RTTISs, web surveys were developed for both stakeholder groups and distributed through convenience sampling methods. For information demand, the most valued types of information were found to be about the location of the vehicle while the least valued information relates to characteristics of the vehicles, like seating availability. In terms of media preferences, smartphone applications were found to be the preferred medium for receiving information followed by Internet/websites and dynamic message signs. It was found that demographic and socioeconomic status influence preferences for real-time information. The information supply survey found that approximately 70 percent of agencies currently offer real-time information. The largest constraint to providing or improving RTTISs was found to be funding, followed by staffing needs. A comparison between the survey results found that the information currently being provided by transit agencies is mostly in line with the information most valued by transit passengers. The few differences that exist are generally because agencies do not provide information on the media preferred by passengers. To address these differences, several suggestions are made to improve the implementation of real-time information. This information can be used to better develop and prioritize investment in real-time information systems.

  • Supplemental Notes:
    • This paper was sponsored by TRB committee AP030 Standing Committee on Public Transportation Marketing and Fare Policy. Alternate title: Implementing Real-Time Transit Information Systems: Examination of Information Supply and Demand.
  • Corporate Authors:

    Transportation Research Board

    500 Fifth Street, NW
    Washington, DC  United States  20001
  • Authors:
    • Harmony, Xavier J
    • Gayah, Vikash V
  • Conference:
  • Date: 2017

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Media Type: Digital/other
  • Features: Figures; References;
  • Pagination: 22p
  • Monograph Title: TRB 96th Annual Meeting Compendium of Papers

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01623274
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Report/Paper Numbers: 17-00309
  • Files: TRIS, TRB, ATRI
  • Created Date: Jan 24 2017 3:31PM