Supporting rural public transport users during disruptions1 :The role of real time information

摘要

High quality real-time passenger information provision is an important factor in supportingpublic transport use. Real time information is particularly useful for travellers in the event ofservice disruption. The role of real time information in supporting travellers during servicedisruption is poorly understood, particularly in rural areas. In this paper we first illustrate andcategorise travel disruptions. Real time passenger information (RTPI) requirements - particularlyfor rural public transport users - are then identified for each stage and type of disruption throughinterviews and focus groups with rural passengers. Also patterns of passenger behaviour duringtravel and transport disruptions are identified. In the light of this research a conceptual model ofthe recovery phases of disruption is presented to align the RTPI requirements for each recoveryphase of disruption. The evaluation of the model through a series of focus groups and interviewswith passengers, transport service providers, and government agencies is then discussed. Thepaper concludes by suggesting necessary advances in digital technologies for RTPI systems tosupport public transport users during disruptions.