Evaluating the Perceptions and Behaviors of Ali-Scout Users in a NaturalisticSetting

摘要

The purpose of this User Perceptions and Behaviors evaluation component of FAST-TRAC is to understand how users perceive and value the in-vehicle navigation system, Ali-Scout, and to determine how the system is used in the Oakland County study area. Specifically, the authors want to know whether the system helps drivers navigate and reduces their travel times, whether drivers like all or parts of the system, their beliefs about the costs and benefits of the system, whether they would purchase the navigation system, and if so, what they would be willing to pay for it. Importantly, this study also assesses the differential effects on perceived Ali-Scout system utility of providing 'static; contrasted with 'dynamic' route guidance advice to users. The study took place between July 1995 and December 1996 and included a total of 369 subjects with Ali-Scout units installed in vehicle they were driving. The general procedure followed for each subject's participation was: recruitment, participation in a short training session, distribution of a set of training materials developed for the project, and driving the Ali-Scout equipped vehicle. The subjects were twice asked to complete a survey, the first one month after Ali-Scout installation (during the time period covered by 'static' route guidance advice), and the second during the time period covered by 'dynamic' route guidance advice. This report presents results from each of the two surveys and compares results from the static guidance period with those from the dynamic guidance period.