Multisystems Inc – STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVED TRAVELER INFORMATION 2003

Description

TCRP Report 92 reviews transit traveler information (TTI), documenting rapid technology advances (AVL/GPS, wireless, PDAs, Internet, DMS), growing deployments, and rising customer expectations for integrated, multimodal, real-time and pre‑trip information. Using literature review, surveys, case studies and cross‑industry interviews, it finds travelers—especially “choice” riders—value timely, honest delay notices, detailed route/stop data and itinerary planning; agencies often emphasize internal operations over customer dissemination. TTI is categorized as pre‑trip, en‑route and in‑vehicle and relies on accurate underlying data (stop inventories, AVL), prediction algorithms, communications and diverse dissemination media (web, IVR, SMS, kiosks, signs). European systems (Countdown, TRIDENT, Infopolis) offer advanced integration models. Trials report higher satisfaction, reduced perceived wait times and modest ridership gains, though willingness to pay is mixed. The report recommends improving data quality and maintenance, cross‑modal and media integration using standards, personalized real‑time services, stronger dissemination, and accessibility to boost use and satisfaction.