Pulenat-Aballea and Tarrius – INFORMATION FOR BUS ROUTE USERS 1978

Description

This 1977–78 IRT study (140 residents in Nice and Le Mans) combined interviews, thematic and lexicometric analysis, and legibility tests of maps, route diagrams and brochures to evaluate public transport information. Operators concentrate narrowly on routes while users want broader city and facility information; distributed documents are little known and displayed maps often illegible. Many respondents struggle with symbols, codes, interchange rules and fares; passengers rely on drivers and inspectors as informal information sources but hesitate to ask them. Perceptions of networks reflect urban form, local politics and social divisions, with common confusions between operators and authorities and varied complaints about coordination, especially from suburban users. Demand priorities include network expansion, higher frequency, bus lanes, comfort, night and doorstep services, and concessions for needy riders. Knowledge of routes is uneven but often radial; stigma associates buses with the disadvantaged. Recommendations call for clearer fare/interchange information, improved symbols and legibility, rationalized distribution, frontline staff training and public familiarization.