Balcombe and Vance – INFORMATION FOR BUS PASSENGERS 1996

Description

This 1993 TRL literature review synthesises UK and international research on information for bus users. Most work is qualitative; quantitative evidence is limited and often unpublished. Key findings: passengers have diverse information needs so one format rarely fits all. Bus-stop information is widely valued—Durham’s early scheme boosted use but declined after deregulation, while Grampian improved stop displays through user-focused design. Timetable formats (leaflets, booklets, reflected layouts) and route maps provoke debate; no consensus on best practice. The 12- versus 24-hour clock remains contentious. Phone enquiry lines, travel information centres and computerised services (e.g., Teleride) are effective and cost-beneficial; VDUs and real-time displays show promise but raise usability, vandalism and cost concerns. Marketing and leaflet distribution can generate revenue yet are under-resourced; methods for effective distribution and on-site display are under-researched. The review concludes that rapidly advancing technology will shift resources from paper to interactive and real-time systems, and recommends liaison with contemporary practitioners for up-to-date insights.