Box – INFORMING THE PUBLIC 1981

Description

Fare reductions are helping to bring passengers back to buses, but the article argues that effective marketing and clear publicity are equally important to regain occasional travellers. Many operators still fail to provide adequate information or destination displays, assuming regulars know the times and neglecting infrequent users. In contrast, numerous firms and local authorities have produced timetable books, leaflets and route maps—though rising costs have led to fewer maps and a shift from bulky timetable books to individual leaflets that can be kept current. Timetable presentation is also changing toward simple departure lists with journey times, and some operators use am/pm formats to avoid confusion over the 24‑hour clock. Examples of map design are discussed: West Yorkshire’s large map is unwieldy, while London Transport’s new central map is praised for clarity despite overcomplication and confusing colour coding. Overall, awareness of the need for clear passenger information has increased, but availability and marketing still need improvement if bus services are to prosper.