Transport and Travel Research Ltd – BUS PASSENGER INFORMATION STUDY 1994

Description

This 1994 TRL report examines bus passenger information after UK deregulation. Before 1986 information was stable and coordinated; deregulation made information competitive, fragmented and often inadequate, with operators focusing on marketing and relying on PTEs/county councils to supply wider information. The study’s objectives were to identify valued information types, gaps, good practice, deterrents to bus use, and cost-effective improvements. Methodology comprised three phases: 1,250 household interviews across Greater Manchester, West Midlands, Hertfordshire and North Yorkshire; design of improved systems; and 717 hall-test interviews including comprehension trials. Key findings: passengers prioritize service frequency, departure times, service numbers and interchange details, preferring printed timetables (home/work), telephone lines and at-stop information but desire data at all journey stages. Real-time and on-board displays are widely valued, especially in rural counties. Printed timetables need clearer layout (one route per sheet, full times, larger type). Willingness to pay is higher for optional in-home/in-street services but low for added fare charges to fund at-stop real-time displays. High-quality, reliable information is critical because poor information deters users.