Current methods for obtaining information about multi-mode travel by public transport are deficient in a number of respects. It has been shown that if undertaken, multi-mode journeys can lead to shorter journey times, fewer interchanges and more trip-opportunites being available. This can be of benefit to the travelling public and operators alike. Software has been produced at the laboratory to generate this type of travel information. The output produced by the computer programs underwent a ten month trial in the travel enquiry bureaus and libraries of three towns in Wiltshire from which the information on travel was disseminated to a number of destinations in and around the county. Because of the difficulty of obtaining quantitative data on changes in travel behaviour patterns, patronage or rate of use of the guide, it was only possible to assess its benefits by means of attitudinal surveys of the travel clerks, librarians, their management and public transport users. Despite publicity during the trials, little interest was shown in the guide by the public which resulted in the clerks becoming unfamiliar in the use of the microfiche-based system. Possible reasons for this are examined in the report together with possible improvements that could have been incorporated to increase its acceptability. (Author/publisher)
Abstract