The problems encountered and the issues raised in efforts to collect reliable and uniform operating and financial data from transit operators in California are detailed. The data was collected in an attempt to test the usefulness of performance indicators which were specified for criteria for evaluating public transit-performance. The problems discussed include those relating to why the data is not reported, the meaning of the data, and if the data is outdated. It is recommended that data requirements and data reporting channels be simplified. The required data items must be clearly defined and the generation techniques must be specified. It is noted that the area of data requirements, collection, and use, needs the combined and cooperative attention of the transit industry, government, and the research community.
Samenvatting