The Next Era of Traveler Information

Overview

Due to the nature of today's technology, including information platforms like social media, it is increasingly difficult to plan, evaluate, operate, and enhance traveler information services because of limited resources, huge amounts of information and data, and rapidly changing dynamics. The purpose of this project is to help agencies understand how real-time traveler information is used, how that use is evolving and changing, and how the current trends impact said changes. There were 5 main areas of interest that were identified:

• Dissemination tools: using platforms like social media to understand the variety of options available to deliver information to the traveling public 
• Data management: exploring the requirements for data and the format specifications being developed by USDOT
• Cost management: Funding approaches, such as sponsorships, to optimize costs of operating the new and upcoming traveler information services were discussed via a peer exchange. 
• Customer needs: A discussion was held about how to best understand customer needs, including presenting the findings of a study done by NCHRP to understand the preferences of travelers when it comes to both information and services.
• Performance targets: a new program was established that will encourage states to do more research projects in order to progress towards national goals. 

Much of what was discussed for this project was done through webinars, which are also found on the webpage.