Overview
This report presents the results of a study on the deployment, use, and effect of real-time traveler information (TI) systems. The main goals were to understand agency dissemination practices, assess the potential effectiveness of TI systems as it relates to traveler perception and use, and suggest best practices for facilitation. It also provides several key outputs to be used by stakeholders: a) survey/interviews of agency representatives, b) surveys and focus groups with travelers to better understand the public’s perception/use of TI, c) database of survey responses, d) comparative analysis of agency and public perceptions, e) recommendations of methods for assessing TI, including a “toolbox” of low-cost approaches, f) guidance for features of an ideal TI system, g) discussion of future TI, including cutting edge technologies. Agencies and the public agree that TI should be targeted, easy to use, relevant, clear, trustworthy, reliable, and accurate. Interestingly, there was a call for simple information that can be accessed by most people in a variety of locations (e.g., radio). We recommend features of an effective TI system. First, there should be a provision of TI focusing on non-recurring events. Second, a wide array of dissemination methods should be implemented. Finally, TI should align with needs and wants of the public. The report also includes guidance on how agencies can facilitate TI in the future, taking advantage of new technologies, new dissemination methods, and public-private partnerships.