An Arguement for Real Time Data for Buses
This article presents an interesting proposition that the key to increasing transit ridership is knowing who holds the power. When a user only has a predetermined schedule to work with, they can only speculate as to whether or not the bus will arrive soon, or if they’ve already missed it. This is enough to make any transit user feel absolutely powerless.
By putting real time bus data into the user’s hands by means of a mobile app), some of the power is transferred back to the user. They now know exactly how far away the bus is, and what time it is likely to arrive.
This article mentions a study which showed that after using real time bus data apps, 92% of transit users were “somewhat more” or “much more” satisfied with public transportation. Looks like a great way to improve attitudes!
Beyond the Automobile 