Features of Traffic and Transit Internet Sites
Date Posted
06/04/2001
Identifier
2001-B00190
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Features of Traffic and Transit Internet Sites

Summary Information

This study examined the availability of desirable traffic and transit information on the internet. Public and private internet web sites with traffic and transit information were investigated to determine if the metropolitan or rural information they offered was desirable based on previously conducted customer satisfaction surveys (Customer Satisfaction Evaluations of The Puget Sound Traffic Conditions Web Site and Trailmaster, and The Greater Phoenix Travel Conditions Web Site, 1999). In order to evaluate the internet information available to the commuting public, 38 transit sites and 42 traffic sites were examined.

The 1999 survey indicated the following features were desirable:

Information on traffic internet sites:
    • The presence of a metro area map.
    • Real-time traffic information beyond the metro area.
    • Incident information.
    • Real-time camera views.
    • The presence of a metro area map supporting point-and-click inquiries for traffic conditions.
    • Prevailing speeds for highway segments.
    • Real-time travel times between markers.
    • Links to information about other modes of transportation or programs.
    • Special services.
    • Frequency of site updates.

Information on transit internet sites:
    • The presence of a system map.
    • The presence of a system map clearly showing transfer points.
    • The presence of a system map supporting point-and-click inquiries for transit status.
    • Links/information for the other transit authorities in the given metro area.
    • Real-time information.
    • Schedule and fare information.
    • Itinerary planning services.
    • Links to information about other modes of transportation.
    • Email link/address for customer feedback.
    • Telephone number for customer feedback.

RESULTS

The most sought-after traffic information is not available in most metropolitan areas of the country.

Private web sites have more features related to traffic information, and public sites have more features related to transit information.