User Requirements and Willingness To Pay for Traffic Information Systems: Case Study of Sydney, Australia

Abstract

The field of information provision to motorists has seen remarkable technological innovations in recent years. These techniques are generally classified under advanced traveler information systems (ATISs). These systems are designed to bring travel time savings and congestion alleviation to commuters. In the context of determining who will use this information system, what types of information are required, and how traffic information affects traveler behavior, the user needs and preferences derived from a survey of commuters in Sydney, Australia are described. The attitudinal survey has examined driver attitudes toward radio traffic information systems in particular. It is seen that drivers thought of radio traffic information systems as generally accurate. Drivers revealed that information on dynamic conditions such as traffic entities and road accidents is more desired than information on relatively static conditions such as alternative routes. On the aspect of technology preference, radio has overwhelming support as the preferred delivery system compared with computers and telephones. The results of an analysis of willingness to pay for information are similar to findings from overseas. This particular analysis has been based on an ordered probit model that shows the significance of information system attributes and commuter demographics.