Inclusive On-Demand Public Transport: exploring user needs and possible solutions

Purpose and goal:

On-demand transport, whereby trips are ordered by passengers without a fixed schedule, is gaining popularity as an alternative to personal cars, especially in low-demand and specific areas. However, current technologically enhanced solutions face challenges, notably understanding user needs and habits. This project aims to explore on-demand services in rural and suburban contexts, using a mix of research methods to create inclusive guidelines for both users and providers.

Expected results and effects:

The project aims to understand the perceptions of on-demand service usage as well as on-demand service development and implementation by using bottom up and top-down approaches. A special attention will be paid to users whose current expectations are not met by dynamic transportation. Overall, the project aims to provide guidelines and recommendations to create a proof-of-concept for an inclusive, usable on-demand solution in smaller towns, suburbs, and rural areas, promoting sustainable travel habits and user well-being.

Approach and implementation: The project activities are planned over one year and are divided into 4 main work packages: WP1 Exploration of On-Demand Services in the Scandinavian Context (1st Nov 23 to 31st Jan 24);

WP2 Understanding user behavior, needs, and expectations: the bottom-up approach (15th Jan to 30th Apr 24); WP3 Understanding potentials and challenges for development & implementation of inclusive On-Demand Solution: the top-down approach (1st Feb to 31st May 24) and, WP4 Co-Designing On-Demand solutions (1st Jun to 30th Nov 24).