A survey-based methodology to determine information requirements for advanced traveler information systems

This paper discusses three nationwide surveys designed to obtain user information requirements for an advanced traveler information system (ATIS) and the ATIS portion of commercial vehicle operations (CVO). A description of the survey methodology for targeting the three populations-private vehicle drivers, commercial vehicle drivers, and commercial vehicle operators-is provided, as well as the implications for the design of ATIS based on driving behavior and preference. Analysis of the data from the 1,610 returned surveys revealed that commercial drivers and private drivers valued road and traffic information as the most important ATIS service, whereas commercial vehicle operators (or dispatchers) valued the ability to have two-way communication as most important. This study also revealed that dispatchers were willing to pay significantly more for an ATIS than drivers. Finally, the data indicated that, of the four main nationwide geographical areas considered in the survey, no differences in response to the survey questions were observed. Implications of the results for the design of ATIS are discussed.