ABSTRACT
For a public transport service to be used, the public must know where and when the service is provided. This chapter explores the importance of market information to consumers and assesses the role of high-quality information as a key enabler of successful transport service provision. A recurring theme is the critical role of smart technology. The chapter considers why consumers (i.e. passengers) need information and explores the role of 'perfect information' in the context of the market for local public transport and the specific information requirements of public transport users, taking account of the challenges posed by the deregulation and privatisation of bus services in Great Britain. It contrasts approaches to the provision of public transport information via traditional media and the possibilities offered by the use of smart technology in public transport markets. The chapter describes the development of journey planners and the emerging role of social media and its contribution towards smarter journey planning.
