Transit market research using structural equation modeling and attitudinal market segmentation

Authors

Yoram Shiftan
Maren L. Outwater
Yushuang Zhou

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

2008

Subject Area

ridership - attitudes, mode - mass transit

Keywords

Utah, Travel behavior, Transit, Structural equation modeling, Socioeconomic factors, Socioeconomic aspects, Ridership, Public transit, Patronage (Transit ridership), Mental attitudes, Mass transit, Market segmented groups, Market research, Local transit, Case studies, Attitudes

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive approach for identifying potential transit markets and for developing strategies to increase public transport ridership. The approach uses structural equation modeling to identify simultaneously travelers' attitudes, travel behavior, and the causal relationships between a traveler's socioeconomic profile and his/her attitude toward travel. Travel attitudes are also used to identify distinct market segments and to develop plans that best serve the needs of each segment and increase transit ridership. The approach is demonstrated with a case study from the Utah Transit Authority.

Comments

Transport Policy Home Page: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/0967070X

Recommended Citation

Shiftan, Yoram, Outwater, Maren, Zhou, Yushuang. (2008). Transit market research using structural equation modeling and attitudinal market segmentation. Transport Policy, Volume 15, Issue 3, pp 186-195.