Project Description
PBA Transit undertook on-board surveys across a range of bus routes in Melbourne to provide trip-by-trip boarding estimates for Public Transport Victoria. These estimates were used to calculate myki (smart-card ticket) validation rates. The surveys were conducted across all times of day and day types. PBA Transit was supported by National Talent Partners, who provided additional survey staff.
Highlights
Survey Type: On-board count
Survey Approach: Manual data collection using pre-defined data sheets
Scope of Works
Outputs
Outputs provided to PTV included a detailed database providing boardings by trip and location, in a queryable format.
Key Challenges
It was important in surveying ticket validation rates that drivers and passengers were not aware of the presence of surveyors as it could affect their behaviour, so ensuring that checkers remain ‘incognito’ was important. Managing a large team of surveyors across Melbourne at all times of day and day types also requires significant resourcing.