Transport For Humans: Are We Nearly There Yet?

Engineers plan transport systems, but passengers prioritize speed, journey time, and efficiency. We are not cargo; we choose how and when to travel influenced by habit, status, comfort, and variety. Behavioral science can improve the design of roads, railways, planes, and pavements, but only when we embrace the messier reality of transport for humans.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 18 November 2021
Publisher: London Publishing Partnership

Engineers design transport systems, which people use. However, the metrics by which engineers measure success, such as speed, journey time, and efficiency, may differ from passengers' perceptions of a good trip. We are not mere cargo; we have the agency to choose our travel mode, timing, and preferences, influenced by various factors beyond mere speed and time. These factors include habit, status, comfort, variety, and countless others that engineering equations fail to capture. As we approach the practical limits of speed, capacity, and punctuality, the greatest hope for a brighter future lies in adapting transport to align more closely with human desires and needs.

Behavioral science holds immense potential to enhance the design of roads, railways, planes, and pavements, as well as our usage habits. However, this potential can only be fully realized when we embrace the messy reality of transport for humans. The COVID-19 pandemic and climate change have challenged long-held assumptions and paved the way for a new approach. This book aims to provide a roadmap for designing transport systems that prioritize human needs.

In the past, transport systems were primarily engineered with efficiency and speed in mind, often at the expense of passenger comfort and convenience. However, the changing landscape of transportation demands a shift towards a more human-centric approach. This means designing transport systems that consider the diverse needs and preferences of passengers, including factors such as accessibility, safety, and well-being.

One key aspect of designing transport for humans is understanding the role of behavior in shaping travel choices. Behavioral science can help us understand why people choose certain modes of transport over others, what factors influence their decision-making process, and how we can design systems that are more intuitive and user-friendly. For example, research has shown that people are more likely to use public transportation if it is convenient, affordable, and accessible. By designing systems that prioritize these factors, we can encourage more people to switch from private cars to public transport, reducing traffic congestion and environmental pollution.

Another important consideration is the impact of transport systems on human health and well-being. Studies have shown that exposure to traffic noise and air pollution can have negative effects on physical and mental health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. By designing transport systems that prioritize noise reduction and air quality improvement, we can help to create healthier and more sustainable communities.

In addition to these considerations, designing transport for humans also requires a holistic approach that considers the social and economic implications of transportation. Transport systems play a crucial role in connecting people to jobs, education, and social opportunities, and they can have a significant impact on economic growth and social mobility. By designing transport systems that are inclusive and accessible to all, we can help to promote social equity and reduce inequality.

To achieve this, engineers and policymakers need to work together to develop a comprehensive framework for designing transport systems that prioritize human needs. This framework should include a combination of technical and non-technical measures, such as improving infrastructure, promoting alternative modes of transport, and implementing policies that support sustainable and inclusive transportation.

In conclusion, designing transport for humans is a critical challenge that requires a shift in mindset
towards a more holistic and human-centric approach. By embracing the messier reality of transport for humans, leveraging the potential of behavioral science, and considering the social and economic implications of transportation, we can create transport systems that are more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive. This will not only improve the quality of life for individuals but also contribute to the overall well-being of our communities and the planet.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 139 x 216 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913019358