Transport on demand from the operators' perspective

In areas with varying demand and limited service options, demand-responsive transport (DRT) is key to enhancing the flexibility, accessibility, and efficiency of public transport systems.

Demand-responsive transport (DRT) solves the challenge of providing public transport in low-demand areas, where traditional bus services are inefficient. Fixed routes often struggle to serve rural and low-density regions due to high costs and low ridership. DRT offers a flexible, demand-based solution, improving access and making public transport more efficient in places where regular bus services aren’t practical.

This report provides in-depth information on how bus operators are adopting demand-responsive transport (DRT). It offers practical examples, challenges, and strategies for integrating flexible solutions into public transport.

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• Introduction
• Key Features of Demand-Responsive Transport
• Types of Demand-Responsive Transport Services
• Business Model
• The Role of Demand-Responsive Transport Services Within the Bus Networks
• Optimal Settings for Demand-Responsive Transport
• Planning for Demand-Responsive Transport Services
• Implementing Demand-Responsive Transport Services
• Emerging Trends and Innovations
  • Milan: Study Exercise for Substitution of Fixed Routes by Demand-Responsive Transport Services on Public Holidays in the North-East of Milan
• Key Parameters and Metrics to Measure Demand-Responsive Transport Performance
• Best Practices and Recommendations for Successful Planning, Deployment and Operations
• Detailed Use Cases
  • ATM Milano
  • TMB Barcelona: “El Meu Bus” (My Bus)
• Conclusions
• Acknowledgements
• References