On demand brokerage of public transport services: from theory to reality

Statutory providers of public transport services are increasingly required to demonstrate best practice. Currently, public transport is almost entirely supplied as a network of standalone services, each being scheduled at varying times prior to the time of travel, but with operators and vehicles allocated a long time in advance of travel. One way of achieving efficiency is through the brokerage of all services, with the decision about the operator used, the vehicle used and the route being taken as close as possible to the time of travel by the passenger. This paper discusses the theory behind the demand responsiveness of public transport, to give an understanding of how public transport can be brokered. Two UK case studies examine the progress that has been made in achieving brokerage and identify legal and attitudinal changes that are needed for enhanced brokerage.