MICROCOMPUTERS IN TRANSPORTATION. USE OF GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR TRANSPORTATION DATA ANALYSIS

This is a description of how geographic information system techniques were applied to analyze commuter rail survey data from which a Los Angeles intercounty rail service design can be projected and tailored. It is noted that the use of the geographic information system enhances the accuracy and efficiency of O-D survey data analysis and provides detailed spatial analysis results for transportation service evaluation. The GIS provides a flexible approach for data analysis. It was found that both short term commuting service design and long range transportation planning activities can be developed based upon a common GIS database structure, from which specific information can be queried to address unique project purposes. This makes possible an integrated data analysis environment.