Drivers' response to parking guidance and information systems

This paper reviews published evidence of the effects of dynamic information and guidance on drivers' choices of car parks. A major conclusion is that overall response levels to dynamic information are much lower than might be expected. Behavioural generalizations are difficult due to the varying nature of the systems being developed as well as the studies that have been undertaken. The lack of conclusions able to be generalized highlights the complexity of the parking choice process. Wide variations in awareness and usage rate were found between different groups of drivers, including age, gender, trip purpose and frequency. Explanations of the responses of drivers to PGI systems can be made by considering the drivers' level of knowledge, their ability to interpret information as well as their preference for different types of information.