Home // International Journal On Advances in Intelligent Systems, volume 17, numbers 3 and 4, 2024 // View article
Authors:
Merja Saarela
Atte Partanen
Keywords: accessibility; barrier-free transportation; public transportation; travel chain; public transportation for all; digital accessibility; MaaS.
Abstract:
This extended article presents the challenges that people with mobility and functional disabilities face in seamless travel chains of public transport and in Mobility as Service (MaaS) conceptualized solutions. Building upon our previous research presented at The Ninth International Conference on Universal Accessibility in the Internet of Things and Smart Environments SMART ACCESSIBILITY 2024, we explore how these challenges act as stumbling blocks in achieving truly inclusive mobility solutions. The study emphasizes that while transport accessibility for all is considered essential, passengers with temporary or permanent disabilities continue to face significant barriers. We investigate the complexities of creating both physically accessible environments and digitally accessible information systems, highlighting the increased difficulty when aiming to integrate various modes of transport into customized, seamless travel chains via MaaS platforms. The research conducted in the city of Riihimäki in Southern Finland and its surrounding areas maps the key accessibility information needs of people with various mobility and functional disabilities. We compare these needs against the accessibility information provided by official travel databases, including National Access Points (NAP). The study examines common standards for data sharing and the challenges operators face in data production and integration. The findings reveal that although essential accessibility information can be found in databases, it often remains inaccessible or is not available in MaaS conceptualized route guides. We identify multiple reasons for this data accessibility gap and propose areas for improvement in the current system. Furthermore, this extended version explores the integration of accessibility data into MaaS platforms, discussing both the challenges and opportunities this presents for creating truly seamless and inclusive travel experiences. We also consider the role of emerging technologies and universal design principles in overcoming these obstacles. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the challenges in accessibility data production and integration, this research offers valuable insights for policymakers, transport operators, and technology developers. The goal is to foster the development of more inclusive public transport systems and seamless travel chains, ultimately improving the travel experience for all users, regardless of their skills.
Pages: 189 to 201
Copyright: Copyright (c) to authors, 2024. Used with permission.
Publication date: December 30, 2024
Published in: journal
ISSN: 1942-2679