A framework to support the design of demand-responsive transport

Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) systems have emerged as viable alternatives to traditional public transport (PT), especially in low-demand areas where PT has proven to be inefficient. However, the large number of possible configurations, the heterogeneity of service geographical areas, and the lack of expertise of planners makes designing these systems a considerable challenge. This work aims to support the design of DRT systems at a strategic level by proposing a categorization of key DRT design variables along with a methodology to aid decision-makers in selecting the most suitable configurations, considering the purposes, target passengers, service geographical area, and operational hours of the system. For this purpose, a strategic-level decision support framework (APOLO) was developed. This framework was designed based on the analysis of real-world DRT implementations and existing literature, and it is composed of three interconnected modules. MUSE evaluates the suitability of values of the ”operation” variables using a matrix adapted to the user defined system objectives and perceptions of flexibility. ARTEMIS simulates the daily operations of candidate configurations in virtual scenarios; generating a broad set of KPIs across four dimensions: passenger perception, accessibility; operational efficiency; and environmental impact. DELOS applies a cost–benefit analysis to determine the most appropriate service-level design choices. Globally, the APOLO framework provides both a theoretical foundation and a practical tool to guide data-informed, participatory, and context-sensitive DRT design.