Traditionally, surveys of commuters have been analyzed by mode of commute, namely by SOV drivers, car or van pool riders and transit users. By examining responses to questionnaires separated into those three categories, a great deal of information has been obtained to help manage and refine the traffic management infrastructure.
Until now, little has been done to consider whether commuters can be categorized by how they view their commute as opposed to the mechanics of actual mode of commuting. Do some actually enjoy their commute and some dislike it irrespective of how they actually commute? Do some carpoolers share the same opinions about commuting as some SOV drivers or some bus riders? If this were the case, commonly held opinions of any of these groups can be examined with the purpose of understanding the different motivators influencing each group. This knowledge can be used, particularly in communications/ to help persuade commuters to consider alternative commuting options which, if adopted, can have a positive effect on improving traffic movement.
