Content Preferences for In-Vehicle Tourist Information Systems

Abstract

Abstract The high frequency of automobile use for tourist travel presents new opportunities for facilitating the search for tourist-based information and for marketing destination-specific travel information. The purpose of the study reported here was to better understand the information needs and preferences of tourists who drive in order to support the development of In-Vehicle Information Systems (Advanced Traveler Information Systems, ATIS) designed specifically for the tourist. Study data include a review of the literature and a nationwide questionnaire survey of about 1,400 adult US residents regarding their information needs and preferences for overnight automobile travel. Results were based on analyses of subjects overall and by sex and educational level. Few differences between men and women were found except women were generally more positive about all types of information. Preferences differed frequently by level of education. These results have important application to the development of ATIS and other tourist-based information sources such as welcome centers, kiosks, and brochures.