STUDY OF PARKING GUIDANCE INFORMATION SYSTEM

Abstract

The searching and waiting times for parking lots can sometimes amount to a considerable portion of the motorist's total travel time. The searching causes congestions, delays and inconveniences to carpark users. It also increases the vacancy duration of unoccupied lots and indirectly reduces the returns of private carpark operators and owners. It is therefore the objective of this study to introduce a Parking Guidance Information (PG1) system to reduce the wastage. The proposed system provides up-to-date information regarding the availability of parking spaces and directs vehicles to them. From the survey conducted, it was found that there was a significant difference between the ideal and actual mean searching times. Majority of the respondents agreed that the main problem was the difficulty in finding vacant lots especially during peak periods. 37.3% of them would seek other carparks after failing to find any lots in the subject carpark. 91.3% of the motorists expressed their support for the PGI system provided the parking fee is unchanged. The effects of the PGI system were evaluated. It was found that there was a reduction in drivers' searching time and an improvement in the turnover rate. The research has illustrated the benefits of the PGI system in enhancing customer satisfaction and in improving the overall performance of the carpark. This shows the feasibility of installing the PGI system.