Benchmarking of Mobility Networks Performances: Competitive Threat or Cooperative Tool?

Abstract

This paper proposed a synthesis of the potential fields of application of benchmarking in the field of mobility, based on the most recent initiatives of the European Commission and practical applications. After a definition of the categories of benchmarking, the authors propose the possible scenarios in the next years : application by transport operators, by public authorities in charge of public transport, application in frontiers domains more then on the classical approach of the activity (passengers, other sectors, “no mans lands”). The main tools for benchmarking are proposed : method, common framework, consensus building and implementation of the results. No doubt that benchmarking contributes to a convergence process. it generates a positive retro-action in the management system of the benchmarkers : more benchmarking reduces the cost of access to the understanding of the performances and increase the value of the information resulting from the process.