Precision of geocoded locations and network distance estimates

Abstract

This paper addresses the accuracy of the geocoding of travel diaries, the relationships between different network-based distance estimates, and how exact estimates are when distances are self-reported. Three large-scale surveys in Norway and Switzerland demonstrate that very high precision is possible when survey protocol emphasizes the capture of addresses. The study uses the relevant and available databases and networks. Crow-fly, shortest distance path, shortest time path, and mean user equilibrium path distances are systematically related to each other, the pattern of their relationships is matched to theoretical expectations, and the impact of network resolution is reported. In the examples studied, medians of self-reported distances by distance band provide reasonable estimates of crow-fly and shortest distance path distances.