Introduction to Panel Surveys in Transportation Studies

Abstract

This report is a general introduction to the use of panel designs in surveys of travel behavior. It has four main objectives: to highlight the differences between cross-sectional and panel approaches to the study of travel behavior; to discuss the limitations of cross-sectional and panel data; to identify situations where panel data are preferable; and to provide guidelines for designing and maintaining a panel survey. The report contains a number of recommendations concerning the conduct and use of panel designs in travel surveys.