Promoting sustainable travel behaviour through the use of smartphone applications: A review and development of a conceptual model. (April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Andersson, Alfred; Winslott Hiselius, Lena; Adell, Emeli
• Is Part Of: Travel behaviour and society. Volume 11(2018)
• Page Start: 52
• Page End: 61
• Publication Date: 2018-04
• Subjects: Travel behaviour -- ICT -- Smartphone applications -- Behaviour change -- Sustainable mobility; Transportation -- Periodicals; Population geography -- Periodicals; 303.48305
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tbs.2017.12.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-367X

Abstract

Highlights: A conceptual model for creating behaviour change support systems is developed. Contextualised and relevant content are essential from a user-perspective. Segmentation of intended target population is strongly suggested. Earlier research demonstrate a gap between empiricism and theory. Creating long term user commitment is crucial for sustained behaviour change. Abstract: The negative effects of transport in terms of pollution, congestion and climate change has urged the need for higher shares of cleaner and more efficient modes of transport, especially in urban settings. While new technology can solve some of these issues, behaviour changes has also been identified as an important factor to achieve a modal shift from cars to walking, cycling or public transport. This study investigates how ICT has been used to influence behaviour change and synthesizes key aspects into a conceptual model for creating a behaviour change support system (BCSS) for smartphone applications. A literature review concerning behaviour change and ICT in the fields of transport, health, energy and climate was conducted to gather empirical evidence which forms the foundation of the conceptual model. The empirical findings were tested and verified against a theoretical framework consisted of The Transtheoretical Model, Theory of Planned Behaviour, Diffusion of Innovations and the concept of Gamification. The results suggest that customization to the user, relevant and contextualised information and feedback, commitment, and appealing design are important aspects when influencing users to behaviour change through smartphone applications. The conceptual model provides further knowledge of key aspects to consider when developing persuasive tools that aims to encourage more sustainable modes of transport.