Public transport timetable: A document detailing public transport service times.
Types:
Public timetables for passengers
Internal timetables for employees
Formats: Traditionally printed; now available electronically.
Historical Context
First UK railway timetables compiled in 1839 by George Bradshaw.
Railway time introduced in 1840 replacing solar time with Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).
The European Rail Timetable has been published since 1873.
Types of Timetables
Matrix Timetables: Organize services and stops systematically.
Dynamic Timetables: Generated on request for specific journeys.
Clock-face Scheduling: Regular interval service times to improve memorability for passengers.
Display Formats
Printed Formats: Books, leaflets, posters, and blackboards.
Electronic Formats: Online, SMS, and text messages.
Stop-specific Displays: Information at stations and stops showing departures, often listed on yellow (departures) and white (arrivals) posters in Europe.
Electronic Displays: Dynamic displays showing upcoming departures at central locations or platforms.
Modern Developments
Introduction of public transport route planners aiding in cross-timetable planning.
Increasing use of digital data formats like GTFS for transport schedules.
Computer-generated timetables and rostering in modern systems.
Reduction in printed timetables due to electronic alternatives.
Global Perspectives
In large cities, high frequency of services reduces the need for consulting timetables.
Some regions provide limited public timetables during peak hours.
Notable Publications
European Rail Timetable: Includes major European railway services.
Thomas Cook Overseas Timetable: Covered non-European routes until 2010.
OAG Flight Guide: Monthly air timetable covering global airlines.
National Timetables
Japan: Initially published in 1894, transitioning to official national timetables by 1915.
Switzerland: Timetables change annually in December, with major changes every two years.
United Kingdom: GB Rail Timetable, published twice a year for summer and winter.
Online Timetable Integration
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS): Offers comprehensive online and printed timetable options.
Deutsche Bahn: Provides extensive European timetable information.
Key Considerations
Timetables are crucial for managing public transport networks efficiently.
Evolution from printed to digital formats enhances accessibility and timeliness.
Importance of maintaining consistency and accuracy in published schedules.