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Urban Mobility Planning

Data Collection: Capturing Urban Movement

Exploring the diverse methods and technologies used to collect mobility data in cities

The Art and Science of Data Collection

Collecting mobility data is both an art and a science, requiring careful consideration of technical capabilities, privacy implications, and practical constraints. Cities employ a diverse array of methods to capture the complex patterns of human movement, from traditional surveys to cutting-edge sensor networks.

Each collection method offers unique advantages and trade-offs. GPS tracking provides real-time, high-resolution data but raises privacy concerns. Infrastructure-based sensors offer accuracy and reliability but require significant investment. The key is selecting the right combination of methods to achieve comprehensive coverage while respecting privacy and managing costs.

Data Collection Principles

  • Purpose-driven: Collect data for specific, well-defined objectives
  • Privacy-first: Minimize personal data collection and maximize anonymization
  • Multi-modal: Use complementary methods for comprehensive coverage
  • Cost-effective: Balance data quality with collection and processing costs
  • Future-proof: Design systems that can adapt to new technologies and needs

Interactive Data Collection Methods

📱

Mobile GPS Tracking

Digital

A:85
P:30
C:40
💳

Transit Smart Cards

Infrastructure

A:95
P:60
C:70
📹

Traffic Cameras & Sensors

Infrastructure

A:90
P:80
C:85
📶

Bluetooth & WiFi Detection

Digital

A:70
P:40
C:50
📋

Travel Surveys

Traditional

A:75
P:90
C:30
👥

Crowdsourced Data

Digital

A:65
P:50
C:20

Implementation Considerations

Technical Factors
  • • Data integration capabilities
  • • Real-time processing requirements
  • • Storage and scalability needs
  • • API availability and standards
Policy & Legal Factors
  • • Privacy regulations compliance
  • • Data sharing agreements
  • • Public procurement rules
  • • Stakeholder engagement requirements