A methodology for measuring the quality of deviation reporting

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe a methodology based on vignettes and its application to measure the consistency of railway delay attribution, in order to report on experiences of using the methodology in this context.Design/methodology/approachA survey is used to ask personnel performing delay attribution about how they would report the delays described in the vignettes of the survey. The development, application and analysis of the survey are thoroughly described here.FindingsThe methodology proved useful for measuring the consistency of delay attribution.Research limitations/implicationsThe methodology also supports a further investigation of the accuracy of delay attribution systems.Practical implicationsA survey similar to the one presented here can be used by railways to estimate the accuracy of their delay attribution systems, as well as to continuously improve them. Changes to computer software and training will improve the delay attribution system under study.Originality/valueBy investigating current delay attribution practices using surveys based on vignettes, drawbacks of the current delay attribution system can be identified and remedied. The methodology is applicable to a wide class of deviation attribution applications.

How and Why Freight Trains Deviate From the Timetable: Evidence From Sweden

“…Similar data is available for cancelations, but not for added trains, or deviations where the train operates ahead of schedule. Please refer to [40] for more information on railway delay attribution in Sweden.…”