Evaluation of the concept “mobility as a service” in Emilia-Romagna region

This thesis explores the effectiveness of a Mobility as a Service (MaaS) system implemented in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. MaaS is an innovative approach to transportation planning that aims to integrate various mobility services into a single digital platform, improving accessibility, convenience, and sustainability. The research begins with an overview of the MaaS concept, followed by a discussion of its development and application within Italy and specifically within the Emilia-Romagna region. The core of the study involves an analysis of survey data collected before and after the implementation of the regional MaaS system. Key performance indicators related to digital engagement, transport mode choice, and user satisfaction were examined to evaluate the system's impact. Contrary to the expected outcomes of a successful MaaS initiative, the results showed a decrease in the use of digital tools for trip planning and ticketing, a decline in multimodal transport use, and an increase in private vehicle reliance. These findings suggest that the MaaS system did not meet its primary goals of promoting public transport accessibility, intermodal integration, and digital mobility adoption. The study concludes with a set of recommendations aimed at addressing the challenges identified, including improving user education, consolidating digital platforms, and enhancing accessibility for disadvantaged groups.