Application of data envelopment analysis in a small-scale transportation network.

Abstract

Further optimizing small-scale bus networks has proven to be an obstacle in linear programming over the previous decade. Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) is a mathematical approach designed to organize a system’s inputs and outputs and determine the efficiency of its decision-making units. Existing studies show that DEA is a logical approach for network planning in larger, highly-urbanized areas, yet there remains a gap in its effectiveness in smaller, more suburban settings. To explore this inquiry, five DEA models were designed and applied to 19 bus routes operating through Delaware, USA, and their results were statistically analyzed. Findings suggest that an individual can implement DEA in virtually any environment, regardless of size and popula- tion dispersion, as this study yielded results ranging from 28% to 100% efficiency, consistent with similar studies; therefore supporting the technique’s future applicability and success.

Keywords

• bus network
• data envelopment analysis
• excel solver
• linear programming
• optimiza- tion model
• transportation efficiency