Performance evaluation of public transit systems using a combined evaluation method

The goal of this paper is to evaluate the performance of public transit systems based on a combined evaluation method (CEM) consisting of information entropy theory and super efficiency data envelopment analysis (SE-DEA). Taking 13 transit operators in Yangtze Delta Region of China as the research object, we integrate the public transit industry regulations, transit operation and passenger requirements to construct an evaluation indicator system based on satisfaction and efficiency. The CEM is used to evaluate the performance. The results show significant differences in the efficiency scores between CEM and SE-DEA. The CEM can reduce the risks of SE-DEA affected by the dimensions of indicators, and improve its discrimination capability. The evaluation outcomes of the CEM seem to be more objective, therefore, provide a more suitable basis for decision-making related to public transit service performance, as well as for the study of operation and management.