This option would include assessing the effectiveness of using the new
information and communication technologies (ICT) to reduce the need to travel
- e.g. by promoting remote working, e-commerce, e-services, etc.. This would
include equipping houses, businesses, community facilities etc with the
necessary spaces and information communications technology infrastructure. Many
activities could be undertaken, at least some of the time, on a "virtual" basis.
This option has been tested to some extent by the
‘virtual highway’ option in the first
phase of Cambridge Futures. The approach would be updated using the latest
planning information. There is currently very little research evidence on the
effects of ICT on travel behaviour, apart from on home-based "teleworking". Some
experts speculate that people may travel more as a result of having better
communications because they develop wider contacts and find more reasons to go
places and meet people. However, their trips and destinations are likely to be
different from people with lower levels of "virtual mobility".
Another possible effect is that that the new technologies will result in more
flexibility in work practices and this will allow commuters to spread their
travel times to avoid the busiest periods.
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Will "wiring up" communities with broadband
help to increase "virtual mobility"?
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