Demand-responsive transport

Demand-responsive transport (DRT), also known as demand-responsive transit, demand-responsive service,^[1] Dial-a-Ride^[2] transit (sometimes DART),^[3] flexible transport services,^[4] Microtransit,^[5] Non-Emergency Medical Transport (NEMT),^[5] Carpool^[6] or On-demand bus service is a form of shared private or quasi-public transport for groups traveling where vehicles alter their routes each journey based on particular transport demand without using a fixed route or timetabled journeys.^[7] These vehicles typically pick-up and drop-off passengers in locations according to passengers needs and can include taxis, buses or other vehicles.^[8][9] Passengers can typically summon the service with a mobile phone app or by telephone; telephone is particularly relevant to older users who may not be conversant with technology.^[10]

One of the most widespread types of demand-responsive transport (DRT) is to provide a public transport service in areas of low passenger demand where a regular bus service is not considered to be financially viable, such as rural and peri-urban areas.^[11] Services may also be provided for particular types of passengers. One example is the paratransit programs for people with a disability. The provision of public transport in this manner emphasises one of its functions as a social service rather than creating a viable movement network.^[12][13][14]