Driving Forces and Barriers for the Implementation of Mobility Services in Austria - A Practitioner Perspective

Abstract

There is growing interest in the role of integrated mobility services in successfully transforming mobility systems by improving alternatives to individual motorised transport and thus contributing to a reduction in negative impacts on nature and society. This paper analyses the conditions for the successful implementation of local mobility services in Austria by adopting a mixed-methods approach combining grounded theory and critical realism. In total, 15 narrative, semi-structured interviews were conducted, sampled by applying thematic, practical, and criterion sampling and using an analytical procedure of open, axial, and selective coding. Particular attention was paid to the influence of governance structures and related processes, the integration of user needs, and the topic of technology and its role in local mobility services. The results showed that for the success of local mobility services, in addition to the availability of and long-term commitment to funding, the initial phase of a project (e.g., the selection of project partners) and the deployment of collaborative and local participatory target-setting processes are extremely important. Further, the findings showed that the motivation and interest of all stakeholders involved in the projects can be regarded as driving forces for enhanced cooperation, dedication, and resilience throughout the project. In addition, developing and communicating needs-oriented mobility services should be emphasised. Although the analysis showed the importance of the deployment and hence the selection of certain types of technological solutions, it also highlighted the difficulties of governance processes related to choosing and implementing adequate technological solutions regarding cooperation and networking between key stakeholders in the projects.