Methodology and Innovation in the Design of Shared Transportation Systems for Academic Environments

At the Politecnica Salesiana University (UPS) in Guayaquil, Ecuador, urban mobility challenges were addressed in order to improve quality of life and promote sustainability. The feasibility of implementing a shared transportation system for students was evaluated using a quantitative and descriptive approach. To this end, data on the transportation habits of a representative sample of 256 students were collected and analyzed using surveys. The methodology included the use of the deductive method to approach the mobility problem from a general perspective to the specific, and the analytical method to identify causes and effects related to such habits. An exhaustive theoretical review was also conducted and surveys were used to collect quantitative data describing the current state of transportation. The study route was designed using ArcGIS software, while initial and recurrent costs were calculated using Microsoft Excel. Social impact was assessed through focus groups and analysis of demographic and socioeconomic data. Preliminary findings revealed significant difficulties in student mobility, suggesting that ridesharing is not only financially viable, but also widely accepted due to its ability to save time and reduce stress.