Getting Public Transport Networked: It’s Not Just Complicated, It’s Complex

This paper explores the complexity of implementing significant changes to public transport systems, particularly those changes designed to create systems that can complete with the private car. It does this by looking at a case of implementing Networked Public Transport from Bozhou, China. After four months of political decision making, Bozhou undertook to radically alter their public transport system, implementing what is known as “one road one line” public transport. The changes were implemented in a period of two months in the manner of fixing a machine. Transport experts developed the new system, realigning the established bus system by drawing lines on a map, and then implemented it under the direction of the government. Complications were dealt with, but little to no consideration was given to the multiple interconnections of parts which create complexity. Traditional governance failure to deal with this complexity caused a backlash from the public. The paper suggests that non-linear oriented governance with a creative and holistic approach to implementation inside the broader context, might support a successful implementation, as might an approach that directly deal with consumers’ psychological demands and behavioural changes. Further studies should be conducted to explore how people can manage such complex implementations.