Measurement and evaluation
Dwell time
Durée de présence
Dwell time is the elapsed time that a vehicle or other observed user remains within a defined location or activity state. Curb studies must state the arrival and departure events used, because a loading session, a parking visit, and time spent waiting can produce different durations.
Understanding the term
Report distributions and observation limits alongside averages. A mean can conceal both very short stops and a small number of long occupations that prevent other users from gaining access.
Every reported measure needs a geographic boundary, observation period, unit, and documented calculation method. State how missing data, temporary closures, and sessions crossing the observation boundary are treated. Use distributions or separate user categories where an average hides important differences. Compare consistent definitions across sites and periods, and distinguish an observed association from a demonstrated causal effect. The appropriate indicator follows the policy question rather than whichever field a monitoring system happens to provide.