Review of the Impact of Telecommunications Substitutes for Travel

This paper is a review of research and applications on the subject of telecommunications as a substitute for travel over the last few years. With the increased emphasis on methods to conserve energy, a great deal of attention has been put on increasing the use of telecommunications. A summary is made of those modes of travel that are susceptible to substitution followed by a description of selected applications in the United States. A critical evaluation is made of the social and economic impacts or lack thereof. Finally areas requiring further research before widespread use of telecommunications as a substitute for travel can become a reality are discussed.