For statistical purposes, what timing is relevant when tracking train arrivals?

When tracking train arrivals for statistical purposes, the timing at the terminal is crucial because it provides a clear and definitive reference point for measuring punctuality and operational efficiency. The lateness at the terminal reflects how well the train adhered to its scheduled arrival time, which is vital for evaluating service reliability and identifying patterns of delays.

By focusing on tardiness at the terminal, operators can gather important data on performance metrics, such as on-time percentages and delay causes. This information can subsequently inform operational adjustments and improve overall service quality. Tracking the timing at the terminal also aligns with industry standards for measuring a train's performance and provides consistent data that can be used for comparison across different time periods or service patterns.

In contrast, while average travel time, timing of the last stop, and duration of the layover may offer insights into aspects of the journey, they do not directly represent the effectiveness of train scheduling or its impact on customer satisfaction in the same way that terminal lateness does. Thus, the focus on lateness at the terminal is essential for actionable insights and a better understanding of train operations.