framework of the basic urban model. In this way, subsequent steps for modelling new urban
polynodal systems, can be formulated.
The structure of this article is as follows: first it concentrates on the data and the
territorial division used. Next, the three theoretical models are elaborated: the basic model
starting from the concentration of employment, the model of deconcentrated employment
and the cross-traffic model. Then the models are compared with the actual commuter
behaviour in four large urban regions within the Randstad of the Netherlands: Amsterdam,
Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht (see Dieleman & Musterd 1992; Cortie, et al, 1992;
Frieling, 1994). Finally, the results are evaluated. Answers are given to the questions whether
the basic model is still topical and, if not, if it can be adapted in such a way that it fits actual
commuting. Moreover indications about the next step in modelling the new urban structures
are proposed