Why not both? Driver-less (or even just with drivers) mini buses, without fixed stops and dynamic routes/stops based on demand. I guess you don't want to stop

Why not both? Driver-less (or even just with drivers) mini buses, without fixed stops and dynamic routes/stops based on demand. I guess you don't want to stop more times than needed, so maybe you'd want to cluster the demand somehow into "virtual stops", and you may lack some amenities like shelters.. so maybe the traditional bus route is good enough. Though it feels like it's ripe for optimisation (you know the classic no buses come for 30min then 3 arrive at once, or these buses are all full whilst others are roaming empty)