Electronic transportation and the impacts of information and communication technology on it

One of the most important tools for the advancement and development of the transportation system in today's world is the precise and effective utilization of information technology. Since the 1980s, tools for using information technology facilities have been created globally, with the most significant feature being their utilization via the internet. One aspect of this transformation is conducting transactions through the use of systems based on electronic information (such as mobile and smart phones, tablets, laptops, etc.). This advancement has given rise to a topic known as electronic commerce, which is increasingly progressing and moving forward. Electronic logistics has also been transformed in many ways due to these advancements. This transformation has even changed transportation patterns, such that factors like travel time, distance, or cost alone cannot be assessed, and other factors have also become involved. Information technology-related technologies usable in transportation include:

• Common information systems
• Semantic tools and IT-based standards
• Web technologies (internet, intranet, extranet, etc.)
• Information and technology systems (satellites, etc.)

ITS and Transportation

To reduce traffic problems since the 1960s, the construction of more streets, roads, highways, etc., was on the agenda of decision-makers. However, this decision not only did not completely eliminate the problems but gradually, these individuals, with more experience, realized that in urban areas, optimal mobility should be prioritized over car mobility. ITS stands for Intelligent Transportation Systems, and it is interesting to know that many definitions and interpretations have been provided for it so far. For example, in 1998, the Intelligent Transportation Society of America interpreted ITS as people using technology to save time and cost in daily life. Just a year later, the U.S. Department of Transportation officially defined ITS as "systems for collecting, maintaining, processing, and distributing information related to the movement of goods and passengers." Now it must be said that the strategic program definition of ITS in the state of Victoria, Australia, is considered a more modern interpretation encompassing more aspects. This definition is "the purposeful use of communications and information technology (ICT) to create a more efficient and safer transportation system," in which GPS technology is considered one of the most important factors. This system locates by connecting the moving unit with the communication network. In this case, the moving unit first establishes a connection, the system locates with GPS, and by sending it to the center, the result will be received. The central system, based on a programmed algorithm, determines the route for each unit sending information. The ITS system means using and applying modern technologies and advanced technologies to achieve better quality mobility, greater safety, and better efficiency. It should be able to correct transportation sector issues, consume the least energy, improve environmental indicators, and increase transportation access and speed. Some applications that the intelligent transportation system encompasses include:

• Capillary distribution and dissemination systems
• Public transportation management systems
• Emergency vehicle management and support systems
• Passenger information systems
• Information management systems
• Monitoring and control systems for light and heavy transportation
• And more...

One of the systems that the intelligent transportation system utilizes is AVL. This system brings benefits for the mobile fleets of any organization. These benefits include:

• Fleet management optimization
• Enhancing fleet safety and security
• Dynamic optimization of fleet movement routes
• Real-time and instant control of unit behavior (including: current location, movement route, movement speed, stop location, stop duration, etc.)

Explaining each of the mentioned benefits, despite being obvious, might be useful and practical, but here we only suffice to mention them. It is noteworthy that all the mentioned items operate in real-time and instantly, effectively providing live reports from the unit using modern technologies.

Electronic Transportation

Electronic transportation means using web technology to support all the processes that occur in transportation operations. The term electronic transportation has become an integral part of electronic business. Electronic transportation in B2B and B2C businesses is developing to support the new generation of electronic business models and for the emergence of electronic stores. This transformation has been taking shape since 2002 and is only a quarter-century old. This model can show how information is exchanged by a component with the technical infrastructure. It can also indicate the informational component that describes the depth of knowledge required for support and demonstrates the advancement of internal and external capabilities of the transportation model. Alongside these, according to Coyle's report, the transportation information system may be used as an exchange structure between people, equipment, and work methods. This system can provide appropriate and accessible information for transportation managers and supervisors for planning, implementation, and control. Now, to conclude, it must be said that outlining the role of transportation and the role of IT in development and cost reduction is very important, as a lack of proper understanding will lead to energy waste.