An exploratory study of ICT adoption in the Italian freight transportation industry

Purpose - Companies in the freight transportation industry can currently make use of an increasing number of applications based on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to improve the performance of their processes. Although these applications have become more widely used in recent years, there is still little research focussing on the actual adoption rate. The present study aims to fill this gap and provide a broad empirical analysis of the use of ICT-based applications in the freight transportation industry in Italy. Design/methodology/approach - The analysis uses multiple-case studies. It is based on semi-structured interviews with the management of leading Italian companies involved in transportation processes. Findings - The study provides an insight into the current adoption of ICT applications among companies involved in freight transportation activities in Italy. The results point out the most used functions in each application area and the level of integration across these application areas. Research limitations/implications - The sample of companies examined in this study was selected by expert assessment, and is biased towards companies willing to provide data and share results. However, the findings provide some interesting results on how and where investments in ICT can be suitable for companies in the logistics and transportation industry. Originality/value - The paper fulfils an identified need for in-depth case studies focussing on the adoption level and the implementation process of ICT applications in transportation, and it is of interest to researchers and practitioners in the field of logistics and transportation management.