EDI usage in the motor carrier industry

Abstract

Reports on the status of electronic data interchange (EDI) usage by motor carrier firms in 1994. The same methodology was employed as in a similar study conducted in 1991, thereby permitting a comparison of practice between these two time periods. The results indicate that a number of changes have occurred between 1991 and 1994. For example, as carriers have become more experienced with EDI, their EDI services offerings have become a larger percentage of their freight revenues. New problems have arisen (e.g. organizational barriers) as carriers integrate EDI more completely. On the other hand, the results also indicate where change has not occurred. Technical standards remain a “non issue” for carriers, yet finding relevant software remains an issue. Examines these and other findings and discusses their implications.