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Challenges and opportunities for the La Guaira container terminal in multimodal transport
Introduction: International maritime transport faces geopolitical and commercial challenges that have impacted Venezuela, causing a 60 % decrease in its port activity (1). This situation highlights the necessity to analyze and optimize the existing port infrastructure. Objective: The purpose of this study was to analyze the challenges and opportunities of the Specialized Container Terminal (TEC) in La Guaira to support its development as a central node for multimodal transport in the country. Method: A qualitative methodology with a descriptive-exploratory approach was used, employing methodological triangulation to validate the findings. The data collection instruments included: a documentary review of 41 sources, non-participant observation, and conducting 9 semi-structured interviews with key sector stakeholders. Results: the results indicate that TEC-La Guaira operates at only 10 % of its installed capacity of 1,2 million TEU/year. The analysis revealed three main barriers limiting its development: technological obsolescence (56 % of the cranes are over 15 years old), legal fragmentation (there are 7 contradictory regulations in port management), and intermodal disconnection (only 12 % of the cargo integrates land and maritime transport). Conclusions and Proposal: despite its strategic importance, there is a lack of empirical studies proposing comprehensive solutions for the modernization of this terminal. As a contribution, a Multimodal Strategic Plan (PEM) is proposed, structured around four pillars: technological: adoption of blockchain for supply chain management, financial: public and private investment in 4.0 infrastructure, legal: unify regulations under UNCTAD standards, and sustainable: implementation of green corridors (SDGs 9 and 13).
Copyright (c) 2025 Carmen Janeth Padrón (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Evaluation of pedestrian and bicycle mobility on Mazatlan's Malecon: Successes and opportunities for sustainable urban mobility
Traditional urban development has prioritized road infrastructure for automobiles, relegating pedestrian and bicycle mobility, which has negatively impacted the quality of life in cities (Gehl, 2010). Models such as Copenhagen's "Fingers Plan" (1947) have demonstrated the feasibility of integrating sustainable urban design by combining transportation networks and green spaces (López-Goyburu, 2017). In this context, the Mazatlán Malecón represents a key scenario for analyzing the progress and challenges in sustainable urban mobility. This study evaluates the current conditions of pedestrian and bicycle mobility on the Malecón, identifying strengths and areas for improvement to promote a more inclusive and efficient environment.
Copyright (c) 2025 Carlos Fabián Nava Guzmán, Ricardo Mendoza Anguiano, Yennifer Díaz Romero, Víctor Manuel Martínez García (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Integration of Alexa Auto and vehicle diagnostic protocols: towards a smart automotive ecosystem
Introduction: The study described how the advancement of digital technologies transformed the automotive industry and drove the adoption of in-cabin voice assistants. It presented Alexa and the Echo Auto device as versatile alternatives to factory solutions, thanks to their synchronization with phones and personalization through skills. He argued that, by integrating with diagnostic standards such as OBDII and the CAN network, such assistants offered immediate access to critical vehicle parameters, reduced driver distraction and facilitated more natural interaction for entertainment, communication and control. Development: The work reviewed the state of the art and reports that associated the assistants with less visual and manual load and better reaction times. It described integrated ecosystems (MBUX, CarPlay, Android Auto) and external alternatives such as Echo Auto and compatible devices. He detailed the architecture of Alexa and its voice processing pipeline, from audio capture to response synthesis, and presented the development of skills by blocks with Voiceflow and by textual programming through Alexa Skills Kit. He explained the role of IoT platforms, with emphasis on Blynk, to orchestrate data and control devices. Characterized OBDII - connector, protocols and interface - and CAN protocol - topology, speeds, frames and termination requirements - as a basis for extracting and transmitting reliable vehicle data to cloud services and assistance applications. Conclusions: The research argued that linking Alexa Auto to the in-vehicle computer was feasible and strategic. The convergence between voice assistants, IoT, OBDII and CAN enabled timely diagnostics, hands-free interaction and informed decisions. It was concluded that this integration elevated road safety, optimized car lifespan, and paved the way for smarter vehicle ecosystems and, going forward, an orderly transition to autonomous and sustainable driving.
Copyright (c) 2025 Alexis Javier Villacis Ninasunta, Mariana Pinargote Basurto (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Computer-to-vehicle linking system, Alexa auto
The automotive industry has seen the need to improve the comfort of the user by integrating intelligent voice-controlled systems. This aims to prevent potential distractions while driving and enhance the user experience on their journeys. Nowadays, voice assistants that interact with specific vehicle information are exclusive to high-end models or specific brands. However, there are other voice assistant alternatives available on the market such as the Echo Auto, which is designed for use in vehicles allowing access to the functionalities of the Alexa voice assistant. Conversely, its functions are limited to access to entertainment and information applications. Considering this context, this work presents the development of a system that allows extracting information from sensors of the Toyota Hilux CS 2020 vehicle, such as the status of the fuel system, ignition timing, coolant temperature and the air-fuel ratio. It also includes control of the activation of the door locks of a Mazda CX-3 vehicle. To do this, an MCP2515 CAN bus controller has been used to extract or write information from the bus and an Arduino Nano microcontroller to process it and send it to the cloud using a WIFI module. The Blynk IoT platform is responsible for receiving this data or sending it to the microcontroller and presenting it in an interface so that the user can monitor it. Through an Alexa skill programmed in Voiceflow, it is possible to access this data or modify it using voice commands given by the user. The main limitations encountered stem from the characteristics of the CAN bus in the vehicle, as not all the modules for function control are always connected to the main bus, for this reason it was necessary to use different vehicles.
The evolution of urban transport in Córdoba: sustainability and user experience
Introduction Mobility has always been an essential feature of human life, but in large cities it has become a social, economic, and environmental challenge. In the city of Córdoba, population and vehicle growth has led to congestion, pollution, and a deterioration in the quality of urban life. Faced with this situation, there was a need to rethink the public transport system as a sustainable alternative to private vehicle use. Development The research was based on an analysis of population growth and its impact on mobility, showing that the number of vehicles on the road increased steadily between 2015 and 2020. This, combined with the city's topography, intensified the accumulation of pollutants. Urban public transport was studied from the perspective of sustainability, understood as the ability to meet current needs without compromising those of future generations. Alternative propulsion technologies, such as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), were also evaluated, and the transition to electric mobility was considered a viable option. Finally, the role of industrial design in creating accessible, efficient, and user-friendly transportation systems was analyzed, with the aim of promoting a cultural shift toward collective modes of mobility. Conclusion The study concluded that urban mobility in Córdoba required profound transformations towards sustainable and accessible public transport. These transformations should be aimed not only at reducing emissions, but also at improving the user experience, ensuring an inclusive and effective system that contributes to sustainable urban development.
Copyright (c) 2024 Tiziano Oreja D'Aloia , Carlos Fernando Valdez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Social and financial impact of urban mass transportation
Introduction: They studied urban mobility as an essential element for the development of contemporary cities. They recognized that efficient, sustainable and cost-effective public transport is key to improving quality of life and economic growth. They considered that economics applied to transportation allowed understanding and optimizing resources, guiding decisions towards collective welfare. Within this framework, they analyzed the BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system, taking as an example the Macrobús in Guadalajara. Development: They applied economic principles such as increasing and decreasing returns, common and joint costs, and economies of scale and scope. Through these concepts, they evaluated the economic impacts of the BRT system. They identified that they achieved significant operational savings through substitution of conventional units, automation of fare collection and reduction of pollutant emissions. They estimated more than 8 billion pesos in operational savings over 20 years, 312 million pesos for reduced revenue losses and 96 million pesos for reduction of pollutants. They also evaluated travel time savings as a significant social benefit. They determined that the improvement in travel speed allowed users to use their time for other productive or personal activities. In addition, they noted that the BRT business organization replaced the man-truck model, allowing for a more efficient and safer operation. Conclusions: They concluded that the BRT system represented an integral solution for urban mobility. Through planning based on sound economic principles, they were able to improve operational efficiency, reduce environmental impacts and promote more equitable and sustainable urban development.
Copyright (c) 2022 Roberto Ulises Estrada Meza, Salvador Carrillo Regalado (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Urban mobility is a problem that afflicts society in general. The mobility matrix, together with the existing horizontal urban growth path in Cordoba’s City, promotes the acquisition of private vehicles over the public transport system for daily routine. This excessive growth towards the outskirts of the downtown, causes a greater extension of routes and the, increasingly, notorious influx of vehicles on the streets. As a consequence, the exponential increase in emissions of polluting gases into the environment and the excess of traffic jams in crowded areas of the city can be observed. This project is aimed at the development of a new urban public transport service system focused on the user's personal experience, inserted in a future prospective projection of multidisciplinary restructuring of regional urban mobility patterns, and of Cordoba’s city in particular. From Industrial Design, a proposal is presented for a cabin for the urban public transport system that places accessibility and travel experience at the level of a private vehicle, thus promoting their daily use, in pursuit of reducing the environmental impact and footprint of personal carbon, towards an increasingly efficient and sustainable urban development system.
Design and Implementation of an ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System in Various Organizational Sectors
Introduction: The research focused on the design and implementation of a Quality Management System (QMS) under the ISO 9001:2015 standard, considering its relevance in a highly competitive organizational environment. It started from the recognition of quality as a strategic axis and set as its main objective the analysis and adaptation of a management model appropriate to the characteristics of a specific organization. Development: A literature review was conducted of relevant studies that applied this standard in sectors such as transportation, legal services, aircraft maintenance, food distribution, and roadside assistance. Cases such as those of López (2020), Solano (2022), and Vargas (2019) demonstrated how the standard made it possible to standardize processes, increase efficiency, and improve customer satisfaction. Tools such as process maps, checklists, and risk analysis were also applied to develop proposals for continuous improvement. Conclusions: It was concluded that the ISO 9001:2015 standard is an effective tool for strengthening organizational processes and ensuring the quality of products and services. The key to success lay in management commitment, ongoing training, and the use of appropriate methodologies. In addition, it was evident that the standard offers greater flexibility compared to other quality models such as EFQM and Deming, making it particularly applicable to different types of organizations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Franklin Jesús Piñerez Díaz, Eduvigis Sorrentino, Oscar Antonio Caldera Molleja (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Quality management system for Cardón Rent Car, C.A
The objective of this research project was to propose a quality management system design for Cardón Rent. Car C.A. This objective contributes to establishing the guidelines and requirements subject to the standard that will improve the processes identified for the satisfaction of quality services, thereby providing the necessary attributes to the quality management system in each process carried out in the performance of the company's tasks. The problem presented in this company is the lack of certification, since it bases its guidelines on the National Institute of Aquatic Spaces (INEA) in order to be able to carry out its operations in the docks and ships as required by that institution in aquatic spaces, which was the reason and key focus of the research. To this end, a documentary and field investigation was proposed, with a non-experimental and bibliographic design, at a descriptive level of research and in the form of a feasible project. To achieve the overall objective, the service line was first characterized, and then the current situation of the company was diagnosed, evaluating the different parameters of the standard through the instrument: checklists yielding reliable results, with a degree of non-compliance of 75% through the evaluation of 118 items. The processes that make up the process map were also identified, which will contribute to the sampling for the diagnosis of possible shortcomings in the current processes. In this regard, direct observation was carried out, and unstructured interviews were conducted with a finite population of 37 people, including the general manager, operations manager, and all personnel involved in all production processes, in order to understand the current perspective and identify strengths and weaknesses. This information was then used to design a quality management system manual based on the requirements of the ISO 9001:2015 standard for Cardon Rent. Car C.A., and as a result, provides benefits that will drive it to improve its operations and serve as support when it decides to pursue international certification.
Analysis of public transport fares in Guadalajara, Mexico
The study analysed public transport fares in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area (AMG), with an emphasis on their economic and social dimensions. It started from the fact that, until 2018, there was no formal methodology for calculating this fare, and the only ruling issued by the then Jalisco Institute of Mobility and Transport (IMTJ) focused solely on Trunk Line 05 of the General Transport Programme. Based on this context, the work explored international references such as the IDB, ECLAC and UITP, which offered conceptual frameworks on how to structure fares that were efficient, sustainable and fair.The research incorporated social justice theories, such as those of Rawls, Sen and Veblen, to argue that public transport should be understood as a right and not just as an economic good. It also addressed the economics of transport, considering concepts such as demand elasticity, joint costs, diminishing returns and marginal pricing. The technical fare was conceived as one that reflected actual operating costs, while the social fare should be adjusted to the population's ability to pay. The study proposed a replicable methodology for calculating the technical fare, considering variables such as travel speed, cost per kilometre and demand elasticity. Finally, it concluded that a fair fare system should balance operational efficiency and social equity, and that the state had a responsibility to guarantee universal access to public transport as part of its social function.
Copyright (c) 2023 Roberto Ulises Estrada Meza (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Urban Mobility and Social Justice: public transport in the Guadalajara metropolitan area, Mexico
The study analysed public transport as a strategic public policy, fundamental to sustainable urban development. Academic sources from 1960 to 2020 were reviewed, focusing on economic, social, technological and urban aspects. The analysis showed that the efficiency of the system depends on factors such as ownership structure, fare policy and user perception. The research addressed operating revenues and costs, highlighting that fare setting should consider social equity criteria in addition to technical and financial criteria. The relationship between service quality and profitability was also studied, concluding that certain variables, such as safety, improved profitability, while others, such as negative user perception, decreased it. The social value of time was presented as key to assessing the efficiency and equity of the system, highlighting the need to reduce waiting and travel times. Financing and subsidies were identified as essential mechanisms for ensuring financial sustainability without compromising the social function of transport. The implementation of prepaid smart card systems was positively evaluated for their efficiency and ability to generate useful data for planning. Finally, it was emphasised that the sustainability of public transport depends on its integration with urban policies aimed at traffic, electrification, densification and territorial equity. It was concluded that a strategic vision, based on evidence, citizen participation and intersectoral cooperation, is crucial for building more inclusive and liveable cities.
Copyright (c) 2023 Roberto Ulises Estrada Meza, Mario Guadalupe González Pérez (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Characterisation of fair and sustainable technical fares for public transport in the Guadalajara metropolitan area, Mexico. Case study: Troncal 05. López Mateos
The study analysed the technical fare of the Integrated Transport Model ‘Mi Transporte’ on Trunk Road 05. López Mateos in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area (AMG). Using a quantitative and econometric methodology, the cost structure, revenue and demand elasticities of the system were characterised. The analysis revealed that, with a current fare of MXN $9.50, daily revenues of MXN $707,128 were generated, which covered operating costs with a 15% margin for transport operators. However, the economic evaluation showed a negative Net Present Value (NPV) and an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) below the Minimum Acceptable Rate of Return (MARR), so investment in the configurations analysed (diesel or CNG) was not recommended. The research also estimated differentiated social fares based on user income, showing that a large part of the population spends between 13% and 48% of their income on transport, evidencing a disproportionate burden on low-income households. Furthermore, it was concluded that the route-company model, although more efficient than the old ‘man-truck’ scheme, requires subsidies and more equitable fare policies to ensure sustainability and accessibility. Finally, the adoption of progressive fares based on ability to pay was proposed, and the need to continue urban mobility studies to support public policy decisions that improve the quality of life in the AMG was emphasised.
Copyright (c) 2023 Roberto Ulises Estrada Meza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Urban mobility and accessibility. Design of a body support object for people with physical impairments: Design for personal urban mobility
Urban mobility for disabled people in Córdoba reveals an importance lack of infrastructure in order to make feel more comfortable and safer when they go through the city. The main purpose of this project is to design a body support object which bring a solution to exceed all the physical urban and furniture barriers that disabled people have. Given the importance of this topic around the world, we considered how we could create a solution to improve their mobility and even recover after surgery that these people have to deal daily. The present investigation, we analyzed the different difficulties that a person with reduced mobility has. We found that not only the lack of infrastructure and accessibility in urban areas generate difficulties to them but also the oversize of the objects used for mobilization. Regarding this, when asked, people answered that using certain orthopedic objects bring others physical damages to other parts of the body, limiting more their daily activities and having to depend on the help of other person. After this, we carried out an analysis of existing products in the market, which gave us a guideline on how to deal with the problems posed. Then, we took certain qualities of other products that are introduced to other non-health areas. Finally, as a result of the research, a proposal was obtained an orthopedic crutches that directly benefits people with a particular physical deficiency, whether temporary or permanent, so that they have the possibility of improving their mobility and even their recovery, and in this way have a better quality of life.
Copyright (c) 2022 Francisco Mañá Balbastro, Eliana Armayor (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Accessibility and body supports: towards a more inclusive society
Introduction: Throughout history, humanity has sought to transform its environment through architectural products and spaces, although for centuries it ignored the needs of people with disabilities. This panorama changed in the 1980s, when Ronald L. Mace introduced the concept of Universal Design, which proposed the creation of accessible environments for all. In Argentina, the enactment of Law No. 24.314 in 1994 marked a milestone by establishing accessibility as an essential condition for autonomy. However, INDEC studies in 2018 showed that more than 10% of the population presented some difficulty, mainly motor, evidencing the urgency of inclusive policies. Development: the Argentine State promoted urban, architectural and transportation plans to ensure inclusion, in addition to censuses and regulations that sized the problem. However, cities such as Córdoba reflected the persistence of architectural barriers: non-existent ramps, steep slopes and inadequate furniture. These limitations hindered mobility and social integration, affecting not only movement, but also access to education, health and employment. The research distinguished between impairment, disability and ambulatory capacity, highlighting the role of body support objects. Also, concepts such as ergonomics, biomechanics, anthropometry and comfort guided the design of devices that sought to improve the quality of life and safety of people with reduced mobility. Conclusions: The analysis showed that inclusion did not depend solely on individual physical condition, but on the social and architectural barriers imposed by society. Overcoming these limitations required transforming collective awareness into concrete actions. The creation of adequate body supports and the enforcement of effective regulations were recognized as essential steps towards full inclusion.
Feasibility analysis of the monorail as an alternative form of mass transportation in Córdoba
The study analyzed the technical and financial feasibility of implementing an elevated monorail system in the city of Córdoba and its metropolitan area as an innovative alternative to the limitations of existing public transportation. The research was conducted using a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. Interviews were conducted with stakeholders from the public and private sectors, as well as focus groups with users, which allowed for the identification of weaknesses, strengths, and opportunities for improvement in the current transportation system. The analysis revealed that Córdoba's urban transportation system had structural problems resulting from disorderly growth, overuse of private vehicles, and the inefficiency of urban buses and trolleybuses. These factors caused congestion, pollution, high social costs, and a decline in citizens' quality of life. Given this scenario, the elevated monorail was evaluated as a sustainable, safe option with greater carrying capacity, as well as environmental benefits and shorter travel times. When compared to other alternatives, such as the subway and commuter rail, the monorail performed better in terms of construction speed, investment per kilometer, operational flexibility, and economic efficiency. It also stood out for its ability to adapt to the urban landscape and its feasibility of financing through public-private partnerships. In conclusion, the study determined that the implementation of the elevated monorail represented a viable and strategic solution to improve mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote sustainable urban development in Córdoba and its metropolitan area.
Copyright (c) 2022 Gabriel Raúl Bermúdez , Walter Robledo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Strategic planning in the sugar agribusiness: the case of Ledesma
Introduction: The study analyzed strategic planning as an essential resource to guide the growth of organizations. It was emphasized that this process was not limited to a projection, but integrated long-term objectives with immediate decisions. In agro-industrial sectors, such as the Argentine sugar-alcohol industry, such planning acquired special relevance due to the nature of commodities, where cost leadership was essential to ensure sustainability. Development: The context of the Ledesma company in Argentina was examined through tools such as PESTEL analysis, Porter's Five Forces model and the value chain. It was observed that the macroeconomic and political environment exerted strong pressures on competitiveness, while post-pandemic social changes generated new demands for more sustainable and digital consumption. It was also noted that technological innovation, with the incorporation of artificial intelligence, big data and precision agriculture, offered opportunities to optimize processes and respond to environmental demands. The analysis of the microenvironment showed a high level of rivalry among competitors and the growing threat of substitutes linked to healthy consumption trends. Internally, Ledesma consolidated competitive advantages thanks to its vertical integration, diversification and investment in innovation, human resources and social responsibility. Conclusions: The paper concluded that strategic planning should be understood as a dynamic and adaptive process. In the sugar agribusiness, the key lay in articulating operational efficiency with innovation and sustainability, thus ensuring resilient and competitive companies in the face of changing environments.
Copyright (c) 2022 Federico German Gamero , Claudia Navas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Technical, economic, and financial feasibility study: elevated monorail for the city of Córdoba and its metropolitan área
The study focused on analyzing the technical, economic, and financial feasibility of implementing an elevated monorail system in the city of Córdoba and its metropolitan area as an alternative form of mass transportation in response to growing traffic congestion and the inefficiency of the current bus system. The research was conducted using a mixed approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques, through interviews, focus groups, and review of documentary and statistical sources. The results highlighted that the elevated monorail offered significant technical advantages, such as small stations, reduced curve radii, flexible transport capacity, low noise levels, and the possibility of automation. From a financial standpoint, the project had an estimated total cost of $1.007 billion, considerably less than the subway alternative. The economic analysis yielded a positive Net Present Value (NPV) of $97.7 million and an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 43.45%, indicating its viability and profitability. In terms of social impact, it was concluded that the monorail represented an opportunity to improve urban mobility, reduce travel times, decrease environmental pollution, and optimize the quality of life for residents. Likewise, its implementation promoted social inclusion by ensuring accessibility and introducing competition into a transportation market dominated by a few bus companies. The project was considered feasible and beneficial from a technical, financial, and social standpoint.
Copyright (c) 2022 Gabriel Raúl Bermúdez, Walter Robledo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Multimodal transportation implementation project for Ledesma SAAI's “Sugar” business area
In the current ultra-competitive world in which we live, in which cents of difference can leave you out of the market and that the company Ledesma SAAI is found and is not exempt, it is that this case report is developed, which through strategic planning and having carried out a situation analysis, in which the conclusion is reached that the sugar market is a mature market, that it follows population growth trends, that the largest center of consumption is more than 1,600 km from the production plant, and which behaves like a commodity, seeks to generate a cost leadership strategy, taking advantage of its leadership position and its economy of scale, maintaining the same level of service and quality that characterize it, generating a comparative advantage that represents higher profits. To achieve this, the implementation of a multimodal logistics (truck-train-barge) is proposed, which after the financial analysis and its respective indicators, the NPV, the IRR and the ROI, we conclude that it is viable.
Copyright (c) 2023 Federico German Gamero , Claudia Navas (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Sustainable urban mobility: evaluation of the monorail as a transportation alternative in Córdoba
The study analyzed the feasibility of implementing an elevated monorail system in the city of Córdoba as a response to urban mobility challenges. It started from the premise that mobility was not limited to the simple transportation of people, but also involved the organization of public space, social equity, and environmental sustainability. The research integrated concepts of mobility, accessibility, intermodality, and sustainable development, considering both strategic planning and citizen perception. It emphasized that accessibility should be understood as a right, ensuring that everyone could access services and opportunities without physical or social restrictions. The monorail was presented as an alternative that would not only improve connectivity but also promote the inclusion of vulnerable sectors. Intermodality was also considered essential, given that the new system had to be coordinated with buses, bicycles, taxis, and other modes of transport to optimize the user experience and reduce social and environmental costs. The analysis also highlighted the importance of sustainability, emphasizing that the monorail could help reduce traffic congestion and pollutant emissions, ensuring a more rational use of urban space. Similarly, it raised the need to evaluate social profitability, understood as the equitable distribution of benefits and their long-term impact on quality of life. Consumer behavior was recognized as a key factor, as acceptance of the system depended on perceptions of safety, comfort, and efficiency. In conclusion, the study noted that the viability of the monorail should be evaluated from a comprehensive perspective that transcended technical and financial considerations in order to establish it as an inclusive, sustainable, and innovative project.
Copyright (c) 2023 Gabriel Raúl Bermúdez , Walter Robledo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Implementation of a Process-Based Quality Management System
Introduction: The research addressed the design and implementation of a Quality Management System (QMS) in accordance with ISO 9001:2015, considering its importance in the contemporary organizational context. Quality was recognized as a fundamental strategic axis for improving competitiveness, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction in a globalized environment. Development: The study focused on the principles, structures, and tools required by the standard, such as process maps, flowcharts, the PEPSC model, and the distinction between process and procedure. The types of processes—strategic, operational, and support—and their relationship to the value chain were identified. The basic elements of a process, process management, and the regulatory requirements distributed throughout the chapters of ISO 9001:2015 were also addressed. The process-based approach allowed activities to be organized in a logical, measurable, and results-oriented manner, strengthening quality control. Conclusions: It was concluded that the ISO 9001:2015 standard is an effective tool for structuring organizational processes, improving institutional performance, and establishing a cycle of continuous improvement. Leadership, planning, adequate support, and staff participation were key factors in the sustainability of the implemented system. The standardization of procedures and process management provided a solid foundation for auditing, evaluating, and optimizing operations, consolidating a culture of comprehensive quality.
Algorithmic Governance in Urban Mobility: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Public Transport Decision Making
The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping urban mobility governance, promising unprecedented optimization in public transport decision-making. This transition to "algorithmic governance" raises questions about its real impact beyond operational efficiency. The objective of this study is to critically analyze the scientific literature (2020-2025) to assess the balance between techno-economic advances and socio-political challenges (equity, transparency, and accountability) in the implementation of AI in public transport management. A systematic literature review (SLR) methodology was implemented under the PRISMA protocol. Eighty-nine articles extracted from Scopus and Web of Science were analyzed using critical thematic analysis to identify dominant paradigms and research gaps. The results reveal a hegemonic bias (85% of the studies) toward "technological solutionism," focused on route optimization and the reduction of operating costs (Ye & Hu, 2023). There is a severe lack of research on algorithmic auditing mechanisms and participatory governance frameworks. We conclude that the inherent opacity (the "black box" problem) and the prioritization of efficiency over social equity (Höglund, 2023) are generating new forms of digital exclusion and weakening public decision-making sovereignty. Academia is urged to reorient research toward algorithmic justice in mobility.
Copyright (c) 2025 Leider Inocencio Saraiba Núñez, Orlando Figueredo Maldonado (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Active Transport Infrastructure in Peripheral Zones: An Integrated Approach to Urban Equity and Sustainability
Active transport infrastructure including pedestrian and cycling networks is essential to promote urban equity and sustainability, especially in peripheral zones marked by social vulnerability and structural limitations. In the Cuban context, where territorial disparities and infrastructure obsolescence persist, rethinking inclusive mobility models becomes urgent.Objective: This article aims to analyze, through a systematic review, the trends, approaches, and theoretical gaps surrounding active transport infrastructure in peripheral zones, emphasizing its contribution to territorial equity and urban sustainability in Cuba. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using databases such as Scopus, Redalyc, SciELO, and Google Scholar, focusing on publications from 2018 to 2023. Inclusion criteria targeted studies on urban planning, sustainable mobility, territorial equity, and spatial justice. A thematic analysis matrix and conceptual mapping tools were used to synthesize findings. Results: The review revealed a lack of Cuban studies focused on peripheral zones, with technical approaches dominating the discourse. Five key categories emerged: accessibility, connectivity, community participation, infrastructural resilience, and spatial justice. International studies offer replicable models, though contextual adaptation is required. An integrated analytical framework is proposed, linking physical, social, and environmental dimensions.
Macrobus and urban mobility: challenges and achievements in the ZMG
Introduction: Urban mobility represented a priority challenge for the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area (ZMG), due to its accelerated territorial growth and intensive automobile use. The implementation of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, known as Macrobús, emerged as a response to the need for efficient and sustainable public transportation, inspired by models such as Curitiba and Bogotá. Development: The Government of Jalisco promoted the Macrobús during the period 2007-2012 as a low-cost alternative to the subway or light rail. The system was adapted to local conditions with exclusive lanes, prepaid stations and articulated units that reduced travel times and polluting emissions. The use of ultra-low sulfur diesel and automated fare collection improved efficiency. However, the model faced obstacles such as low urban density, politicization of technical decisions and limited citizen participation. Statistical analysis showed that, despite its benefits, BRT consolidation also depended on integration with other transport modes and coherent governance. Conclusions: The BRT system positioned itself as a viable solution for the ZMG by offering concrete improvements in mobility, sustainability and accessibility. Although it did not completely replace other modes, it did represent a cost-efficient option adapted to local conditions. Its success, as in other Latin American cities, depended on comprehensive planning, political will and social acceptance. In short, the Macrobús strengthened the foundations for a more equitable and efficient transportation model in Guadalajara.
Impact of the macrobus line on users' origin-destination travel times and costs, guadalajara metropolitan area, 2012
Introduction: We analyzed the impact of the BRT system, Macrobús, on origin-destination (O-D) costs and travel times in the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area (ZMG), considering individual characteristics of users and their frequency of use. Methods: They applied an O-D survey to 384 users over 15 years of age in May 2012, in the 27 stations of the corridor. They used Aschman's method and software such as SPSS, STATA and Excel for processing. They classified users into low, medium and high frequency. They evaluated variables such as gender, age, income, transfer time and cost, perception of service, and number of transfers. Results: They determined that 66.41% of the users reported shorter travel time after the implementation of the Macrobús. A total of 85.16% did not perceive an increase in costs, and only 14.84% did. Most of the users were women, young and low-income. They confirmed statistically significant associations between frequency of use and variables such as occupation, monthly income, travel time and number of transfers. However, there was no significant association with age, sex, schooling or perception of the service. Conclusions: They confirmed that the Macrobús system reduced commute times and had a minimal economic impact for the majority. They concluded that public policies are needed to strengthen multimodal transportation integration and promote intermunicipal connectivity. The objective of the study was met by demonstrating the positive impact of the system based on the characteristics and frequency of use of the users.