Browsing by Author "Nissi Shiyemba"

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    The role of Transport Management Systems in improving logistics efficiency: a case study of Link Bus Services
    (Uganda Christian University, 2026-05-11) Nissi Shiyemba
    This paper has discussed the importance of use of Transport Management Systems (TMS) in enhancing the efficiency of logistics of the Link Bus Services which is a leading passenger transport company in Uganda. Although digital tools are increasingly used in the transport industry, there is a paucity of empirical demonstrations regarding the actual benefits of TMS components of vehicle/bus tracking, route optimisation, fleet management and carrier (driver/ Schedule) management to on-time performance, cost reduction and passenger satisfaction in developing countries. The study was based on the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory and followed the descriptive case study design. The primary data were gathered using our self-administered questions, to 38 purposely sampled employees (95% response rate) who were the immediate participants in the logistics operation at the Link bus services. Analysis of the data was done by descriptive statistics (means and standard deviations) and Pearson correlation in SPSS. Results indicated high positive perceptions in all the TMS components, and a composite mean of 4.13 (SD = 0.68) on 5-point Likert scale. Vehicle/bus tracking had the highest score (mean = 4.24) and then fleet management (mean = 4.13). The positive and statistically significant relationships were observed between all components and the overall logistics efficiency (r = 0.76 to 0.81, p < 0.01), which proves that all four TMS elements are mutually supporting. Nevertheless, the respondents noted that there are still constant problems such as network instability, lack of training, hardware breakdown and high maintenance charges. The research finds that TMS is an important intervention at improving the logistics efficiency of Link Bus Services through increased visibility, optimisation and resource utilisation, which explains the RBV assumption of technological resources duly integrated to generate sustainable competitive advantage. Suggestions comprise network infrastructure upgradation, institutionalisation of periodic training of the staff, and the creation of specific TMS support. It is promoted that policymakers should create national TMS standards and also provide incentives on digital adoption in the passenger transport industry. The results have been added to the current sparse body of knowledge on the use of TMS in passenger transport sector in Uganda and offer a practical perspective towards transport operators who want to revamp operations as per Vision 2040 and NDP III. Keywords: Transport Management Systems, logistics performance, Vehicle tracking, route optimisation, fleet management, passenger transport, Uganda, Link Bus Services.