# Decentralized Public Transport Management System Based on Blockchain Technology +
## 2 Related Work and Background
### Related Works Summary  
Based on the literature study, some general trends and key features of blockchain implementation in transport management systems were identified. First, such systems emphasize a system's security based on their transparency. All transactions and phases of the logistics process are recorded in DLT. Secondly, blockchains are presented as a more secure enabler for open transport structures, such as intelligent transport systems. All system participants have access to complete ledger information, which increases the reliability and coherence of the system.  
Despite these advantages, integrating modern technology still requires tremendous efforts due to, e.g., high entry barriers and no obvious benefits from implementation. In addition to focusing on security and transparency, introducing smart contracts into logistics processes reduces transaction costs. In an economic sense, this plays a significant role only in large and long logistics chains. In contrast, using blockchains and smart contracts in the transportation processes of small- and medium-sized businesses primarily entails costs.  
To answer the questions raised and suggest a scenario for solving the problem of using blockchains in small- and medium-sized companies, it is necessary to study the technological process of developing and implementing blockchains in transport systems. Then, it is essential to propose simplifications of this process to maintain the key advantages of blockchain technology. To specify the task, a model of smart contracts will be used at a public transportation company, where a contract is set between the vehicle owner's company and a subcontractor, i.e., a maintenance/repair company. The entire chain of repairs and maintenance of the vehicle will be stored in the blockchain. It will always be possible to transparently track the causes of emergency situations.  
Comparing blockchains to other encryption algorithms, it becomes evident that blockchains stand out as a unique and highly suitable solution, especially in the realm of public transportation [36]. While traditional encryption methods ensure data security, blockchains provide an additional layer of confidence and transparency. In the public transportation sector, where efficient coordination and safety for millions of passengers are paramount, blockchains can serve as an ideal tool. Their decentralized nature and the impossibility of altering existing records guarantee reliability and protection against fraud. This makes blockchains an appealing solution for improving public transportation management systems, ensuring schedule accuracy, and enhancing passenger safety in this critical domain [37].  
To provide a structured overview of the existing research and enhance the visibility of key findings in blockchain applications for transportation systems, we present a comprehensive summary in Table 1. This table synthesizes the main application domains, their key features, implementation challenges, and corresponding references from the literature review. The summary demonstrates the diverse applications of blockchain technology in transportation while highlighting common challenges across different domains.  
Developing a new system should be accompanied by comparing its key characteristics with existing processes. The main goals of blockchain technology for the maintenance of public transport are the following:  
1. Reductions in maintenance costs and downtime due to the introduction of a more honest mechanism for monitoring vehicle resources;
2. Improving the fault tolerance of the overall transportation system through the predictable and realistic management of expectations for vehicle capabilities;
3. Increasing the level of data analytics and confidence in the framework of transport system management.