What Makes A Good Transportation System? A robust transportation system is essential for a thriving community, ensuring mobility and accessibility for all. Worldtransport.net delves into the key elements, offering insights and solutions for building effective transport networks. Explore diverse transit options, infrastructure development, and policy considerations for a sustainable future.
1. What Are The Core Characteristics Of A Good Transportation System?
A good transportation system is connective, convenient, consistent, comfortable, cost-effective, customer-friendly, and clean. These seven “C’s,” as ITDP refers to them, ensure a system that meets diverse needs, reduces pollution, and promotes accessibility.
- Connective: Comprehensive networks with frequent service, even during off-peak hours, minimize wait times and provide access to nearly all city areas.
- Convenient: Accessibility for all, including individuals with disabilities, seniors, women, and those traveling with children or goods, is vital.
- Consistent: Reliable service ensures predictable travel times, enhancing the ability of people to reach destinations.
- Comfortable: Safe operations that prioritize the safety of all road users, especially vulnerable ones such as pedestrians and cyclists.
- Cost-Effective: Affordable fares enable regular use by almost everyone, with minimal additional costs for transfers between modes.
- Customer-Friendly: Easy-to-understand and navigate systems improve the user experience and encourage ridership.
- Clean: Services that minimize or eliminate pollution, reducing environmental impact and improving air quality.
Expanding on these qualities strengthens the support a transport system can offer to its passengers. According to the USDOT, prioritizing these characteristics leads to more sustainable and equitable transportation outcomes.
2. How Does A Good Transportation System Benefit A Community?
A well-designed transportation system enhances economic vitality, improves social equity, and promotes environmental sustainability. According to the BTS, areas with efficient transportation networks experience higher job growth and economic productivity.
2.1 Economic Benefits
Efficient transportation reduces commute times, lowers business costs, and improves access to jobs and markets. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce notes that investing in transportation infrastructure yields significant economic returns.
2.2 Social Benefits
Accessible public transport provides mobility for low-income individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities, fostering social inclusion. Research from the University of Illinois Chicago highlights that improved transportation access correlates with better health outcomes and educational opportunities.
2.3 Environmental Benefits
Sustainable transportation options such as public transit, cycling, and walking reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. The EPA emphasizes that shifting towards greener transportation modes is crucial for mitigating climate change.
3. What Role Does Technology Play In Modern Transportation Systems?
Technology enhances efficiency, safety, and user experience through innovations like real-time tracking, smart ticketing, and autonomous vehicles. According to a report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), integrating technology into transportation systems can reduce energy consumption and emissions.
3.1 Real-Time Tracking
GPS-enabled tracking systems provide accurate arrival and departure times, allowing passengers to plan their journeys effectively.
3.2 Smart Ticketing
Contactless payment systems and mobile ticketing apps streamline fare collection and reduce wait times.
3.3 Autonomous Vehicles
Self-driving cars and buses promise to improve safety, reduce congestion, and provide mobility for those unable to drive. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is actively developing regulations to ensure the safe deployment of autonomous vehicles.
4. How Can Cities Prioritize Sustainable Transportation?
Cities can prioritize sustainable transportation by investing in public transit, promoting cycling and walking, and implementing policies that discourage private vehicle use. As highlighted in the Sustainable Transport Magazine, cities must create robust transport infrastructure that acknowledges the diverse needs of their populations.
4.1 Investing In Public Transit
Expanding bus and rail networks, improving service frequency, and ensuring accessibility are crucial for attracting riders. The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) advocates for increased federal funding to support public transit projects.
4.2 Promoting Cycling And Walking
Building bike lanes, pedestrian walkways, and creating bike-sharing programs encourage active transportation. The League of American Bicyclists promotes policies and infrastructure that make cycling safer and more convenient.
4.3 Implementing Policies
Congestion pricing, parking restrictions, and incentives for using public transit can discourage private vehicle use. New York City’s congestion pricing plan, for example, aims to reduce traffic in Manhattan while generating revenue for transit improvements.
5. What Is Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) And Why Is It Important?
BRT is a high-quality bus-based transit system that delivers fast, efficient, and reliable service, offering a cost-effective alternative to rail. ITDP emphasizes that well-built and maintained BRT systems can provide all the elements of an inclusive, quality public transport system.
5.1 Key Features Of BRT
- Dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic congestion
- Level boarding for quick and easy access
- Off-board fare collection to reduce boarding times
- High-frequency service to minimize wait times
- Comfortable and modern buses
5.2 Benefits Of BRT
- Cost-effective compared to rail systems
- Quick implementation to address urgent transportation needs
- High capacity to move large numbers of people
- Flexibility to adapt to changing urban environments
5.3 Examples Of Successful BRT Systems
- Transmilenio (Bogotá, Colombia): A pioneering BRT system that has transformed the city’s mobility landscape.
- TransJakarta (Jakarta, Indonesia): The world’s longest BRT system, serving a vast metropolitan area.
- Pulse BRT (Richmond, Virginia): A successful US example that has exceeded ridership expectations.
6. How Can Transportation Systems Be More Equitable?
Equitable transportation systems prioritize the needs of marginalized communities, ensuring access to jobs, education, and essential services. According to the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), transportation equity is achieved when all communities have access to affordable, reliable, and safe transportation options.
6.1 Addressing Transportation Deserts
Transportation deserts are areas with limited access to public transit, often affecting low-income and minority communities. Strategies to address this include:
- Extending bus routes to underserved areas
- Providing subsidized fares for low-income riders
- Implementing community shuttle services
6.2 Ensuring Accessibility
Making transportation systems accessible to people with disabilities is essential. This includes:
- Equipping buses and trains with ramps and lifts
- Providing audible and visual information
- Training staff to assist passengers with disabilities
6.3 Engaging Communities
Involving community members in the planning process ensures that transportation projects meet their needs and preferences. The USDOT encourages transportation agencies to conduct outreach and engagement activities to gather input from diverse stakeholders.
7. What Are The Challenges Facing Transportation Systems Today?
Transportation systems face numerous challenges, including funding shortages, aging infrastructure, and increasing congestion. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) gives America’s infrastructure a grade of C-, indicating a need for significant investment and improvements.
7.1 Funding Shortages
Many transportation agencies struggle with inadequate funding to maintain and expand their systems. The Transportation Investment Advocacy Center (TIAC) promotes increased investment in transportation infrastructure at all levels of government.
7.2 Aging Infrastructure
Roads, bridges, and transit systems are deteriorating, requiring costly repairs and replacements. The FHWA estimates that billions of dollars are needed to address the backlog of infrastructure maintenance needs.
7.3 Increasing Congestion
Urban areas are experiencing increasing traffic congestion, leading to delays, pollution, and economic losses. INRIX Research provides data and analysis on traffic congestion trends and their impacts.
7.4 Environmental Concerns
The transportation sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. The ICCT provides research and analysis on policies to reduce emissions from the transportation sector.
8. How Does Urban Planning Impact Transportation?
Urban planning plays a crucial role in shaping transportation patterns and promoting sustainable mobility. According to the APA, integrating transportation planning with land use planning is essential for creating livable and sustainable communities.
8.1 Mixed-Use Development
Creating mixed-use neighborhoods that combine residential, commercial, and recreational areas reduces the need for long-distance travel.
8.2 Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)
Concentrating development around transit stations encourages the use of public transit and reduces reliance on private vehicles. Reconnecting America promotes TOD as a strategy for creating vibrant, equitable, and sustainable communities.
8.3 Complete Streets
Designing streets that accommodate all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders, promotes safety and accessibility. The National Complete Streets Coalition advocates for policies and practices that prioritize complete streets.
9. What Policies Can Improve Transportation Systems?
Effective policies can promote sustainable transportation, reduce congestion, and improve equity. The Eno Center for Transportation provides analysis and recommendations on transportation policy issues.
9.1 Congestion Pricing
Charging drivers a fee to use roads during peak hours can reduce congestion and generate revenue for transportation improvements.
9.2 Parking Management
Implementing parking restrictions and pricing strategies can discourage private vehicle use and encourage the use of public transit.
9.3 Transit Subsidies
Providing subsidies to transit agencies can help lower fares and improve service quality, attracting more riders.
9.4 Incentives For Electric Vehicles
Offering tax credits, rebates, and other incentives can encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, reducing emissions.
10. How Can Data Analytics Improve Transportation Systems?
Data analytics can provide insights into travel patterns, identify bottlenecks, and optimize transportation operations. According to a report by McKinsey, data-driven transportation systems can improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
10.1 Traffic Monitoring
Using sensors and cameras to monitor traffic flow can help identify congestion hotspots and optimize traffic signal timing.
10.2 Ridership Analysis
Analyzing ridership data can help transit agencies understand travel patterns and adjust service levels accordingly.
10.3 Predictive Modeling
Using predictive models to forecast traffic demand can help transportation agencies plan for future needs and optimize infrastructure investments.
11. What Are Some Innovative Transportation Solutions?
Innovative transportation solutions such as micro-mobility, ride-sharing, and urban air mobility are emerging to address urban transportation challenges. The World Economic Forum explores innovative transportation solutions and their potential impacts.
11.1 Micro-Mobility
Shared scooters and bikes provide convenient and affordable transportation options for short trips.
11.2 Ride-Sharing
Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft can reduce the need for private vehicle ownership and improve mobility.
11.3 Urban Air Mobility
Electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft offer the potential to revolutionize urban transportation by providing fast and efficient air travel.
12. How Can Transportation Systems Adapt To Climate Change?
Transportation systems must adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as sea-level rise, extreme weather events, and increased temperatures. The IPCC emphasizes that reducing emissions from the transportation sector is crucial for mitigating climate change.
12.1 Infrastructure Resilience
Designing transportation infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events, such as floods and hurricanes.
12.2 Reducing Emissions
Transitioning to electric vehicles, promoting public transit, and encouraging active transportation can reduce emissions from the transportation sector.
12.3 Planning For Sea-Level Rise
Developing strategies to protect transportation infrastructure from sea-level rise, such as elevating roads and building seawalls.
13. How Do Different Countries Approach Transportation Planning?
Different countries have adopted various approaches to transportation planning, reflecting their unique circumstances and priorities.
13.1 The Netherlands
The Netherlands prioritizes cycling and public transit, with extensive bike lane networks and high-quality public transit systems.
13.2 Singapore
Singapore has implemented a comprehensive approach to transportation planning, including congestion pricing, parking restrictions, and investments in public transit.
13.3 Japan
Japan is known for its efficient and reliable public transit systems, including high-speed rail and extensive subway networks.
14. What Is The Future Of Transportation?
The future of transportation will be shaped by technological advancements, sustainability concerns, and changing urban landscapes.
14.1 Electrification
The transition to electric vehicles is expected to accelerate, reducing emissions and improving air quality.
14.2 Automation
Autonomous vehicles have the potential to revolutionize transportation by improving safety, reducing congestion, and providing mobility for those unable to drive.
14.3 Integration
Transportation systems will become more integrated, with seamless connections between different modes of transport.
15. How Can Public-Private Partnerships Improve Transportation?
Public-private partnerships (PPPs) can leverage private sector expertise and capital to deliver transportation projects more efficiently. The National Council for Public-Private Partnerships (NCPPP) promotes the use of PPPs to address infrastructure needs.
15.1 Benefits Of PPPs
- Access to private sector capital and expertise
- Risk sharing between public and private sectors
- Faster project delivery
15.2 Challenges Of PPPs
- Complexity of contract negotiations
- Potential for conflicts of interest
- Need for strong oversight to ensure public benefits
16. What Are The Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) For Transportation Systems?
Key performance indicators (KPIs) are used to measure the performance of transportation systems and track progress towards achieving goals.
16.1 Ridership
The number of passengers using public transit is a key indicator of system utilization and effectiveness.
16.2 On-Time Performance
The percentage of buses and trains that arrive on time is an indicator of system reliability.
16.3 Safety
The number of accidents and injuries is a key indicator of system safety.
16.4 Congestion
The level of traffic congestion is an indicator of system efficiency.
16.5 Emissions
The amount of greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation sector is an indicator of environmental sustainability.
17. How Can Transportation Systems Be More User-Friendly?
Making transportation systems more user-friendly can attract more riders and improve the overall travel experience.
17.1 Clear Signage
Providing clear and easy-to-understand signage can help passengers navigate the system.
17.2 Real-Time Information
Providing real-time information on arrival and departure times can help passengers plan their journeys effectively.
17.3 Comfortable Waiting Areas
Providing comfortable and safe waiting areas can improve the passenger experience.
17.4 Easy Fare Payment
Offering multiple fare payment options, including contactless payment and mobile ticketing, can make it easier for passengers to pay their fares.
18. What Role Does Government Play In Transportation?
Government plays a crucial role in transportation, including planning, funding, regulation, and oversight.
18.1 Planning
Government agencies are responsible for planning transportation systems and setting priorities for infrastructure investments.
18.2 Funding
Government provides funding for transportation projects through taxes, fees, and grants.
18.3 Regulation
Government regulates the transportation sector to ensure safety, environmental protection, and fair competition.
18.4 Oversight
Government provides oversight to ensure that transportation projects are delivered efficiently and effectively.
19. How Can Transportation Systems Support Economic Development?
Transportation systems can support economic development by improving access to jobs, markets, and resources.
19.1 Improving Access To Jobs
Providing reliable and affordable transportation options can help people access employment opportunities.
19.2 Connecting Businesses To Markets
Efficient transportation systems can help businesses connect to customers and suppliers.
19.3 Attracting Investment
High-quality transportation systems can attract businesses and investment to a region.
20. How Can Transportation Systems Be More Resilient To Disasters?
Transportation systems must be resilient to disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and terrorist attacks.
20.1 Redundancy
Building redundant transportation infrastructure can ensure that there are alternative routes available in case of a disruption.
20.2 Emergency Response Plans
Developing emergency response plans can help transportation agencies respond quickly and effectively to disasters.
20.3 Risk Assessments
Conducting risk assessments can help identify vulnerabilities in the transportation system and prioritize investments in resilience.
21. What Are The Challenges Of Implementing New Transportation Technologies?
Implementing new transportation technologies can be challenging due to factors such as cost, regulatory hurdles, and public acceptance.
21.1 Cost
New transportation technologies can be expensive to develop and deploy.
21.2 Regulatory Hurdles
New transportation technologies may face regulatory hurdles due to safety concerns and lack of established standards.
21.3 Public Acceptance
The public may be resistant to new transportation technologies due to safety concerns, privacy concerns, or lack of familiarity.
22. How Can Transportation Systems Be More Accessible To Seniors?
Making transportation systems more accessible to seniors is essential for promoting their mobility and independence.
22.1 Low-Floor Buses
Using low-floor buses with ramps can make it easier for seniors to board and disembark.
22.2 Longer Crossing Times
Providing longer crossing times at intersections can give seniors more time to cross the street safely.
22.3 Senior Discounts
Offering senior discounts on public transit can make it more affordable for them to use the system.
23. How Can Transportation Systems Be More Bicycle-Friendly?
Making transportation systems more bicycle-friendly can encourage cycling and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
23.1 Bike Lanes
Building bike lanes can provide cyclists with a safe and dedicated space to ride.
23.2 Bike Parking
Providing bike parking facilities can make it more convenient for people to cycle to their destinations.
23.3 Bike-Sharing Programs
Implementing bike-sharing programs can provide people with access to bicycles for short trips.
24. How Can Transportation Systems Be More Pedestrian-Friendly?
Making transportation systems more pedestrian-friendly can encourage walking and improve the safety and accessibility of urban areas.
24.1 Sidewalks
Providing sidewalks along all streets can ensure that pedestrians have a safe place to walk.
24.2 Crosswalks
Marking crosswalks at intersections can help pedestrians cross the street safely.
24.3 Pedestrian Signals
Installing pedestrian signals can give pedestrians a dedicated time to cross the street.
25. What Are The Environmental Impacts Of Transportation?
Transportation has significant environmental impacts, including air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and noise pollution.
25.1 Air Pollution
Transportation is a major source of air pollution, which can harm human health and the environment.
25.2 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change.
25.3 Noise Pollution
Transportation can generate noise pollution, which can disrupt sleep and cause stress.
26. How Can Transportation Systems Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions?
Transportation systems can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to electric vehicles, promoting public transit, and encouraging active transportation.
26.1 Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
26.2 Public Transit
Public transit can carry large numbers of people in a single vehicle, reducing the number of vehicles on the road and lowering emissions.
26.3 Active Transportation
Walking and cycling produce zero emissions and provide health benefits.
27. What Are The Social Impacts Of Transportation?
Transportation has significant social impacts, including access to jobs, education, and healthcare.
27.1 Access To Jobs
Transportation can provide access to employment opportunities, improving economic outcomes.
27.2 Access To Education
Transportation can provide access to educational opportunities, improving educational attainment.
27.3 Access To Healthcare
Transportation can provide access to healthcare services, improving health outcomes.
28. How Can Transportation Systems Be More Affordable?
Making transportation systems more affordable can improve access for low-income individuals and families.
28.1 Subsidized Fares
Providing subsidized fares for low-income riders can make public transit more affordable.
28.2 Free Transfers
Offering free transfers between different modes of transit can reduce the cost of travel.
28.3 Income-Based Fares
Implementing income-based fares can ensure that those with lower incomes pay less for transportation.
29. What Are The Ethical Considerations In Transportation Planning?
Transportation planning involves ethical considerations such as equity, fairness, and environmental stewardship.
29.1 Equity
Transportation planning should consider the needs of all members of society, including low-income individuals, minorities, and people with disabilities.
29.2 Fairness
Transportation planning should ensure that the benefits and burdens of transportation systems are distributed fairly.
29.3 Environmental Stewardship
Transportation planning should minimize the environmental impacts of transportation systems.
30. How Can Transportation Systems Be More Secure?
Transportation systems must be secure from terrorist attacks and other threats.
30.1 Surveillance
Installing surveillance cameras can help monitor transportation systems and deter criminal activity.
30.2 Security Screening
Conducting security screening at airports and other transportation hubs can help prevent terrorist attacks.
30.3 Emergency Response Plans
Developing emergency response plans can help transportation agencies respond quickly and effectively to security threats.
31. What Are The Legal Issues In Transportation?
Transportation involves legal issues such as liability, regulation, and environmental protection.
31.1 Liability
Transportation companies can be held liable for accidents and injuries.
31.2 Regulation
Transportation is subject to government regulation to ensure safety, environmental protection, and fair competition.
31.3 Environmental Protection
Transportation is subject to environmental laws to protect air and water quality.
32. How Can Transportation Systems Be More Integrated With Technology?
Transportation systems can be more integrated with technology through the use of smart sensors, data analytics, and mobile apps.
32.1 Smart Sensors
Smart sensors can collect data on traffic flow, weather conditions, and other factors, providing real-time information to transportation agencies and travelers.
32.2 Data Analytics
Data analytics can be used to analyze transportation data and identify patterns and trends, helping transportation agencies make better decisions.
32.3 Mobile Apps
Mobile apps can provide travelers with real-time information on arrival and departure times, traffic conditions, and other factors.
33. What Are The Workforce Needs In The Transportation Sector?
The transportation sector has a growing need for skilled workers in areas such as engineering, planning, and technology.
33.1 Engineering
Transportation engineers are needed to design and build transportation infrastructure.
33.2 Planning
Transportation planners are needed to plan and manage transportation systems.
33.3 Technology
Technicians are needed to maintain and repair transportation equipment and technology.
34. How Can Transportation Education And Training Be Improved?
Transportation education and training can be improved by providing more hands-on experience, incorporating new technologies, and addressing workforce needs.
34.1 Hands-On Experience
Providing students with hands-on experience through internships and apprenticeships can help them develop the skills they need to succeed in the transportation sector.
34.2 New Technologies
Incorporating new technologies into transportation education and training can help students prepare for the future of transportation.
34.3 Workforce Needs
Aligning transportation education and training with workforce needs can help ensure that the transportation sector has a skilled workforce.
35. What Are The Global Trends In Transportation?
Global trends in transportation include urbanization, technological innovation, and sustainability concerns.
35.1 Urbanization
Urbanization is increasing the demand for transportation in cities around the world.
35.2 Technological Innovation
Technological innovation is transforming the transportation sector, with the emergence of new technologies such as electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and ride-sharing.
35.3 Sustainability Concerns
Sustainability concerns are driving the development of more sustainable transportation systems.
36. How Can Transportation Systems Support Tourism?
Transportation systems can support tourism by providing access to tourist attractions, improving the travel experience, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
36.1 Access To Tourist Attractions
Transportation systems can provide access to tourist attractions, making it easier for tourists to visit them.
36.2 Improving The Travel Experience
Transportation systems can improve the travel experience by providing comfortable and reliable transportation options.
36.3 Promoting Sustainable Tourism Practices
Transportation systems can promote sustainable tourism practices by encouraging the use of public transit, cycling, and walking.
37. How Can Transportation Systems Support Public Health?
Transportation systems can support public health by reducing air pollution, promoting physical activity, and improving access to healthcare services.
37.1 Reducing Air Pollution
Transportation systems can reduce air pollution by transitioning to electric vehicles, promoting public transit, and encouraging active transportation.
37.2 Promoting Physical Activity
Transportation systems can promote physical activity by encouraging walking and cycling.
37.3 Improving Access To Healthcare Services
Transportation systems can improve access to healthcare services by providing reliable and affordable transportation options.
38. How Can Transportation Systems Be More Resilient To Cyber Attacks?
Transportation systems must be resilient to cyber attacks, which can disrupt transportation services and compromise safety.
38.1 Security Protocols
Implementing strong security protocols can help protect transportation systems from cyber attacks.
38.2 Incident Response Plans
Developing incident response plans can help transportation agencies respond quickly and effectively to cyber attacks.
38.3 Employee Training
Providing employees with training on cyber security can help them prevent and respond to cyber attacks.
Effective transportation hinges on connectivity, convenience, and consistency. By enhancing these seven “C’s”, cities can foster inclusive, efficient, and environmentally sound mobility. For more detailed insights, cutting-edge trends, and actionable solutions in the transportation sector, visit worldtransport.net. Explore our extensive library of articles and stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field.
FAQ: What Makes A Good Transportation System?
FAQ 1: What are the key elements of a good transportation system?
A good transportation system is connective, convenient, consistent, comfortable, cost-effective, customer-friendly, and clean, ensuring accessibility and sustainability.
FAQ 2: How does technology improve transportation systems?
Technology enhances efficiency, safety, and user experience through real-time tracking, smart ticketing, and autonomous vehicles.
FAQ 3: What is Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and why is it important?
BRT is a high-quality bus-based transit system that provides fast, efficient, and reliable service, offering a cost-effective alternative to rail.
FAQ 4: How can cities prioritize sustainable transportation?
Cities can prioritize sustainable transportation by investing in public transit, promoting cycling and walking, and implementing policies that discourage private vehicle use.
FAQ 5: What policies can improve transportation systems?
Effective policies include congestion pricing, parking management, transit subsidies, and incentives for electric vehicles.
FAQ 6: How can data analytics improve transportation systems?
Data analytics can provide insights into travel patterns, identify bottlenecks, and optimize transportation operations.
FAQ 7: How does urban planning impact transportation?
Urban planning shapes transportation patterns and promotes sustainable mobility through mixed-use development, transit-oriented development, and complete streets.
FAQ 8: What are the challenges facing transportation systems today?
Challenges include funding shortages, aging infrastructure, increasing congestion, and environmental concerns.
FAQ 9: How can public-private partnerships improve transportation?
PPPs can leverage private sector expertise and capital to deliver transportation projects more efficiently.
FAQ 10: What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for transportation systems?
KPIs include ridership, on-time performance, safety, congestion, and emissions.