The integration between the boundaries of online search and travel will become increasingly blurred to the point where the two activities are seamless.
For many people, satisfying their transportation intentions now starts with an online search (including mobile online search). Then there are two fulfilment paths to consider.
In one case, the intention is fulfilled by moving an item to the location specified by the person. This is handled extremely well by the logistics business space. There is room for evolution but, generally, it is a problem with excellent solutions. When the item required is digital in nature, the transportation is accomplished even more effectively by network / bandwidth provisioning companies (digital logistics).
In the other case, an intention requires the moving of a person to the specified location. This is handled neither particularly well nor seamlessly.
Assume I am a tourist looking for an attraction to visit in a foreign city. Normally I would use a (space-domain) map, figure out where the attraction was located, then figure out the transport options and how much the trip would cost. Finally, where necessary, I would try to match my itinerary to the relevant timetable(s)
Now with an evolved Texxi model, I would use my mobile communications device with either a time-location-domain map of attractions or a cost-location-domain map of attractions. These are maps which show loci based on either how long it takes to get there or how much it costs to get there. The actual distance is normally a secondary consideration: it is just that this usually has some reasonable relationship to travel time. The process can also allow for my preferences regarding modes of travel: e.g. will not fly, must include a trip by riverboat, etc.
Then we have the final and critical piece. I click on the map and instruct the DRT Exchange where I wish to go. Texxi (the Broker) takes care of the rest through its DRT Exchange activities and I am moved by a DRT Fulfilment Provider (shuttle, taxi, bus, private jet) from either directly where I am located or from nearby, with a group of people with a similar itinerary. This group is further filtered by behaviour/reputation parameters – so I am not accompanied by football hooligans.
This is 21st century travel. Effectively, “FedEx for People”.
