AI4DA in City Planning, Environment, Transportation + Logistics


At the AI Centre for Decision Analytics, we'll leverage AI and optimization techniques to provide solutions to help advance the communities in which we live, work and play. Every day of our life, we are using public infrastructures which are interconnected, and consuming products and services which are produced and distributed through complex networks of suppliers, carriers, producers, assemblers, wholesalers and retailers.

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Why Partner With AI4DA

City, transit and logistics teams work with AI4DA to plan smarter networks and operate more efficiently.

Access to expertise

Tap into AI-driven decision analytics research and expertise from the University of Alberta.

Researchers and trainees

Work directly with researchers and talented students on real operational problems.

Events and community

Join AI4DA events, speaker series and showcases that connect industry with the centre.

Flexible partnership levels

Choose the level of engagement that fits your goals, from first conversation to long-term collaboration.

At a Glance

$88B
Economic Powerhouse

Transportation contributes about 4.5% of Canada's GDP.

~1M
Jobs Generated

The sector is a major source of employment for Canadians.

16%
Household Spending

Transportation is the second-largest household expense after shelter.

~25%
Of Canada's GHG Emissions

Transportation is the second-largest source of emissions, mostly from on-road vehicles.

Challenges We Help Solve

1Services that don't match real demand?
Data analysis can help optimize bus routes, train schedules and other public transportation systems to enhance efficiency and coverage. Machine learning can be used to predict demand and adjust schedules in real-time to improve service quality.
2Customers waiting while capacity sits idle?
Data analysis and machine learning can help ride-sharing platforms match riders and drivers efficiently, reducing waiting times and improving service. They can also optimize driver routes to save time and fuel.
3Rising delivery costs and delays?
Data analysis and machine learning can optimize delivery routes, minimizing travel distances and improving delivery times. They can also predict demand for goods, helping companies manage inventory more effectively.
4Unplanned downtime and maintenance costs?
Data analysis can optimize the use of vehicle fleets, ensuring that they are used efficiently and maintained effectively. Machine learning can predict maintenance needs to prevent breakdowns and downtime.
5Hard decisions about where to invest and build?
Data analysis and machine learning can support urban planners in making data-driven decisions regarding land use, zoning, and the placement of public facilities. This helps create more efficient and livable cities. AI4DA develops and communicates knowledge on the design, management, operation, and safety of networks, as well as network technologies and environment.

Facing a mobility or logistics problem like these? Let us help you scope it.

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Current Projects

Local Crowd-Shipping Project

This project explores smart local crowd-shipping as a sustainable solution for the last-mile delivery challenge in cities, tapping into the existing travel patterns of everyday commuters to integrate parcel delivery into regular journeys between home, work or school. Robust optimization balances locker placement, compensation pricing and customer assignments against economic efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Project details
Faculty

Ways to Work With Us

Whether you are exploring a first project or building a long-term relationship, there are several ways to get involved.

Research collaboration

Co-develop research projects that turn your data and decisions into practical, evidence-based solutions.

Capstone and student projects

Bring a real problem to student teams and gain fresh analytical perspectives.

Workshops, seminars and hackathons

Co-host or join events that bring industry and researchers together.

Talent connections

Meet and recruit graduate students and trainees with advanced analytics skills.

Tackling a mobility or logistics challenge?

Tell us the problem and we'll help scope what is possible. No commitment required.

Start a Partnership