Introduction -- The Family of Vehicle Routing Problems -- The Dial-a-Ride Problem -- Profits in the Dial-a-Ride Problem -- Supplementary Services Provided by Dial-a-Ride Systems -- Minimum Collaboration in Dial-a-Ride Problems with Additional Services -- Summary.

Although the dial-a-ride problem currently plays a crucial role in providing transportation services to specific demographics such as the elderly, those with serious illnesses, or individuals with limited mobility due to disabilities, its potential impact on the overall mobility of the population remains underexplored. Surprisingly, the focus is often narrow, leaving potentials untapped and negatively impacting service providers’ profitability. This book proposes several solutions, including strategies for increasing revenue, offering supplementary services, and fostering collaboration. Further, it presents ideas and approaches that address the corresponding problems using operations research methods. The proposals presented here can be used not only to enhance the economic viability of dial-a-ride systems but also boost their impact and visibility. As such, the book shares fundamental insights into solving the dial-a-ride problem and anticipates future trends, leading the way to new frontiers of research. The book offers a valuable resource for academics and professionals engaged in the field of transportation or those interested in the design and development of advanced mathematical programming techniques.