On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Westin Hotel in Zagreb, a revolutionary project was presented that could significantly change the face of Croatian road traffic. It is about the AKD AFFINIS system, an analytical tool resulting from the collaboration between the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure and the Agency for Commercial Activities (AKD). This endeavor, funded by European Union resources through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, marks a new step in the digitization of the transport sector, promising greater road safety and improved transport efficiency.

How does AKD AFFINIS change Croatia’s traffic future?

AKD AFFINIS is not just another in a series of technological projects – it represents a smart solution that integrates data from various sources to make traffic smoother and more transparent. The system is designed to serve a wide range of users: from truck drivers, through transport companies, to tachograph workshops and institutions responsible for oversight. The key idea behind this project is the creation of a centralized hub for collecting, processing, and analyzing data, thereby enabling faster decision-making and optimization of daily traffic processes.

According to Tomislav Mihotić, State Secretary at the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, this system brings multiple benefits. "Smart data processing will allow all traffic participants to receive the information they need at the right moment. This means fewer delays, better organization, and, most importantly, greater road flow. All of this has a direct impact on reducing emissions and makes traffic more environmentally friendly," Mihotić emphasized at the conference held on February 19, 2025.

Big Data and open source technology as the project’s foundation

At the core of the AKD AFFINIS system lies the concept of "Big Data" – large-scale data analysis that enables the transformation of raw information into valuable insights. Jure Sertić, the General Director of AKD, highlighted how such projects are the future not only of traffic but of society as a whole. "Unconnected data scattered across different databases has little value on its own. However, when we systematize and connect it, new opportunities for system improvement emerge," Sertić explained, adding that this project is one of the most ambitious in Europe when it comes to applying analytics in traffic.

What makes AKD AFFINIS particularly innovative is the use of open source technology. Darko Akrap, an expert in transformation processes at AKD, explained why this approach was chosen. "Most analytics systems are designed for a limited number of users, such as individual companies. We, however, have created a platform that can support tens of thousands of users – from over 60,000 drivers to 20,000 business entities, with the potential to soon reach 100,000. Open source solutions have allowed us to avoid high licensing costs while ensuring daily data updates," Akrap said.

What does AKD AFFINIS bring to drivers and companies?

For truck drivers and transport companies, AKD AFFINIS means the end of the hassle of manually tracking tachograph data and complying with regulations. The system automatically collects information from tachographs, processes it, and generates reports available in real-time. This not only saves time but also reduces the possibility of errors that could lead to fines or operational delays.

Tachograph workshops will also benefit from this system. With it, they will be able to quickly and easily check device functionality and ensure all data complies with current laws. On the other hand, regulatory bodies will gain a tool for more effective road safety monitoring, which could significantly reduce the number of traffic violations and accidents.

Ivana Norac-Kevo, a specialist in trend analysis at AKD, emphasized the system’s ease of use. "Access to AKD AFFINIS is enabled through the National Identification and Authentication System (NIAS), meaning every user can log into the system using their existing credentials. There’s no need for complicated registrations or additional administrative steps," Norac-Kevo explained.

Croatia as a leader in traffic digitization

This project is not just a technical upgrade – it positions Croatia as a leader in applying advanced technologies in the traffic sector within the European Union. Sertić recalled AKD’s earlier successes, such as the development of a system for digitizing the rights of people with disabilities in the field of mobility, presented a year ago at the same location. "Back then, we showed how we could be pioneers in the EU. Today, we’re taking it a step further by building one of the most sophisticated systems for managing traffic data," Sertić pointed out.

Doc. Dr. Sc. Marijan Jakovljević, a professor at the Faculty of Transport Sciences, added an academic perspective to the project. "AKD AFFINIS is not just a tool for everyday use – it enables a deeper understanding of traffic flows and helps shape strategies and policies, both at the national and European levels. Its contribution to safety and digitization is invaluable," said Jakovljević, who participated in the system’s verification and validation.

When can we expect full functionality?

According to the plan, AKD AFFINIS will be fully operational in less than ten days – specifically, by February 28, 2025. At that point, all users will be able to access basic reports and functionalities. However, this is not the end of development. By May 31, 2025, the system is expected to expand with additional features, including more detailed analyses and customized options for different user groups.

It’s worth noting that the system does not introduce new legal obligations or additional administrative burdens for users. Instead, the focus is on simplifying existing processes and increasing transparency, making it a practical solution for all involved parties.

The bigger picture: Digital transformation and a green future

AKD AFFINIS is not an isolated project – it fits into the broader context of digital transformation that Croatia is implementing in line with European Union goals. The National Recovery and Resilience Plan, through which it is funded, is part of a strategy to strengthen economic resilience and transition to a greener economy. Reducing traffic congestion and optimizing transport directly contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions, one of the EU’s key priorities by 2050.

In addition, the project builds on other AKD initiatives, such as the development of digital travel credentials and electronic identity solutions aligned with European standards. All this demonstrates how Croatia is building infrastructure for a future where technology serves citizens and the economy.