Technology

Supply chain software company Robocom Systems International said it has acquired Accord Software Inc. Terms were not disclosed.

RALEIGH, N.C. — Two federal agencies that regularly deal with trucks have outlined ambitious plans that could make the nation’s highways nearly as busy with electronic communications as they are with vehicles, and doing so before the end of this decade.

PAR Technology Corp. said it is selling its PAR Logistics Management Systems subsidiary to telematics company Orbcomm in a transaction valued at up to $10 million.

While many trucking fleets and the companies that make in-cab data devices to support carriers’ operations back moves to restrict cellphone use by drivers, a number of them strongly oppose the recent National Transportation Safety Board recommendation that calls for a total ban on their use — including hands-free devices — while driving.

A federal advisory committee studying electronic onboard recorders did not reach a consensus on the best way to transmit hours-of-service data from the truck cab to roadside inspectors, but did offer recommendations on items including safeguarding carrier and driver privacy.

Data amassed for safety and maintenance applications are being repurposed in software that can help fleets improve driver performance and bottom-line results, according to technology developers and transportation company officials.