Overview
This primer is focused on designing for operations; i.e., the collaborative and systematic consideration of management and operations during transportation project design and development. Effectively designing for operations involves the development and application of design policies, procedures, and strategies that support transportation management and operations. Considering operations needs during the design process requires transportation design professionals to work closely with those who have expertise in transportation operations, intelligent transportation, and transportation technology. Design professionals should also anticipate working with practitioners from planning, transit, freight, and TIM as well as staff from other agencies in order to fully identify, prioritize, and incorporate operations needs into the infrastructure design. There are several entry points for integrating M&O strategies into the traditional project design process, as described in this primer. Designing for operations is typically reflected in increased or formalized collaboration between designers and operators and the development of design guidelines and procedures that reflect a broad range of operational considerations.