Overview
This white paper describes example best practices and reference material regarding the implementation plan priority needs noted above. The paper also suggests supportive national actions to improve Systems and Technology including: compiling examples of best practices for the use of Statewide and Regional Architectures; developing a basic webinar module focused on ITS procurement processes; compiling resources related to training regarding the systems engineering process and standards implementation; developing a clearinghouse of standard specifications for frequently procured TSM&O technology; and compiling best practices and strategies for ITS device maintenance and maintenance programs, and keeping pace with rapidly changing lifecycle considerations. Important roles were seen for FHWA, AASHTO, the National Operations Center of Excellence, ITE, JPO, CITE, and NHI in supporting these efforts.
Organizing for operations involves making transportation systems management and operations (TSM&O) a central part of an agency’s mission and institutional structure. This is accomplished by advancing TSM&O programs and projects within the agency. A specific guidance framework has been developed to help transportation agencies improve the effectiveness of their TSM&O activities. The framework, the "Operations Capability Improvement Process," is based on self-evaluation regarding the key process and institutional capabilities required from a transportation agency (or group of agencies) to achieve effective TSM&O.
This framework is adapted from a concept developed in the information technology (IT) industry called the "Capability Maturity Model," which has been tailored to the transportation community. To read more, please visit Planning for Operations.