Organizing for TSMO
Case Study 7: Integrating the Capability Maturity Model into Agency Processes
Executive Summary
Transportation systems management and operations (TSMO) provides tools for transportation managers to address safety, system performance, and reliability. TSMO is "an integrated set of strategies to optimize the performance of existing infrastructure through the implementation of multimodal and intermodal, cross-jurisdictional systems, services, and projects designed to preserve capacity and improve security, safety, and reliability of the transportation system.1" Through participation in the second Strategic Highway Research Program workshops, transportation agencies are working to better support TSMO programs. Deploying intelligent transportation systems, hiring internal information technology staff, and using performance measures for data-driven decisions are just a few examples of the many activities a TSMO program can support.
Given the varying stages of TSMO adoption and advancement, the Federal Highway Administration identified the need for case studies to provide examples of common challenges and best practices for transportation agencies to learn from each other. This is one of 12 case studies developed to support organizing for TSMO. This case study focuses on how integrating the capability maturity model (CMM) can improve TSMO program planning and enhance continuous improvement.
Four agencies were interviewed to discuss their progress with integrating the CMM: Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), and North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). Each agency provided information on their lessons learned and the next steps to continually improve these efforts. Some of the best practices identified include:
- Caltrans' integration of CMM with integrated corridor management.
- TxDOT's CMM assessment as a framework for TSMO plans.
- NCDOT's integration of CMM using functional mobility areas.
- WSDOT's use of the CMM assessment to improve business processes and culture.
