Organizing for TSMO
Case Study 10: State Department of Transportation Examples 2 of 2

Chapter 3 - Summary

State agencies have a vital role in developing and implementing transportation systems management and operations (TSMO) programs, including developing organizational structures and processes, identifying strategies to implement, and collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders. Both agencies interviewed for this case study have implemented dedicated TSMO divisions to raise the priority of safety and mobility considerations that optimize existing infrastructure. Each agency contributed to TSMO goals through initiatives that other agencies can gain lessons learned from:

• Developing a formal structure and processes can encourage advancement of TSMO activities. By documenting the institutional arrangement and organization framework, such as through TSMO program planning, a uniform understanding can be implemented statewide. It is important that TSMO program planning is a continuous process, evolving to fit the needs of the agency and addressing emerging opportunities.
• Collaborating with planning, design, construction, and maintenance groups can help integrate TSMO strategies into projects or replace projects more efficiently. By beginning conversations regarding safety, operations, and maintenance early in the project prioritization and development phases, innovative strategies and initiatives can be implemented cost-effectively.
• Using performance measures is beneficial to identifying and deploying mobility strategies. Targets should be established so that goals are understood by agencies and discussions about countermeasures can occur proactively. Performance measure reporting should be consistent and accessible to all staff to maintain and promote a culture of data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement.

State departments of transportation (DOT) can help ensure that objectives of transportation systems management and operations (TSMO) programs are consistent with existing statewide and regional objectives. In many cases, the DOT will lead the effort to develop a TSMO plan for their State. The DOTs highlighted in this case study have taken varying approaches to integrate TSMO with existing agency processes. Lessons learned in this case study can be used to develop TSMO plans in other agencies.