<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="https://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
  <channel>
    <title>Research in Progress (RIP)</title>
    <link>https://rip.trb.org/</link>
    <atom:link href="https://rip.trb.org/Record/RSS?s=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" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
    <description></description>
    <language>en-us</language>
    <copyright>Copyright © 2026. National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved.</copyright>
    <docs>http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss</docs>
    <managingEditor>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</managingEditor>
    <webMaster>tris-trb@nas.edu (Bill McLeod)</webMaster>
    <image>
      <title>Research in Progress (RIP)</title>
      <url>https://rip.trb.org/Images/PageHeader-wTitle-RIP.jpg</url>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/</link>
    </image>
    <item>
      <title>Successful Strategies to Integrate Digital Technologies to Achieve Data Interoperability Across the Lifecycle of Transportation Assets</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2681238</link>
      <description><![CDATA[State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) are adopting digital processes to improve project delivery and asset management. Federal initiatives such as the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Everyday Counts (EDC) program—including EDC-4 and EDC-6—have supported these efforts.

The Advanced Digital Construction Management Systems (ADCMS) grant program (FY 2022–2024) provided funding for DOTs to implement and pilot digital approaches that connect data from planning through maintenance. These efforts aim to maintain accurate, consistent asset information throughout the asset lifecycle.

DOTs are at varying stages of implementation and use different tools and approaches, but share a common goal of improving data interoperability. A scan of current practices—including data workflows, system integration, and data repository management—would provide useful insights for agencies nationwide.

The scan is expected to identify key insights in areas such as: (1) digital technologies and lifecycle processes across the asset lifecycle; (2) integration with enterprise systems; (3) core data elements and IT requirements; (4) change management and workforce development; (5) data visualization and performance dashboards; (6) incentives and challenges related to technology adoption; and (7) implementation approaches and alignment with agency policies.

Findings will provide practical guidance for construction and maintenance staff, engineering managers, executive leaders, and other decision-makers. The scan will compare successful strategies, identify approaches that support efficient digital adoption, and promote consistent, high-quality data practices across projects and agencies.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:44:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2681238</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Roadmap for Innovative Application of GDOT's Digital Information Assets in Support of Developing the Digital Transportation Infrastructure</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2596466</link>
      <description><![CDATA[
This project proposes the development of a comprehensive roadmap for digital infrastructure in transportation which will provide the necessary guidance and insights to support the implementation of digital technologies and drive innovation in the transportation sector. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 05 Sep 2025 13:03:29 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2596466</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Practices. Topic 56-23. Practices for Integrating Geotechnical and Geologic Data into Digital Delivery Products




</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2558378</link>
      <description><![CDATA[State departments of transportation (DOTs) are increasingly adopting digital technologies throughout project lifecycles, with many moving toward digital deliverables for construction and comprehensive asset management environments for improved data access and utility. While several states have made significant progress in generating structured digital subsurface data, fewer have developed methods—such as Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)—for integrating this data efficiently into digital workflows. Geotechnical model development remains challenging, particularly in relation to data quality, reliability, provenance, and governance.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this synthesis project is to document state DOT practices and policies on the deployment of digital geotechnical and geologic data in the DOTs’ digital workspace.   ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 May 2025 12:41:43 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2558378</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Construction Digital Delivery Technology Scan</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2040453</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is embarking on a digital delivery initiative to move from PDF-based processes to digital. Research is necessary
to determine the impact of this change on statewide construction inspection activities including the surveying and
computing technology that will be necessary in the field. Technology needs may differ by Transportation Service
Center (TSC) depending on their percentage of consultant vs. internal inspection activities, the number of MDOT
construction staff and the complexity of typical projects. This technology may include Global Positioning System (GPS) units, Total Stations,
Levels, Laptops, Tablets, Smartphones, Monitors (at this time UAVs and virtual reality are out of scope) and the
proper software to consume digital deliverables, document inspection measurements and create content for
downstream asset management functions. Digital delivery methods will rely on field connectivity to the internet.
There are issues with the use of cell phone hotspots so other means of connectivity should be investigated.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 06 Aug 2024 15:17:57 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2040453</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Practices. Topic 56-06. Practices for Transitioning to Digital Delivery Systems and Workflows



</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2384693</link>
      <description><![CDATA[With rapid technological advancements in construction, state departments of transportation (DOTs) are prioritizing digital delivery to bridge data capture gaps throughout the project life cycle. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) recognizes the potential for enhanced data collection in asset management through digital technologies. FHWA's Every Day Counts (EDC) program, initiated in collaboration with the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), promotes innovation. EDC Rounds 2 and 3 (2013-2016) emphasized 3D models in construction, while Round 4 (2017-2018) focused on e-construction and partnering. In Round 6 (2021-2022), the emphasis shifted to e-ticketing and digital as-builts DAB. State DOTs are at different stages of transitioning to digital project delivery.  However, there is no commonly accepted standard for what digital delivery looks like or how it should be implemented.
The objective of this synthesis is to document state DOT practices related to adopting and implementing digital delivery. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 30 May 2024 16:17:33 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2384693</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Guide for Integrating Digital Construction Inspection Technologies</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2381754</link>
      <description><![CDATA[In recent years, the rapid evolution of project delivery in transportation infrastructure has presented state departments of transportation (DOTs) with an abundance of emerging methods and tools designed to enhance the efficiency of field construction inspections. These advancements promise a revolution in the way inspections are conducted, potentially ushering in an era of streamlined, integrated, and digitalized processes that can significantly augment the current capabilities of DOTs. However, this surge in available technologies has also brought forth a complex maze of choices, leaving DOTs grappling with decisions on which tools to integrate into their existing systems for optimal results. Moreover, the integration of digital tools into construction inspection activities is not just about the adoption of technology; it encompasses a broader spectrum that includes understanding the nuances of tool interoperability, training requisites, and setting achievable milestones. The transition to a digitalized inspection process is a multifaceted endeavor, requiring a holistic approach that considers various interconnected elements that contribute to a successful implementation.

In addition, technology developers generate solutions faster than the transportation sector can implement them, sometimes without clearly understanding the needs and challenges. Research is needed to pave the way for a streamlined and manageable digital inspection process to ensure expeditious integration of technological tools adaptable to state DOTs’ needs and workflows. 

The objective of this project is to develop a guide for integrating digital construction inspection technologies into state DOTs' workflows across the project life cycle. ]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 28 May 2024 16:18:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2381754</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SPR-4832:  A Digital Inspection System for Training Construction Inspectors</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2209626</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Construction inspection is critical to the quality and long-term performance of infrastructure assets.  There is a critical need for effective tools to train novice inspectors and provide updated information for experienced inspectors. This project develops a digital inspection training system. Main deliverables include a digital inspection training system for on-demand training of inspectors, and a training program that can be integrated with INDOT’s learning system.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 10 Jul 2023 09:18:32 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2209626</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Digitizing Bicycle and Pedestrian Treatments for Promoting Active Transportation Safety 





</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2195112</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Users of active transportation are facing an increasing disparity in traffic-related incidents. However, the implementation of data-driven safety and planning tools is hindered by the lack of high-quality inventories for bicycle and pedestrian facilities and treatments.

There are data management and organizational challenges to maintaining statewide inventories for active transportation treatments. High-quality, contiguous active transportation networks cross many jurisdictional boundaries. Data federated from local authorities are highly variable and often incomplete. Auditing and mapping pedestrian and bicycle treatments are crucial tasks within a geographic information systems framework. There are also emerging geographic data sources (e.g., crowdsourced and remotely sensed data), which can introduce new challenges and opportunities. 

Research is needed for developing a spatial framework for working across jurisdictional boundaries and data sources to digitize, maintain, and share active transportation-related assets while minimizing costs and risks associated with poorly governed data.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research is to develop a guide that will assist state departments of transportation (DOTs) and local agencies in digitizing bike and pedestrian treatments and provide examples of how organizations have used digitized data to better fulfill their safety goals. 

At a minimum the study shall (1) examine existing best practices; (2) explore the potential and benefits of using emerging geographic data sources; and (3) develop a standardized framework for data collection, maintenance, and sharing of the active transportation facilities and treatment inventory data.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Mon, 12 Jun 2023 19:56:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2195112</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>The Digital Twin Paradigm for Real-Time Transit Infrastructure Maintenance</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/2093176</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County will partner with University of Nevada to build and demonstrate the Digital Twins Technology of real-time transit infrastructure monitoring throughout the City of Reno. The Digital Twin Technology would be very helpful and would automatically identify structural / visual changes that would indicate damage to bus stops and other amenities along the bus routes.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 03 Jan 2023 13:53:37 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/2093176</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Practices. Topic 54-04. Mobile Devices as a Tool for Digitalized Project Documentation and Inspection</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1953241</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Consumer-grade mobile devices, including smartphones, tablets, peripheral devices, and Rovers, are increasingly used as innovative tools in construction project delivery, documentation, and inspection. Advances in camera technology combined with increased accuracy in geolocation, graphical displays, and LiDAR abilities provide a powerful construction technology that is also widely accessible and used by most construction professionals on jobsites. Mobile device applications that can be used by construction professionals include digitized documents; geolocation of data; augmented reality with engineering precision; capturing 3D images of as-built conditions through built-in LiDAR cameras; object recognition through AI; viewing of 3D models; access to inspection history; connecting QA results to the model; data storage, object recognition, and feature extraction methods; and improved communications.

The objective of this synthesis was to document state DOT practices for using mobile devices to support digitized project delivery, documentation, and inspection. Information for this study was gathered through a literature review, a survey of state DOTs, and follow-up interviews with selected DOTs. Case examples of five state DOTs provide additional information on using mobile devices to support digitized project documentation and inspection.

Dr. Hala Nassereddine and her colleagues at the University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, collected and synthesized the information and wrote the report. The members of the topic panel are acknowledged on page iv. This synthesis is an immediately useful document that records state DOT practices on the use of mobile devices to support digitized project documentation and inspection that were acceptable within the limitations of the knowledge available at the time of its preparation. As progress in research and practice continues, new knowledge will be added to that now at hand. The Synthesis was published as NCHRP Synthesis 635.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 May 2022 10:12:23 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1953241</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Guidance and Methods for Transitioning Written Reports to Digital Interactive Publications</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1906842</link>
      <description><![CDATA[This project will identify the methods, best practices, and guidance for developing interactive and engaging online reports and visualizations through three primary areas:
(1) Guidance to develop and write reports for interactive online spaces.
(2) Guidance to ensure Section 508 compliance for accessibility for dashboards and interactive online spaces.
(3) Guidance to curate a digital archive for public record and disclosure.
The results of this research will provide WSDOT with step-by-step guidance to create and maintain engaging interactive reports online that increase overall audience reach, readership and comprehension. Report writers will be able to better identify target audiences and cater to their specific needs using interactive content, visualizations, infographics, and storyboard reporting styles.
]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 27 Jan 2022 18:58:19 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1906842</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Guide for Remote Virtual Inspection for Highway Construction Infrastructure Projects



</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1854192</link>
      <description><![CDATA[State departments of transportation (DOTs) inspectors play a critical role in overseeing and managing a construction project. They rely on innovative technologies to address the increasing demand to perform their responsibilities in a safe and efficient way. The adoption of mobile devices and modern surveying equipment for construction inspection has proven timely and beneficial. Remote virtual inspection (RVI) offers numerous benefits (e.g., improved data quality and consistency, enhanced communication, improved transparency, and improved safety of the site personnel) to support onsite construction inspection activities and collect digital data for state DOTs contract administration processes, such estimation of quantities, verification and acceptance, payment, and creation of as-built records. 

Research was needed to investigate digital technologies and systems for RVI activities and to bridge the knowledge gap for state DOTs in evaluating and integrating digital technologies and systems for RVI for remote highway construction infrastructure projects.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this research was to develop a guide for the applications of digital technologies and systems for RVI for highway construction infrastructure projects. At a minimum, the research shall include a readiness assessment of digital technologies and systems for highway construction projects and implementation requirements.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Tue, 25 May 2021 11:38:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1854192</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Synthesis of Information Related to Highway Practices. Topic 52-19. Technological Capabilities of DOTs for Digital Project Management and Delivery</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1707179</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Technology solutions are in no short supply for state departments of transportation across the United States. With advancements in geospatial accuracy, cost reduction for technology components, and a need for effective staff utilization, a wealth of products and systems are becoming attractive options in the delivery of highway projects.

The TRB National Cooperative Highway Research Program's NCHRP Synthesis 594: Technological Capabilities of Departments of Transportation for Digital Project Management and Delivery details a number of solutions and documents successful uses of technologies.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2020 10:44:01 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1707179</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>Updates to the Digital Edition of the AASHTO Transportation Asset Management Guide</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1707198</link>
      <description><![CDATA[Transportation asset management (TAM) is an area of great importance to state departments of transportation (DOTs) throughout the United States. As defined in Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21), TAM is a “strategic and systematic process of operating, maintaining, and improving physical assets… that will achieve and sustain a desired state of good repair over the life cycle of the assets at minimum practicable cost.” Because of the federal requirements in MAP-21 and subsequent legislation, the interest in TAM has intensified as state DOTs must meet the federal requirements and implement TAM within their agencies as a good business practice.
 
Numerous NCHRP research reports provide guidance and tools to state DOTs to aid them in implementing TAM in their agencies. Some NCHRP research has been published by AASHTO, including the AASHTO Transportation Asset Management Guide: A Focus on Implementation, 2nd Edition (the Guide). The Guide is available through the AASHTO Bookstore at https://store.transportation.org/Item/CollectionDetail?ID=217) and a digital version available on the AASHTO TAM Portal at https://www.tam-portal.com. Practitioners have suggested that the Guide would be more helpful and more easily implemented if it contained more up-to-date information gained through new research with content updates to the digital guide only, such as new/updated case studies, user checklists, how-to guides, etc.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2020 18:44:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1707198</guid>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>A New Digital Repository and Annotated Bibliography for GDOT R&amp;D Projects</title>
      <link>https://rip.trb.org/View/1601104</link>
      <description><![CDATA[The objectives of this research project are to (1) Create a user-friendly, easily-maintained, digital repository for storing, searching, recalling, and preserving bibliographic entries and reports; (2) Establish a customized taxonomy for tagging and searching such bibliographic entries and reports; (3) Create an annotated bibliography of Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) research reports within this repository; (4) Implement formative usability testing of the system to ensure the repository is useful and usable; and (5) Train representatives of GDOT on the use and future expansion of the repository.]]></description>
      <pubDate>Fri, 19 Apr 2019 15:39:43 GMT</pubDate>
      <guid>https://rip.trb.org/View/1601104</guid>
    </item>
  </channel>
</rss>