AP-G84/04 Best practice in road use data collection, analysis ... - WIM

Accessed by AR - ARRB TRANSPORT RESEARCH on 04 Feb 2005
Austroads 2004
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Best Practices in Road Use Data Collection, Analysis and Reporting
A number of potentially useful traffic parameters can be derived from the detailed traffic volume,
flow, composition, weigh-in-motion and other road characteristics data if it is made accessible and
an adequate level of resources are used to extract these parameters. Detailed access to this data
is not likely to occur unless it is insulated from enforcement.
Other Issues
A portion of the future road use data is likely to be in private hands placing access arrangements
on a contractual basis. Different levels of access to the data also need to be developed to suit the
individual requirements of data users. Internet based systems are expected to play a major role in
transferring data to the users.
Data dissemination systems need to be made in a form compatible and consistent with other
collecting agencies and data users. Some attention to developing such systems need to be made
in cooperation with all Austroads Member Authorities (MAs).
The development of the best road use data collection, analysis and reporting practice will need the
input of all MAs. The development of this practice should allow the flexibility to introduce new
technologies and ideas as they emerge to ensure that the final system remains as relevant and
adaptable as possible. A broad non-prescriptive approach needs to be used that can
accommodate all these differences and future changes in technology.