Benefits of Geographic Information Systems in Managing a Major Transportation Program

This paper presents the use of geographic information systems (GIS) in the support of a major state transportation program and discusses the lessons learned on the improvement of future results. The review is based on the results of a benefit–cost (BC) analysis that showed overall positive returns as well as areas in which effectiveness could be improved. In 2004, the Oregon Department of Transportation (DOT) contracted with the Oregon Bridge Delivery Partners (OBDP) to manage a $1.3 billion bridge repair and reconstruction program known as the Oregon Transportation Investment Act III State Bridge Delivery Program. GIS was integral to the information strategy deployed in the management of the program. In 2010, in a review of the GIS and other information technology systems, the Oregon DOT and OBDP jointly conducted a BC analysis of the impact of these systems on the bridge program. The agencies found a positive rate of return, generally, for all information technology systems and for GIS systems taken as a group. For maximum benefit from these systems to be achieved in support of major programs, the agencies found the following factors important to consider: timing, flexibility, compatibility with other system architecture, integration with the standards of project owners and contractors, and compatibility with contract and legal obligations. Although the technology itself had proved successful, the program showed that an integrated strategy was essential to realize the maximum potential value of GIS.