The effective and efficient
movement of people and goods requires a systematic review of performance of
multimodal and intermodal transportation systems and identification of
strategies to address congestion. Systems research is a way of systematically considering congestion-related
issues and basing evaluations on a discrete set of performance measures. The systems research portfolio area is aimed
at enhancing the understanding of transportation system performance through:
Developing
transportation system performance measures that are coordinated with and
informed by the public involvement programs. Performance measures should aim to
answer questions about whether the performance of the transportation system (or
economy, air quality, etc.) is getting better or worse over time; and whether
transportation investments are correlated or linked to stated goals and
outcomes.
Identifying
processes, practices, and systems in public and private organizations that
minimize impediments to commercial freight movements, and are widely recognized
as improving transportation performance and efficiency.
Enhancing
knowledge of systemic transportation needs from the perspective of users (e.g.,
shippers, logistics services, etc.) rather than as discrete modal programs and
infrastructure components.
