Organizing for Operations

Organizing for operations involves making transportation systems management and operations (TSM&O) a central part of an agency’s mission and institutional structure. This is accomplished by advancing TSM&O programs and projects within the agency. A specific guidance framework has been developed to help transportation agencies improve the effectiveness of their TSM&O activities. The framework, the "Operations Capability Improvement Process," is based on self-evaluation regarding the key process and institutional capabilities required from a transportation agency (or group of agencies) to achieve effective TSM&O.

This framework is adapted from a concept developed in the information technology (IT) industry called the "Capability Maturity Model," which has been tailored to the transportation community. It is based on self-evaluation regarding the key process and institutional capabilities required from a transportation agency (or group of agencies) to achieve effective TSM&O. The Operations Capability Improvement Process identifies six critical dimensions of process and institutional capability that directly relate to improving TSM&O program effectiveness: business processes (e.g., planning, budgeting); standardization/documentation of systems and technology; utilization of performance measures; cultural understanding, acceptance, and championship of TSM&O relevance; organizational structure and staff development; and effective external collaboration and partnerships.