How can you use software to identify transportation issues?

1 Data collection and analysis

One of the first steps in transportation planning is to collect and analyze data on the existing and projected travel patterns, demand, and supply of the transportation system. Software can help you to collect data from various sources, such as surveys, sensors, GPS, and social media, and to process, visualize, and interpret the data using statistical and spatial methods. For example, you can use software to create maps, charts, and tables that show the traffic volume, speed, origin-destination, mode choice, and travel time of different segments and corridors of the network.

2 Simulation and modeling

Another step in transportation planning is to simulate and model the behavior and performance of the transportation system under different scenarios and alternatives. Software can help you to create and run simulation and modeling tools that can capture the complex interactions and dynamics of the traffic flow, the network structure, the user preferences, and the external factors. For example, you can use software to simulate the traffic conditions, the emissions, the noise, and the energy consumption of different transportation modes, policies, and projects.

3 Evaluation and optimization

The final step in transportation planning is to evaluate and optimize the outcomes and impacts of the different scenarios and alternatives. Software can help you to apply evaluation and optimization methods that can measure and compare the effectiveness, efficiency, equity, and sustainability of the transportation system. For example, you can use software to calculate and rank the benefits, costs, risks, and trade-offs of different transportation solutions using indicators, criteria, and objectives.

4 Examples of software

Software applications can be extremely helpful in identifying and addressing transportation issues. ArcGIS, for example, is a GIS software that assists in collecting, managing, analyzing, and displaying spatial data related to transportation. TransCAD is a transportation planning software that models and simulates travel demand, network assignment, transit operations, and freight movements. VISSIM is a microscopic traffic simulation software that helps to model and simulate the behavior of vehicles, drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users. HCS is a highway capacity software that evaluates the level of service, capacity, and quality of traffic flow on highways. Synchro is a signal optimization software designed to optimize the timing and coordination of traffic signals on arterial streets and networks. Lastly, EMME is a multimodal transportation planning software that can help to model the impacts of transportation policies on travel demand, mode choice, accessibility, emissions, and equity.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?