State DOT Innovation Programs & Practices Overview
Explore findings from the NCHRP synthesis on State DOT innovation programs & initiatives. Discover state variations, approaches to innovation, and key themes such as leadership support and staff engagement.
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Research and communications for transportation professionals NCHRP Synthesis Findings on State DOT Innovation Programs and Practices Brian Hirt AASHTO Research Advisory Committee Meeting July 2024
Innovation in transportation has been around a while
Fast forward Conducted in 2023 and published in 2024 doi.org/10.17226/27829 Thank you, project panel! Amanda Gilman-Bogie, Vermont AOT Todd May, Indiana DOT Mustafa Mohamedali, Washington State DOT Ned Parrish, Idaho TD Kevin Pete, Texas DOT Dara Wheeler, Caltrans Sara Lowry, FHWA Liaison Claire Randall, TRB Liaison
Objective Document state DOT innovation programs and initiatives, areas of focus on the innovation spectrum, and associated activities Approach: Lit Search Survey Case Studies
Snapshot Findings 41 states participated in survey Some similarities 60 percent already maintain an innovation program. Another 30 percent still carry out a variety of innovation practices. About 75 percent have established a bureau, office, unit, or committee focused on innovation.
Snapshot Findings and some differences States are split 50 50 on whether they employ a single person responsible for agencywide innovation. Approaches to innovation: 70 percent take a bottom-up approach 50 percent take a top-down approach About half do both More inside!
Five Case Studies each with a unique story on formal and informal efforts Range of sizes, regions, and experience with innovation
Some highlighted themes the importance (and the challenges) of Obtaining leadership support. A thriving innovation culture requires the engagement of agency leaders. Developing an innovation culture. Three-quarters of survey respondents and all but two of the five case example agencies have established an organizational unit focused on innovation. Engaging and empowering staff. Through a variety of means, case example agencies engage staff who will serve as enthusiastic and proactive partners in advancing innovation. Meeting in the middle (collaborative organizational structure). Agencies that use both a top- down and a bottom-up approach to advancing innovation have engaged leaders who support the managers and front-line staff actively involved in identifying, selecting, and advancing innovative ideas.
Some highlighted themes the importance (and the challenges) of Managing risk aversion. One of the more significant challenges for survey respondents is overcoming risk aversion. Case example agencies suggest that a culture of strong leadership support for innovation can create an environment where it is safe to fail. Establishing statewide pathways for innovation. Advancing an innovative concept across an agency was rated by survey respondents as the most challenging aspect of innovation. Large, diverse transportation networks and limited internal funding sources complicate efforts to scale up innovations.
Or reach out to us We re here! (And look in the program book for contact info) Brian Hirt Principal and CEO 402-770-9076 brian.hirt@ctcandassociates.com Chris Kline Chief Operating Officer 920-401-9323 chris.kline@ctcandassociates.com Also Project PI
