BACKGROUND

In recent years, the rapid evolution of project delivery in transportation infrastructure has presented state departments of transportation (DOTs) with an abundance of emerging methods and tools designed to enhance the efficiency of field construction inspections. These advancements promise a revolution in the way inspections are conducted, potentially ushering in an era of streamlined, integrated, and digitalized processes that can significantly augment the current capabilities of DOTs. However, this surge in available technologies has also brought forth a complex maze of choices, leaving DOTs grappling with decisions on which tools to integrate into their existing systems for optimal results. Moreover, the integration of digital tools into construction inspection activities is not just about the adoption of technology; it encompasses a broader spectrum that includes understanding the nuances of tool interoperability, training requisites, and setting achievable milestones. The transition to a digitalized inspection process is a multifaceted endeavor, requiring a holistic approach that considers various interconnected elements that contribute to a successful implementation.

In addition, technology developers generate solutions faster than the transportation sector can implement them, sometimes without clearly understanding the needs and challenges. Research is needed to pave the way for a streamlined and manageable digital inspection process to ensure expeditious integration of technological tools adaptable to state DOTs’ needs and workflows. 

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this project is to develop a guide for integrating digital construction inspection technologies into state DOTs' workflows across the project life cycle. 

Accomplishment of the project objective will require at least the following tasks.

TASKS

PHASE I—Planning

Task 1. Conduct a literature review of research and the state of the practice on digital inspection technologies relevant to this research. The review shall include published and unpublished documentation, past surveys, pilot projects, and research conducted through the NCHRP; the Federal Highway Administration; other national, state, and local agencies; international organizations; and industry groups not limited to highways.

Task 2. Synthesize the results of the literature review to identify knowledge gaps related to the project objective. These gaps should be addressed in the final product or the recommended future research, as budget permits.

Task 3. Propose the research plan to be executed in Phase II to achieve the project objective. At a minimum, the research plan shall include:

• A strategy to identify and engage key stakeholders (e.g., technology developers and vendors, state DOTs, consulting engineers, construction contractors, etc.) to seek input on the state of the practice and gather relevant data, including challenges and advancement opportunities;
• Coordination with other building information modeling efforts [e.g., transportation pooled fund (TPF) studies TPF-5(480) and TPF-5(523); NCHRP Projects 10-110A, 10-111, 10-112, 10-113, and 08-174; etc.] to prevent duplication in digital inspection, digital as-built, documentation, data standards, geospatial attributes and precision, and so forth;
• An investigation of key strategies and best practices for fostering effective collaboration between technology solution providers/vendors and DOTs;
• Identification of construction staff responsibilities, activities, and tools most conducive to digital adaptation;
• Identification of training strategies/needs for construction inspection staff regarding the use of digital inspection technologies;
• Development of a roadmap for state DOTs to integrate digital construction inspection technologies into their workflows;
• Development of return on investment methodologies for integrating digital construction inspection technologies into DOTs' workflows;
• An outline of a vetting workshop with selected stakeholders; and
• A preliminary outline and table of contents of the draft guide.

Task 4. Prepare Interim Report No. 1, which documents Tasks 1 through 3 and provides an updated work plan for the remainder of the research. The updated plan must describe the process and rationale for the work proposed for Phases II through IV.

PHASE II—Execution

Task 5. Execute the research plan according to the approved Interim Report No. 1 and update the preliminary outline, table of contents, and format of the guide after consideration of the panel’s review comments.

Task 6. Develop a complete sample section of the guide to be selected by the NCHRP. This section should be publication ready and have an appropriate level of detail. The format shall meet the current American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) formatting guidelines and include commentary.

Task 7. Prepare Interim Report No. 2, which documents Tasks 5 and 6 and provides an updated work plan for the remainder of the research. The updated work plan must describe the process and rationale for the work proposed for Phases III and IV.

PHASE III—Guide Development

Task 8. Develop the remaining sections of the guide according to the approved Interim Report No. 2.

Task 9. Develop the stand-alone Implementation Roadmap according to the approved Interim Report No. 2.

Task 10. Prepare Interim Report No. 3, which documents Tasks 8 and 9 and provides an updated work plan for the remainder of the research no later than 6 months before the contract end date. The updated work plan must describe the process and rationale for the work proposed for Phase IV.

PHASE IV—Final Products

Task 11. Revise the guide and Implementation Roadmap after consideration of the panel’s review comments.

Task 12. Plan and conduct an in-person workshop with the panel and invited experts to be selected by the NCHRP to review the draft guide and Implementation Roadmap. Revise the draft guide and the Implementation Roadmap according to the outcomes of the workshop.

Task 13. Prepare (1) presentation material, in a PowerPoint or other format, for use in webinars to facilitate the use and adoption of the guide and (2) a stand-alone technical memorandum titled “Implementation of Research Findings and Products.” 

Task 14. Submit the final deliverables, including (1) the guide, (2) a final report documenting the entire research effort, (3) the Implementation Roadmap, (4) presentation material, and (5) the “Implementation of Research Findings and Products” document.

STATUS: Proposals have been received in response to the RFP. The project panel will meet to select a contractor to perform the work.