A conceptual model of the development of road administrations that is driven by economic, social, and technological forces is described. Different economies based on agriculture and industry or on services and knowledge produce different road transport characteristics. Technological change affects the demand among transport modes, and recent developments in communications and information technology are now having a major effect on road transport systems and the internal management of road administrations. Road networks undergo different phases of development, categorized as birth, growth, upgrading, and maturity. There is a correlation between economic and social development and these road network phases, with developing countries mainly involved in network growth and developed countries mainly focused on network upgrading. Some countries are observing a slowing of increases in car ownership and road travel demand as they move into a more mature phase. Road administrations have responded to these external forces as their road networks have developed. Institutional reform has occurred to bring clearer lines of accountability in policy, regulation, funding, procurement, and delivery functions. Further reform is occurring to take account of the greater involvement of both the community and the private sector in the planning, funding, and delivery of road transport improvements. There is an ongoing need for road administrations to develop different capabilities as road networks develop. The predominant skill base shifts from engineering during road network growth to management using community-based performance indicators during the network upgrading phase. In the mature phase still greater management skills are needed to integrate road transport with other transport modes, partner with the private sector, and incorporate new information and communication technologies into management processes.
Abstract