The need for model integration arises from the recognition that both transportation decision-making and the tools supporting it continue to increase in complexity. Many strategies that agencies evaluate require using tools that are sensitive to supply and demand at local and regional levels. This in turn requires the use and integration of analysis tools across multiple resolutions. Despite this need, many integrated modeling practices remain ad hoc and inefficient. A concept for an open-source data hub was developed to better enable the exchange of model information across multiple resolutions. All modeling and field data are fed and stored using a unified data schema. Tools within the data hub aid users in modifying modeling network, control, and demand data to match an objective, such as calibrating to field data. Visualization tools were built into the data hub’s core visualization program, NeXTA, along with powerful links to common Web-based tools such as Google Earth®, Google Maps®, and Google Fusion Tables®. The data hub reduces barriers to interfacing models across multiple resolutions and software platforms, which ultimately saves time and reduces costs. (Author/publisher)
Abstract