Traffic control systems are complex combinations of many different components. Systems contain such devices as detectors, signal controllers, and traveler information devices. All these components combined comprise large, complicated systems that need significant attention to operate effectively over time. Traffic control is a very dynamic field, with constant growth and change. The operators and maintainers of these systems need a method to maintain and control the changes made to traffic control systems. Configuration management (CM) has been developed and used in industries such as aerospace and software, to maintain the integrity of complex systems in the face of change. It is also used to document the changes made to the system and, if necessary, gives managers the ability to return to an earlier version of the system. It supports the development, maintenance, enhancement, and expansion of the system. The results of a recent National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) synthesis study (NCHRP Synthesis Report 294) conducted by the authors, indicate that some transportation departments already have a CM process in place. The majority of departments, however, have some system by which they keep track of change, but not a system that utilizes all "formal" CM processes. More recently, the authors' research team has gathered more complete CM application information by interviewing state DOT personnel and CM consultants on the specifics of their systems, and the pitfalls/benefits they have realized. The goal of the research, which is funded under the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Traffic Management Center (TMC) Pooled Fund program, is to develop guidance materials to help DOT's develop and utilize CM programs. The report will include examples of CM systems other state DOTs have implemented, how they implemented them, and a description of the resources required to do so. This paper provides an interim report on the activities underway to develop the guidance materials.
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