This paper reviews the efforts to date to implement Geographical Information Systems for Transport (GIS-T) in Pennsylvania State, USA, and comments briefly on current GIS-T efforts in other US states' Departments of Transportation (DOTs). Recent tasks undertaken at the Pennsylvania DOT (PennDOT) included: (1) development of conceptual designs for its GIS; (2) selecting, defining and implementing GIS-T software, hardware and data communications platforms; (3) recommending guidelines and standards for data sharing within PennDOT; and (4) ensuring the compatibility of GIS-T design with other related activities and projects. The Conceptual Design for PennDOT is explained. It is a unique design, and the first design, and the first comprehensive approach to GIS-T implementation in the USA. Its aim is to introduce a new technology, and the initial focus is on planning and management uses of GIS. Its user-defined GIS applications and database needs are tabulated. Several key findings of the PennDOT study are outlined. The benefits of the GIS-T projects in PennDOT and other US DOTs can be classified into two groups: (1) those providing greater capability in less time; and (2) those promoting institutional integration.
Samenvatting