Assessing the implementation of wireless technologies for highway construction through maturity models of people, process and technology
Date
2025-05
Authors
Tripathi, Amit
Major Professor
Advisor
Sturgill, Roy
Shane, Jennifer
Smadi, Omar
Madson, Katherine
Eisenmann, David
Committee Member
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Abstract
Efficiently managing complex highway infrastructure is a critical priority for State Departments of Transportation (DOTs). The successful integration of emerging technologies—such as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), barcoding, object-recognition devices, Global Positioning System (GPS)/Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), Geographic Information System (GIS), Unmanned Aerial Systems or Vehicles (UAS/UAV), Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), electronic ticketing, and Infrared Sensing (IR)—is essential for enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in transportation systems. However, the adoption and implementation of these technologies require a well-defined understanding of technology readiness and maturity, which is often misunderstood by DOT personnel.
This dissertation investigates the multifaceted dimensions of technology adoption within DOTs by examining key factors influencing implementation success. A survey-based analysis highlights the critical gap between technology readiness and maturity, revealing both positive and negative correlations that underscore the need for better conceptual clarity. Additionally, the research explores the role of People, Process, and Technology (PPT) in implementation, emphasizing the necessity for a structured and holistic approach to technology adoption.
To further enhance the understanding of successful technology implementation, this study identifies and examines six critical factors: (1) Organizational Structure, (2) IT Infrastructure, (3) Data Security, (4) Information Workflow, (5) Personnel Training, and (6) Stakeholder Engagement. Furthermore, the research explores subfactors within each of these six areas, providing deeper insights into their influence on technology maturity and adoption.
Through a comprehensive methodology—including a literature review, a nationwide survey of 50 state DOTs, and an in-person expert workshop—this research highlights the need for DOTs to assess their maturity levels across these six factors. The study also presents a validated maturity assessment tool, applied through a case study on e-ticketing adoption in five state DOTs (North Dakota, Iowa, Virginia, Delaware, and Pennsylvania). The findings demonstrate that achieving a PPT maturity level of 3 or above is crucial for sustainable and effective technology integration. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of structured training, active stakeholder involvement, iterative learning processes, and robust IT infrastructure in advancing technology maturity and operational efficiency.
By providing insights into technology readiness, maturity models, and critical implementation factors, this research offers a practical decision-making framework for DOTs to prioritize investments, enhance organizational capabilities, and optimize technology adoption strategies. The findings contribute to the advancement of transportation systems, fostering a more efficient, adaptive, and technology-driven future for state DOTs.
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Type
dissertation