Future of Trans XML Workshop NCHRP Project 20

Future of Trans. XML Workshop NCHRP Project 20 -94 Frances Harrison Spy Pond Partners, LLC

Welcome and Introductions Trans. XML: The Basics • An open, vendor-neutral format for storing, exchanging, and archiving transportation data • Supports exchange of data across multiple applications & databases (e. g. GIS to Design/CAD to Construction) • Allows for “loose-coupling” of applications – System A exports Trans. XML data – System B consumes Trans. XML data • Is self-documenting and human-readable • Is only partially built-out • Has not been marketed and supported and is not widely adopted 2

Our Purpose Guide potential future development and implementation of Trans. XML 3

Workshop Objectives 1. Review Trans. XML and potential additions 2. Discuss the business case for expanding & supporting Trans. XML 3. Review the activities required to develop and adopt new and updated common data exchange formats (schemas) 4. Review alternative approaches to schema updating and adoption 5. Identify minimum and desired elements of a formal process for maintaining and updating Trans. XML 6. Identify next steps and associated responsibilities for defining and implementing this process 4

Outcomes • Greater awareness and understanding of – Trans. XML applications, benefits and adoption challenges – Different models for consensus building and adoption of standard data exchange formats • Agreement on a path forward • Concrete next steps & roles for: – – AASHTO FHWA State DOTs Industry 5

Workshop Planning Committee • • • Todd Bergland – Minnesota DOT Frances Harrison – Spy Pond Partners (chair) George Kopp – Missouri DOT (retired) Edgar Kraus, Texas Transportation Institute Mai Le - TRB Jim Mc. Donnell – AASHTO Tom Palmerlee - TRB James Poll – RITA – ITS Joint Program Office George Raymond – Oklahoma DOT Eric Weaver – FHWA 6

Working Session 1 Future Options • Do Nothing • Minimalist Approach – Rely on voluntary efforts to develop and update schemas – Create formal review and adoption process – Manage. Transxml web page and publish updated schemas • Proactive Approach – – Develop sustainable stewardship model Target new schemas for development Maintain and improve existing schemas Outreach, education, pilot projects, etc. 7

From NCHRP Report 576 Functions and Roles for Trans. XML Stewardship • Strategy - Establish clear vision for interoperability based on greatest need and value • Technical Development - Develop, maintain, and promote a family of XML schemas that target these areas; establish and promote technical standards to ensure compatibility, uniformity and nonredundancy • Coordination and Liaison - Participate in and/or endorse other XML schema and standardization efforts; provide industry-wide coordination to ensure coverage across all important segments of the transportation industry 8

From NCHRP Report 576 Functions and Roles for Trans. XML Stewardship (continued) • Advocacy and Support - Promote benefits of Trans. XML, champion and support adoption and development through advocacy, technical assistance and limited financial support • Communication - Provide communication mechanisms and infrastructure to enable appropriate participation in the schema development process 9