This report explains how the traffic management systems (TMSs) are complex operational systems. TMSs enable human operators to facilitate improvements in the efficiency, safety, and predictability of travel on the surface transportation system. TMSs combine field equipment, information technology and communications, software, and other tools to collect and synthesize traffic data, integrate external systems, and enable command and control of intelligent transportation system field devices.

Traffic management relies on timely decisionmaking in support of monitoring traffic conditions, detecting and managing unplanned events, scheduling and managing planned events, improving traffic signal timing, assessing and planning for adverse weather, and managing critical infrastructure. The management and operation of TMSs rely on an agency expert’s decisionmaking, which involves unique knowledge, skills, and experience. Improving the timeliness and effectiveness of decisionmaking is a focus for agencies exploring opportunities to improve how they manage and operate TMSs, and improve safety and travel.

Recommended citation: Federal Highway Administration, Decision Support for Traffic Management Systems (Washington, DC: 2023) https://doi.org/10.21949/1521988.