This paper introduces the concept of collective information to the transportation safety community. It is a starting point for discussions on the application and feasibility of using collective information for transportation safety data. This paper focuses on the use of these applications for transportation agencies in collection of MIRE data. The authors envision other uses beyond what is discussed here. For example, could collective data be used to supplement the data in the Highway Safety Information System (HSIS) database? What if researchers who use the HSIS data amend the database with additional data they collected as part of their research studies? In addition, there were aspects of collective information that are not addressed in this 14 Collective Information White Paper Final Report White Paper such as how the applications are marketed to the public to solicit participation in the collection.

A logical next step for this concept is the development of a prototype. The prototype would provide an opportunity to explore some issues about the potential application of this concept. The prototype would not cover all situations and types of collection information for transportation data collection applications. Specifically, a good starting point would be a prototype for an intersection inventory. Many agencies are now aware of the importance and value of an intersection inventory. The prototype would demonstrate the concept while identifying additional issues or questions that need to be addressed.

Based on the initial exploration detailed in this paper, collective data collection applications may provide a tremendous opportunity for transportation agencies to cost-effectively collect the data agencies need for data driven decision-making to improve safety on the nation's roadways and should be explored further.