A panel of EOC and GIS personnel talk about recent joint projects utilizing existing technology to consolidate information and improve ability to make data-driven decisions during winter weather events. Data-driven decisions have become the cliché of the day in public works. The wisdom of an aging workforce is hard to transfer to the next generation. How do you teach someone that your gut tells you this next storm is going to be worse than the last and we better get ready? So much of that is based on experience that is nontransferable. We focus on collecting data, reading data, and learning best ways to use data. Our sources of data are varied and come from multiple directions. When data analysis and decision making must happen quickly things can get difficult. North Texas Tollway Authority maintenance crew was using winter weather data sources in three or more separate spreadsheets, three websites, many cameras, and boots on the ground. How can all this information be brought together to make it easier to use to make decisions? The GIS department offered to help using GIS-based maps and dashboards. They created forms to collect data and a dashboard to bring together new and existing data. More than just the people to call when you want a pretty map, they became a partner in how we collect, store, analyze and use data to make decisions in our winter weather operations. The panelists will present a recently piloted program and share future steps and collaborations. Proficiency Level: Introductory Session Evaluation: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TMCMMZ6
By attending this session, participants will be better able to:
• Identify gaps and existing obstacles to data usage.
• Discuss benefits of a strong geographic information systems (GIS) team to maintenance operations.
• Identify how GIS may help with your current challenges.
Contributor/Source
Amanda Lehde -Maintenance Support Manager, John Grissom-Roadway Manager & Sarah Sharp-GIS Manager
Related Resources
Proficiency Levels
Introductory
Focuses on a general or broad overview of the topic, awareness of basic factual recall. Limited experience of the subject matter is necessary to understand content areas.
Applied
Focuses on practical implementation of technical steps or strategies, some prior knowledge and experience of the topic is necessary.
Advanced
Mastery of basic concepts associated with an area has been obtained. Focuses on understanding nuances, advanced concepts, and intricacies with implementation within knowledge area. Strong understanding of how the concept impacts other factors or areas of operations.
Program Types
CLL
Click, Listen & Learn (CLL) are interactive educational webinars. Each program is led by top experts in the field who share new ideas, methods, and technologies in a fast-paced two-hour time frame. These programs are available free to APWA members. CLL programs are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Primer
Primers are used to educate policymakers about public works roles and responsibilities in public rights of way, the impact of federal workforce development policies on the industry and workforce, and the importance of resilient infrastructure.
Public Works Radio Podcast
Public Works Radio is the official podcast of the American Public Works Association (APWA), bringing the stories behind our communities to life. This podcast shines a spotlight on the people and projects that keep our cities running—humanizing the work and the professionals who make it happen. Each episode dives into a wide range of topics designed to educate and inspire, making public works more visible to everyone.
PWX
PWX session recordings cover a wide variety of topics, including integrating modes of transportation, traffic and transit, construction management, emergency management, engineering and technology, fleet and facilities, management, parks and grounds, snow and ice control, and stormwater/flood control, as well as solid waste, roads and bridges and water/wastewater. PWX sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Reporter Articles
APWA Reporter articles are written by public works practitioners on subjects such as solid waste management, water resources, municipal engineering, transportation, equipment services, buildings and grounds, snow removal, and other public works-related topics.
Snow
The Snow Conference session recordings feature public works professionals sharing the latest best practices in managing winter/snow operations more successfully, taking advantage of emerging technologies, understanding and preparing for the challenges ahead, and providing better service to their communities. Snow sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Tech Boxes
A tech box is a PDF take-away that provides information in lists, steps, or defined areas specifically focused on trending technologies.
Virtual Program
Virtual programs are live, interactive educational programs led by top experts in the field who provide timely information or address trending topics within an area. Programs often conclude with an open forum for Q&A.