Facilitating network operations planning: a case study of the vicroads smartroads framework

An increasing number of jurisdictions are seeking new ways to manage the competing needs of different modes on increasingly congested road networks. Network Operations Planning (NOP) is becoming ‘best practice’ in managing multi-modal transport networks. This paper presents a critical review of the implementation of SmartRoads, an NOP framework developed by VicRoads. The aim of the research is to gain an understanding of the key factors that constrained and facilitated the implementation of SmartRoads. A theoretical framework is developed based on the integration of the theories of institutional legitimacy, organisational champion and stakeholder engagement. The research utilised interviews with both internal and external stakeholder to identify key benefits, constraints and facilitators. The findings of the analysis suggest that the successful implementation of such frameworks requires legitimacy at the institutional, organizational and external stakeholder levels, which is facilitated by government endorsement, championing and stakeholder engagement, respectively.