How Mobile Technologies Impact
the Transportation Workforce
TRB ABG20 (July 1, 2015)
Michigan Department of
Transportation
Mark Chaput, P.E.
Deputy Director, Bureau of Field Services
ChaputM@Michigan.gov
Mobile Technologies
Paper notes in the Field
• Hand written
• Manage papers
• Exposed to elements
• Misplaced documents
In Vehicle Resources
• Manuals
• Guidebooks
• Plans
• Specifications
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Mobile Technologies
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Mobile Technologies
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Mobile Technologies
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Mobile Technologies
• Cellular and WiFi communications
• Access to project files
• Web Access to resources
(manuals, guidebooks, You Tube
videos, specifications . . .)
• Photo and Video documentation
• Cell Phone, e-mail access
• Video Chat (FaceTime)
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Mobile Technologies
http://www.michigan.gov/econstruction
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Mobile Technologies
http://mdotwiki.state.mi.us/construction/index.php/Main_Page
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Mobile Technologies
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Mobile Technologies
MiBRIDGE Management and Inspection System
• Web-Based, In-House Developed Application
(http://www.michigan.gov/bridgeinspect)
• Mobile devices are used for the collection of
bridge inventory and inspection condition data.
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Mobile Technologies
• The system works with Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox,
Google Chrome and can be used in the field or wherever there
is internet access (3G, 4G, etc)
• System is compatible with several types of mobile devices
(Apple iPhones & iPad, Microsoft Surface, Samsung Tablets,
etc.
• Provided more transparency with FHWA, MDOT Executive
Management and Local Agencies as information can be
accessed anywhere with internet access.
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Mobile Technologies
Mobile Device Use
• No paper forms
• Photo and video capabilities
• Apps for Audio notes
• Phone and Video Chat App
Direct link into System
• Structure inventory data
• Previous inspection reports
• Inspection forms
• Worksheets
• Manuals and guidelines
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Mobile Technologies
Web Access and Data Collection Summary
• Request for Action (Follow-up actions for Critical Findings)
• Work Recommendations
• Network Condition Analysis for long range work planning
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Mobile Technologies
Currently adding functionality to store files
(plans, photos, reports, etc.)
Goal is to have a complete electronic file containing all
information regarding each structure
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Mobile Technologies
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Mobile Technologies
This technology will allow bridge inspectors to collect
specific defect information simply by selected a point on
the bridge and entering the quantity and type of defect.
MDOT is currently testing field proto types using droid
tablets.
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How Mobile Technologies Impact
the Transportation Workforce
TRB ABG20 (July 1, 2015)
Thank You.