III. LESSONS LEARNED AND NEXT STEPS

On Day 2 of the peer exchange, participants from each state DOT highlighted the lessons they had learned and are learning in their efforts to implement GIS for PEL activities. Representatives from each DOT also expressed planned next steps as a result of the peer exchange. These lessons and potential follow up activities are listed below:

• GIS and their maps are not panaceas  – Maps are just one more input to consider. They do not provide the complete answer. Consider them in coordination with all other inputs.
• In the beginning, do not get bogged down in details  – Get buy–in from upper management first, and include resource agency managers in the discussion from the beginning. A culture shift can occur at the staff level of both agencies at the same time. When managers care, staff will find the time to get involved in an integrated process. Make change a celebration.
• Take a team approach to implementing GIS activities  – It is sometimes difficult to create a process to allow GIS to fold into the variety of a DOT's business functions. An integrated team approach facilitates discussion across disciplines and allows business needs to be better understood.
• Partner when possible  – GIS for PEL is really focused on problem-solving. Solutions are likely more easily achieved with the input of all stakeholders.
• Train staff to think conceptually  – Because project development is a complex process, it is important to have personnel on staff that can think conceptually and visualize how GIS might provide support.

Potential Next Steps

• Oregon DOT – Learn more about how GIS is being used in planning. One approach would be to have a one–day information technology showcase. FDOT sponsored one (which has now become an annual event), and staff were amazed at the breadth of ongoing IT activities about which they were unaware.
• Idaho DOT – Convene meetings of planning and environmental staffs to discuss how GIS might be used to better link the divisions.
• Tennessee DOT – Improve working relationship between GIS and planning, and consider new approaches for working with resource agencies.
• South Carolina DOT – Invite planning staff to attend monthly meeting that GIS and environment staffs convene.
• Florida DOT – Consider how GIS can be better used for construction and maintenance purposes. Consider performance measures for the ETDM process.
• Contact FHWA to learn about resources and funding opportunities  – FHWA is developing websites, workshops, trainings, and other communication tools to inform stakeholders about both GIS and PEL. In addition, the FHWA Environmental Competency Building program conducts research and shares information on the current and future multidisciplinary professional development needs of transportation and environmental professionals. There are also funding opportunities from FHWA for other GIS events in Fiscal Year 2008, such as additional peer exchanges.