9. Performing Organization Name and Address

Over many years, Global Positioning System (GPS) technology has been adopted by different sections within the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), with no uniform standards for accuracy, operation, hardware, or software. As a result, it was unknown who was using GPS, what makes and models were being used, and for what purposes. The current state of GPS within the Department needed to be assessed and compared with current best practices as defined by use within the Department, other large agencies, and the GPS industry. Surveys and interviews of GPS at DOTD, other organizations using GPS, and vendors of GPS technology have been utilized to formulate management concepts to be considered as best practices for GPS usage at DOTD. The goal of this project was to create a management plan to guide the Department’s use of GPS technology into the future, based on best practices. The plan proposes at least one high quality GPS receiver at each district office and several for sections located at DOTD headquarters. Receivers are to have laser range finders so points can be collected faster and at safe distances. The plan also proposes GPS management through the implementation of a GPS technology committee within DOTD, comprised of GPS users and GPS technology support staff. The committee will drive the overall vision of GPS usage and set standards for databases, operating procedures, coordinate accuracy, and training. Executing the plans will be a GP