October 2003 Maine DOT research peer exchange.

PDFTech ReportState departments of transportationPeer groupsResearch managementProgram managementMarketingEconomicsPartnershipsPolicyMaineMaine. Dept. of TransportationMaine. Dept. of TransportationNTL-PLANNING AND POLICY-PLANNING AND POLICYUS Transportation CollectionA theme or focus area for this exchange was to follow NCHRP Synthesis 280, SevenKeys to Building a Robust Research Program. These keys are:1. Found it on trust \ue2\u20ac\u201c Ensure a trusting relationship between research unit anddepartment.2. Market Boldly \ue2\u20ac\u201c Marketing needs to be an essential part of the research process.3. Root it in Economics \ue2\u20ac\u201c There needs to be an economic rationale for the programsand projects and their justification.4. Make Deals Unabashedly \ue2\u20ac\u201c Programs can be enhanced by establishingrelationships with other research entities.5. Insist on Accountability \ue2\u20ac\u201c Have top managers set the strategic direction forresearch to ensure alignment with department goals.6. Embrace Policy Research \ue2\u20ac\u201c This type of research ensures communicationsbetween top management and research unit.7. Empower the Staff \ue2\u20ac\u201c Provides a climate for successful delivery of researchprojects