Better information for your journey
The National Traffic Control Centre collects real-time information on road conditions.
The Project Control Framework
On 1st April 2008 we launched the Project Control Framework. The Framework sets out how we, together with the Department for Transport, manage and deliver major improvement projects.
Traffic news on your desktop
Helpful ways to access the latest traffic information when you need it.
Section 4 - Agency's current thinking
The Agency is looking to develop a generic framework of performance measures at both output and outcome levels that can be applied to different contracts commensurate with the level of transfer of responsibility and risk.
One model for specifying outcomes based on understanding needs and processes is the '4D Model' shown below.
Figure 1: Performance Specification Model
The 'Deliver' level of the diagram in Figure 1 contains and states the desired outcomes. These represent the overall requirements of the contract and would be focused on the Agency's stated aims and objectives or vision. This is the level at which a performance based contract would aim to measure the service delivered by the supplier.
The 'Demonstrate' level of the diagram represents the processes that are carried out to support delivery of the outcomes. These processes equate generally to 'outputs'. The Agency would require assurance that these issues have been properly considered but would not specify how they are to be addressed.
The 'Detail' level represents the quality management procedures that will need to be in place as part of any contract. The Agency would not need to be involved in this detail but would need to know that the system was in place and available for audit if required.
The 'Develop' arrow represents the need for continuous improvement over time.
A process model in the format described above provides a line of sight between detailed procedures and high-level outcomes. Being able to clearly define this route allows both the HA and suppliers to identify processes that contribute to the delivery of required outcomes.
Understanding this allows purposeful management of change and therefore drives continuous improvement.
Six generic measures have been initially identified and proposed as the key performance indicators for delivery as shown in Figure 2: The measures will need to be made specific to reflect the contribution that the supply chain makes in achieving the required overall objectives.
Figure 2 - Key Performance Indicators
The Agency is now considering a range of options for applying the performance regime:
Option 1: Developing Existing Specifications
The Agency could retain the present mix of prescriptive and output based specifications. The current documentation (the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB), Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works (MCHW), etc) could be maintained, with changes in line with the European standards. Improvements to the departures from standards process could be introduced with a change in culture to encourage greater innovation. In addition, the Agency would continue to improve current Performance Specifications for Routine and Winter Maintenance.
This approach would represent the status quo and is seen as a low risk but low benefit strategy. A potential risk for the Agency and its suppliers is that of lost opportunities to make substantial improvements.
This represents specifications aimed at the detailed procedures level in the 4D model.
Option 2: Performance Specification for Maintenance only
The current Performance Specifications for routine and maintenance work could be expanded to include design and delivery of major maintenance and renewal of network assets e.g. earthworks, pavements, drainage, structures, environmental aspects and other elements. New specifications will build on the existing standards and specifications. The current documentation (DMRB, MCHW) would be used for guidance purposes and for testing "equivalence" where necessary.
This approach would aim at the output level of the 4D model.
Option 3: Full Performance Specifications
This option is an outcome based performance specification for all design, construction and network management activities. It includes defining high level measures such as those referred to above. This is expected to substantially change the existing level of risk transfer between the Agency and the suppliers. At the same time, this is expected to offer more freedom for suppliers to innovate.
This option would aim to specify the outcomes that the Agency needs to achieve without reference to inputs or procedures. Under this option the future of the DMRB in its present format would be uncertain.
