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Panel Discussion: State DOT experiences with RFP creation. MDSS Stakeholder Meeting Falls Church, VA August 10-11, 2006. Paul Pisano, Team Leader Road Weather Management Federal Highway Administration Washington, DC. Motivation.
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Panel Discussion: State DOT experiences with RFP creation MDSS Stakeholder Meeting Falls Church, VA August 10-11, 2006 Paul Pisano, Team Leader Road Weather Management Federal Highway Administration Washington, DC
Motivation • Many State DOTs are interested in creating RFPs that include MDSS capabilities • RFPs should include not only the current state of the practice but also should strive for innovation • Service providers will better understand what DOTs are expecting for products and services
RFP Template Document • As part of FHWA’s technology transfer and outreach program, NCAR has created a “Functional Specification Template and Procurement Guidance” document • Hard copies are available at the check in desk • Soft copies will be available at www.rap.ucar.edu/projects/rdwx_mdss/index.html • Aurora will be compiling specifications on its website at www.aurora-program.org
Discussion • Several State DOTs have recently completed RFP acquisitions that included MDSS functionality • The representatives will be able to describe their experiences: • Kent Mayer, Nevada DOT • Darrell Bingham, Arizona DOT • Mike Adams, Wisconsin DOT • Jim Dowd, Iowa DOT
Discussion Questions (1 of 2) • How was writing a RFP for MDSS services different from writing a RFP for winter maintenance support? • Did you put more of an emphasis on weather forecasts or treatment recommendations? • Did you require weather, pavement or treatment verification reports?
Discussion Questions (2 of 2) • Do you feel that you are aware of the current state of the practice in weather forecasting and services? • Did you require a stepped or phased in approach to building a MDSS capability? • Did you include vendor-supplied training?