Tarmac discusses big data

The term Big Data describes vast, unstructured data that is difficult to analyse. It usually revolves around automation, or getting technology to perform processes in minutes to identify patterns of trends within data that would potentially take people a lifetime.

Thus far, the term is little used in the highways sector, but Neil Pattinson believes that there is scope to embrace its principles: collecting and analysing data not just on the condition and material composition of our roads but also the regular ‘interventions’ that highways contractors make to the local and strategic road networks. Other potentially useful data sets may also be relevant to highways. Traffic flow information can be drawn from satnav applications and even from sensors built into the road surface to add extra granularity. An understanding of data and its impacts is also vital for BIM (Building Information Modelling and Management) Level 2 compliance, due for public sector projects by April 2016.

This can lead to significant opportunities for clients, consultants and contractors. A big data approach could achieve three major things:

The first is finance. Big Data analysis could help to inform spending decisions on the network by utilising lifecycle predictive modelling. This can provide an understanding of the assets whole life cost and performance and can be used to inform local authorities’ asset management plans to help them unlock additional funding streams through the Department for Transport.

The second is quality. Big Data processes could provide a better understanding of the impact of using different materials, employing different contractors and even laying in different conditions.

The last is sustainability. Big Data can provide a better record of the composition of pavements to help understand the quantity and quality of asphalt that could be recycled in the future. Combined with construction quality data, deterioration modelling and traffic information, its use would help improve understanding of whole life performance, and drive a highways model that supports the circular economy by minimising waste and promoting material efficiency.

More than just analysing the existing condition of roads through surveys, the industry needs to be able to record and analyse, in real time, the work that contractors are undertaking on the road network. It is only by doing this that a local authority or network operator can have a detailed and holistic view of their asset now and into the future.

Analysis and interpretation is key and it also calls for the sector to have ‘data literacy’ skills – the ability to read, create and communicate data to clients and supply chain partners as meaningful and actionable information. This is a challenge that requires new skillsets, a cultural change in mindset and investment in technology.

Tarmac has developed a bespoke process which combines data capture during surfacing projects and advanced analysis with reporting to inform client asset management plans.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/europe-cis/08112016/tarmac-discusses-big-data/