Analyzing the Use and Policies for Mobile Information Technology Devices within State Departments of Transportation

The use of Mobile IT devices on construction projects is becoming more powerful and increasingly accessible and efficient. The traditional methods for field data collection and communication, such as written record and photograph, carry a higher possibility of making mistakes and longer task completion times. Recently conducted surveys and interviews of staff at state transportation agencies (STAs) in the areas of design, construction, and asset management reflect the current and potential use of hand-held mobile IT devices is on the rise. Based on the investigation results, around 90% of STAs benefit from the application of mobile IT devices in daily contact, accessing standards and manuals, and record entry. STAs believed overall return on investment of mobile IT devices could be around 50%, although about 50% believe they are low implementers of the technologies. While, for most, implementation is in early stages and requires more investment, mobile IT devices are being adapted to overcome shortcomings of traditional on-site communication methods. This means that applications have broad prospects and potential in construction management. The primary contribution to the body of knowledge is to gain an understanding of current practices and present opportunities for STAs to advance methods and improve efficiencies in their use of mobile IT devices nationwide.