How-To
Benchmarking Performance Using the FHWA's TPM Dashboards
The AASHTO TPM Portal offers a benchmarking tool that allows state DOTs to compare outcomes and practices with peer organizations (https://benchmarking.tpm-portal.com/). It uses FHWA's TPM dashboards for the data. The platform was originally developed under NCHRP Project 20-118. Three types of analyses are supported:
- Peer analysis, in which an agency can compare performance to its peers.
- Trend analysis, in which an agency can track changes in its performance over time.
- Peer trend analysis, in which an agency’s performance can be compared to the performance of its peers over the same time period.
The platform also facilitates the exchange of information between users to support continued improvement.
The TPM platform facilitates benchmarking through a 3-step process.
Step 1: Find Peers
Using the Peer Selection tool provided, agencies can select a particular state DOT to compare to or can create a group of peer agencies using available characteristics such as annual budget, mileage, percent of urban miles, AASHTO region, climate, or population.
Step 2: Compare Performance
The platform supports the comparison of the FHWA’s national performance measures, including any of the safety measures, pavement and bridge condition measures, or system reliability and freight movement measures. Graphs present trends based on the selected performance measures and peer agencies.
Step 3: Learn and Improve
Member agencies can use the platform to reach out to peer agencies to learn more about noteworthy practices. The benchmarking network supports sharing of best practices. Users appreciate the ability to contact peers to discuss common issues or to identify strategies for improvement.