They use computers and advanced technology communications systems to support the efficient and safe flow of people and goods in a metropolitan area. Here, all of the information about the roadway system is brought together and processed. Decisions are made and implemented for managing real-time and predicted traffic problems.
Computers compile and display the data automatically collected on the roadway.
They carry out routine computations and they store and communicate information. However, even with powerful computers, much of the communication and most of the critical decisionmaking are done by human operators. Designing the center to optimize the performance of both computers and human operators is an important job for the designer. The center design must take into account the characteristics, capabilities, and limitations of people, communication systems, and computers in order to promote quality traffic management. One of the best sources of information on which to base design recommendations is past experiences with similar designs.