The information was introductory in nature, so the presentation level was most satisfactory. I understand a full scale training course
where the students will use RSAP interactively is being readied. This will be a very useful course for designers.
I would like
to see an Advance User webinar on RSAP.
This was a good introduction level webinar for RSAP. A second webinar (intermediate
level) would be helpful to really feel comfortable using RSAP. This would focus on specific applications and changing default
values.
Could have used an actual run through of the program instead of just screen shots.
Presentation was a "how to" use RSAP,
rather than justification for RSAP. Needed more discussion of how vehicle trajectories/encroachments were developed and why
users should have confidence in RSAP results.
Some of the RSAP software screens were difficult to read because of the size and
it could be made more clear which button was activated to go between RSAP screens. Otherwise I will have to try a few examples
to determine ease of use.
If possible, show actual inputs in spreadsheet/program as opposed to just Power Point slides.
The
mathematical basis of the decision process would be more useful than what to put in software blanks. The former is engineering
work, the latter is clerk/technician work. If the software is used daily it is easier. If the software is rarely used
hand analysis is faster and promotes an innate understanding of the methods.
A little longer time should be allotted to better
cover the data entry information. Possibly try actually entering data in spreadsheet rather than just showing images in the
PowerPoint.
The purpose of the webinar was simply to introduce the software and give attendees an idea of what the software is,
how it works and how to get it. There is certainly a need for more in-depth training than could possibly be provided in a one
hour webinar. We have done some live seminars where students down load the software and work step-by-step with the instructors
on example problems to become proficient in using RSAP.
FHWA’s NHI is considering developing some on-line training modules
so if you are interested in that you may want to contact your FHWA resource center. Full-day face-to-face training seminars
can be arranged if there is sufficient demand by contacting the software developer (Roadsafe LLC). Of course downloading the
software and working through the three example problems provided in the User's Manual is also a place to start. The example
problems in the User’s Manual provide step-by-step instructions and the completed input worksheets are also provided on the download
page. Information on the theoretical basis of RSAPv3 can be found in the Engineer’s Manual
How many local agencies actually
use this analysis method?
We do not know although earlier versions of RSAP have been in the Roadside Design Guide since 2002 and similar
benefit-cost models have been in use since the late 1970’s (e.g., Roadside, BCAP and the 1977 Barrier Guide).