Caltrans Five Stages of Research Deployment

1. Concept Stage

First steps following Problem Statement and Proposal Development
Includes detailed literature search
Involves experimental design, data collection, analysis, and reporting
Assesses results of research
Defines barriers to implementation (e.g., policies, specifications, standards)
Submits a Final Report and outlines a recommended implementation plan
Includes collaboration with outside agencies or other state DOTs and US DOT
(Applies to all Stages of Deployment)

2. Laboratory Prototype Stage

3. Controlled Field Demonstration Stage

Prepares for full scale testing of demonstration project
Controlled tests at specialized facilities are observed and supported by cooperating agencies, industry, and technical associations
Potential end users are enlisted to support the field pilot stage
Assesses results
Submits Final Report and recommends site/conditions for first application pilot stage

4. First Application (Contract) Field Pilot Stage

Works with potential end users to select site and to conduct pilot testing under real world operating conditions
Test specifications and standards are developed
Research assistance given to assure proper installation and operation
Problems are corrected and adjustments made, as necessary, to complete pilot testing
To the extent possible, potential end users operate the project under careful research surveillance
Assesses results
Submits Final Report and recommends initial sites for full corporate deployment
Potential end users are enlisted to support the field pilot stage

5. Specification & Standards with Full Corporate Deployment Stage

End users select site(s) and deploy the method/process/equipment using resident management, supervision, staff, and contracting forces (where applicable)
Deployment is without research supervision or direction
On call assistance is available upon request
Assesses results