Operating Environments

The operating environments are defined as a combination of the following key factors:

  • physical characteristics of the road
  • network typology
  • traffic flow characteristics
  • existence of safety problems

In addition, a specific road network element may be characterized by attributes such as recurring weather problems, a particular sensitivity for environmental impacts and particular importance for freight transport. The classification method allows for such attributes to be added to the operating environment identified.

The operating environments proposed for EasyWay Core European ITS services are defined in a step-by-step approach, in which a road operator can allocate a road or a section of a road, taking into account the indicators listed above. It has to be noted that the Operating Environments are obtained through a qualitative and sequential approach, in order to make it simple and easily used in any part of the road network.

OE current classification for Finland
OE current classification for Finland

 

Operating environments are used to classify the road network into categories used by the road operators in selecting the appropriate ITS services to be provided and their service level. The operating environments are also expected to reflect the needs and expectations of road users with regard to ITS services and their qualities on different types of roads. The operating environments have an important role in EasyWay Deployment Guidelines and Road Map processes, and the actions related to operating environments are coordinated by a specific Operating Environments Task Force under ICT ESG6

Process for Classification of Operating Environments

  1. Draft OE package created by Operating Environments Task Force - April 2011
  2. EasyWay workshop on OEs, May 18th 2011 - see the dedicated page here.
  3. Operating Environments Task Force finalise OE package - May 2011
  4. EW Steering Committee adopts the OE package - June 2011
  5. Member States classification starts - June 2011. Supporting documents for the classification process can be found here.
  6. EasyWay Operating Environments training and guidance workshop, 7 of September 2011 Brussels. Minutes and presentation can be found here.
  7. Member States finalise the classification, by latest December 2011