The development of UK bridge management systems

In order to address what maintenance to tackle within given budgetary constraints, bridge managers are now turning to computerized bridge management systems. All too often, however, the capabilities of these systems fail to satisfy the requirements of the potential users. This paper describes a survey of those actively involved in bridge management, aimed at identifying exactly what they do require of such systems and, based on the responses received, a functional specification for a more comprehensive system is proposed. It is suggested that this should have a modular format, adopt a consistent and rational approach based on transparent methodologies and be able to prioritize projects according to a number of criteria. The functional specification proposed provides a basis for the development of a system that it is intended will be both complementary to and compatible with the structures management system currently being developed by the Highways Agency.