A checklist for planning and implementing Field Operational Tests of Intelligent Transport Systems

Improved knowledge is needed to understand how drivers use intelligent transport systems, the short- and long-term effects of these systems, and how system performance can be optimized. The Field Operational Test, or FOT, is a powerful evaluation method that can be used to answer these and other questions. Although large-scale FOTs conducted in the past have yielded important knowledge, there is scope for improving the design and implementation of them. In this paper a checklist is presented that outlines the critical steps and considerations involved in successfully planning and implementing a FOT. It derives from work previously undertaken in the European Commission (EC)-funded FESTA (Field opErational teSt support Action) project.