Key Benefits of Route Optimization
Save money by treating the same
network with fewer routes. By designing the optimum set of treatment
routes, reductions in route numbers are typically achievable without
compromising existing levels of service (typical route reduction is in the
range of 10-20%, depending upon network type and size, and the overriding
project aims). Vaisala’s independent audit of current treatment methodologies
can also often highlight other areas of the winter service where further
savings can be made.
Enhances Thermal Mapping
information. By designing treatment routes to thermal temperature
categories, route-by-route decision making for selective salting operations
can be considered, adding additional value to existing Thermal
Mapping data.
Below - Forecast Thermal Map with (inset)
individual forecast treatment route, as shown in Vaisala's IceCast IceView
display software.
Helps protect against
litigation. Undertaking a comprehensive Route
Optimization process shows that a service provider takes its
commitments to winter maintenance seriously, and is striving to achieve the
best possible use of its resources. To commission Vaisala’s Route
Optimization service would be acknowledged as a strong commitment
towards achieving Best Practice, and could be a significant advantage if the
integrity of the service provider is ever challenged.
Changing operational
criteria. Performance Indicators such as treatment rates, treatment
times and route efficiencies can often be subject to change due to external
political concerns. Route Optimization ensures that treatment
routes conform to any overriding external pressures imposed on the service
provider.
Resource change and
rationalisation. Route Optimization ensures that
changes to the maintained network, revised depot locations or changes to fleet
number and capacity will be taken into account. Ongoing Route
Optimization contracts can be put in place to cater for year-on-year
changes to routes due to factors such as long-term highway maintenance or
construction projects and staged vehicle procurement.
Succession planning. Control
and modification of treatment routes is often in the hands of an individual or
small team. In an increasingly dynamic working environment, it is
important to ensure that the loss of one or all of these individuals does not
impact on the level of service provided. An independent Route
Optimization exercise can help to ensure that this impact is
minimised.
Reduced environmental impact.
On marginal nights, selective salting via Thermal Routing may mean that only
part of the maintained network will require treatment, leading to both
monetary and environmental benefits in the use of treatment material. An
independent assessment of current treatment methodologies can also highlight
potential improvements in areas such as treatment rates and storage
facilities, which in turn can lead to a reduction in treatment material usage.