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NEXT STEPS 67
time differences, and hardware needs. Providing training Frank Koppelman suggested in the opening session
to staff in the use of new software is also critical. that we may be talking at each other rather than talking
We are actually taking a step backwards at Metro. We with each other. Speakers in a number of sessions further
have an activity-based model that has been used on a suggested that the largest obstacle we face may be that
number of studies. We are working with the Oregon the product we are selling is not exactly what our cus-
Department of Transportation and other MPOs in the tomers want to buy. This situation places modelers in a
state to conduct a new travel survey over the next few reactive position and makes our jobs more difficult. As
years. At Metro, we plan to use the results in a number planners, we want to look ahead and have a proactive
of different ways. First, we will use the results to check role in shaping the future direction of the transportation
the parameters of our four-step model and update the system. We need to be sure that travel demand models
model as needed. We will continue to use this model. help address key questions and enhance the discussion of
Second, we will use the survey data to help develop our future transportation needs.
new activity model. We will then be able to compare the Regional planning reform is moving forward in
results from the two models and help advance the dis- Chicago. One of my favorite icons for Chicago, New
cussion related to activity models. York City, or any other large metropolitan area with a
significant financial market is the picture of the floor of
Kermit Wies the stock exchange with people shouting and waving
their arms. There seems to be a blind faith that whatever
T he previous speakers did an excellent job of high-
lighting many of the key issues discussed by speak-
ers and summarizing the critical challenges that we face
the situation is when the closing bell rings, it is the best
thing that could have happened. This same situation may
exist with travel models. I think we are doing a better job
in advancing the state of the practice. Because the title of listening to each other. I think we hear what relates to
of this session includes institutional issues, my com- our agency and situation. What I have been most
ments focus on what a cultural anthropologist attending inspired by is that the biggest success stories seem to be
the conference might observe related to what the mod- tied to a person or a team of people, rather than an
eling community is trying to do about what we think is agency, who really want to implement a new model or a
the problem. new approach. I think significant advances in the model-
A number of comments have been made at the con- ing practice will be made by committed individuals. I
ference that modelers focus on the modeling process and would like to see the modeling profession continue to
the model results and that we do not become actively focus on moving beyond reacting to issues and to
involved in the decision-making process. Suggestions become more proactive in policy discussions.
were made that we let others make decisions on issues in
which we have expertise and that we are not proactive in
participating in the decision-making process. Ken Cervenka moderated this session.
