Advancements in 3D model-based design are reshaping how transportation projects are reviewed, managed, and delivered. TRB hosted a webinar on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM Eastern that shared new practices developed through NCHRP Project 10-113 that help state departments of transportation (DOTs) modernize design quality management for the digital age. The session outlined a new guide for 3D model-based design and digital delivery, featuring process and product control approaches, open data standards, and a five-step review process to audit and certify digital designs. Presenters demonstrated tools that support implementation and discussed how agencies can apply these practices to strengthen design quality management and improve project delivery outcomes.

This webinar was based on NCHRP Research Report 1153: Digital Model–Based Project Development and Delivery: A Guide for Quality Management and NCHRP Web-Only Document 428: Quality Management for Digital Model-Based Project Development and Delivery.

This webinar was sponsored by TRB’s National Cooperative Highway Research Program.

The slides are available. 

Webinar agenda and presenters

1. Guide overview and research impacts – Hala Nassereddine, University of Kentucky

2. Quality management concepts – Francesca Maier, HDR

3. 3D model reviews and implementation considerations for agencies – Jennifer Steen, HDR

4. Setting up for success – Marcia Yockey, HDR

5. Question and answer session moderated by Alexa Mitchell, HDR

The first 60 minutes of the webinar were for presentations and the final 30 minutes were reserved for audience questions.

Learning Objectives

At the end of this webinar, participants can:

1. Describe the hallmarks of robust design quality management

2. Explain the role of software configurations and model development standards in design process control

3. Identify tools and practices to update their organization’s design quality management process for the digital age

Professional Development Hours

This webinar was delivered as a scheduled – e-learning live event and is categorized within RCEP as Technical, Health and Safety.

This webinar shared new practices developed through NCHRP Project 10-113 that help state departments of transportation (DOTs) modernize design quality management for the digital age. The session outlined a new guide for 3D model-based design and digital delivery, featuring process and product control approaches, open data standards, and a five-step review process to audit and certify digital designs.

Professional Development Hours (PDHs) earned on completion of this program were reported to the Registered Continuing Education Program (RCEP). Certificates of Completion are issued to all participants via the RCEP.net online system. Complaints about registered providers may be addressed to RCEP, 1015 15th Street, NW, 8th Fl., Washington, DC, 20005.

American Institute of Certified Planners Certification Maintenance Credits

This webinar was approved by the American Planning Association (APA) for 1.5 Certification Maintenance (CM) Credits. CM credits provide continuing education opportunities for AICP Certified Planners to continue their professional skills and knowledge. To receive CM credits, Certified Planners should visit the TRB event webpage on American Planning Association and register their participation. If you have problems reporting your CM credits or have general questions about the CM program, please contact the APA.