While VTRC is known for publishing final research reports, VTRC research scientists are often called upon by VDOT customers to consult on narrowly focused research topics, such as a pavement problem at one very specific location in the state. These consultations are called "Technical Assistance" (TA) projects.
In 2014 the library created a database to track the TA projects produced through VTRC. Today there are nearly 700 project records in that database. TA Project records are displayed with other search results in the Library's Online Catalog, but because the catalog contains more than 175,000 records for all kinds of resources, we recommend focusing your search on TA Projects using this search box:
If you prefer, you can also browse this complete list of TA database records
Most TA projects are easily distinguished from the research projects undertaken at VTRC (which result in VTRC final reports). TA projects are typically short in duration, have a narrow focus, a specific customer, and may or may not be promoted through a VTRC Research Advisory Committee (RAC).
One of the way TA projects differ from applied research projects is the research output associated with them. A VTRC final report is the standard research output for applied research efforts. But TA research can lead to all manner of deliverables, including reports, but also: memoranda, white papers, thorough summary documents, a PowerPoint presentation, a spreadsheet, etc.
What a TA Project Record Shows:
A typical TA Project record in the TA Projects database will list things like: short and full title, principal investigators, technical review members, performing organizations, project start date, contract numbers, and most importantly each will include an abstract describing the work to be undertaken.
Some records also contain a link to Project Documents, however, due to technical limitations of the database those links will only work for employees on the VDOT network.
Sample Record:
For help finding a TA Project Record or related documentation, contact Gil Kenner (434) 293-1926.
