Mn/DOT Travel Coordination Study

Information and data for this study were gathered from Mn/DOT's Aeronautics Division and Maintenance Office. Also consulted were individuals involved with travel coordination and policy from Iowa and South Dakota government agencies.

This study focuses on two primary recommendations for improving Mn/DOT's travel procedures. The first involves greatly increasing trip consolidation and coordination. This would be pursued through establishment of a travel coordinator position, development of computerized support, and the institution of "core days" for travel. A successful travel coordination program could affect reductions in travel mileage and fuel consumption that would add up to a substantial dollar savings for the Department.

The second thrust of the study revolves around increasing the utilization of Mn/DOT's aircraft, making them a primary mode of travel for outstate trips. This would be highly desirable in terms of savings in productive time on the part of the travelers.
(The dollar value of this time savings is computed by multiplying hours saved by an average salary figure.) However, it should be noted that the actual dollar cost of flying nearly always exceeds that of driving, often by a substantial amount.