At this time, relatively few member states track specific aspects of implementation. When it is tracked, members are most likely to track the timing of implementation activities.
Utah’s January 2026 template UDOT Research Results Implementation Plan provides an example of a more comprehensive approach to implementation tracking.
Completion of this form begins as a research project kicks off. Stakeholders in the research effort, including the research champion, implementation champion (if different), research project manager and researcher, collaborate on form completion. The form is revised and supplemented during the life of the research project, continuing through the project’s conclusion as it moves into an implementation phase. Implementation plan form elements include:
Impact of Research Results
- Key findings and recommendations from the research project
- Benefits or impacts from the application of research findings
- Connection between implemented research findings and Utah’s strategic goals and Quality of Life Framework
- Level of financial benefit anticipated from implementation
Implementation Steps
- Description of steps required (resources and approvals needed, promotion of results, information for end users, training, adoption of procedure or standard, evaluation of cost effectiveness)
- Where implementation will take place (division or unit within Utah DOT or the transportation system)
- Implementation timeline (key milestones and target completion date)
- People needed for implementation and their responsibilities
- Costs anticipated and source of funds (cost for materials, equipment and personnel)
- Potential implementation risks and mitigation strategies
Implementation Progress Tracking
- Completed implementation activities
A summary of the completed implementation plan may be included in the project’s final report.
An initial implementation assessment is conducted approximately one year after the research concludes. Utah’s Research & Innovation staff conduct this assessment by engaging with the project’s research or implementation champion.
See the Implementation page for more about member states’ implementation efforts.