Author: aashtowarebridge

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force is excited to announce the release of AASHTOWare Bridge Management (BrM) version 6.7. This is the last major release before the overhaul of BrM (version 7.0) to meet the new coding guide requirements as well as improve the product’s framework for sustainability. The Task Force would also like to thank the Beta Testing TAG for all their hard work over the last several months, including traveling to Pittsburgh, PA in February for an onsite beta testing session with Mayvue. All testing and user recommendations to improve this release were invaluable.

This release delivers several high-priority enhancements, user improvements, and bug fixes:

• NBI Conversion Profiles – This enhancement was the top-voted user priority for BrM since the 2021 BrMUG. This enhancement separates each bridge component (deck, superstructure, substructure, and culvert) into its own profile, providing the user with more flexibility and control.
• Ancillary Assets Module – This module enables agencies to create certain transportation infrastructure asset types and define fields and elements necessary to conduct inspections as well as collect inspection data and multimedia. It provides various other enhancements including permissions, updates to the mapping widget for ancillary assets, adding previous comment control, editing the landing page, and much more. It is noted that the BrM SuperSite license support is limited to bridges, tunnels, dams, and structural roadway appurtenances and does not cover other asset types (e.g., office buildings, pavement, etc.).
• Visual Dashboard Editor (VDE) – This tool allows agencies to create dashboards by querying the BrM database and modifying the output to their needs. This provides visual and summary information for all sorts of uses. Additionally, the dashboard responds with counts from the queries and allows the user to open the results in the table below. The 6.7 release comes with an out-of-the-box, default dashboard that is shown below. The Task Force plans to host a webinar covering the setup, querying, and various uses of the dashboard enhancements added in BrM 6.7.
  
• Request for Action (RFA) – Added the Ancillaries > Sign Request for Action task, as well as an RFA landing page to the Admin > General Config > Manage Asset Types task, and added a Request for Action as a context in subfolders in Admin > General Config > Multimedia.
• BrM Cookie Setting Updates – BrM 6.7 now allows users to log into more than one instance of BrM at a time.
• Configurable Landing Page – Added the ability for a user to configure its landing page by using a selector on the user profile page.
• Element Specification – Added a checkbox to allow for setting elements as active/inactive and added a modeling-only checkbox to all for an element to be part of deterioration modeling but prevent it from being selectable in the Element Condition grid.  
• Bulk Utility Task – BrM 6.7 adds the Analysis > Bulk Utility task to calculate and view the utility value and health index of selected bridges based on a selected weight profile. This was on the user group’s priority list as well.
• Various Bug Fixes and Improvements – The full list is supplied with the release notes.

Download BrM 6.7 Now

AASHTOWare BrM 6.7 and supporting documentation are now available for download from ShareFile:

• BrM67_Enterprise(64bit).zip – This is the install for BrM Enterprise if you have BrM installed.
• BrM67_Workstation.zip – This is the install for BrM Workstation if you do not have BrM installed.
• BrM67_Updater.zip – This is for those that already have BrM 6.x installed and want to upgrade to the latest version.

BrM 6.7 Release Video

Please make sure to read the attached Release Notes and supporting documentation before installing BrM 6.7. Email brm@mayvue.com with any questions or concerns, or if any issues during the installation process.

Sincerely,
The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force

February 2023

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force product update is provided to keep all AASHTOWare Bridge Management (BrM) Software users apprised of recent activity related to the development of the software. The Task Force is committed to providing quarterly updates to help improve communication between the Task Force and those interested in the product.

BrM 7.0

Mayvue is working on the BrM 7.0 updates as final details are being defined. Specifically, a meeting with the Database TAG will be occurring in the near term to define the 7.0 database structure. The early 7.0 release is planned for Spring/Summer 2023, at which time the agencies that have contributed the full solicitation amount will receive a test environment where they can see the latest development progress and begin testing. The Mayvue-supplied cloud-hosted environment will be updated as development progress is made until the official 7.0 release is provided to users in 2024. As part of this process, Mayvue will be reaching out to the contributing agencies to define the unique needs associated with the cloud-hosted environments. The Task Force, Mayvue, and the user community alike are excited that this next chapter in the BrM lifecycle is underway. Please reach out to the Task Force members if you have questions.

BrM 6.7 Status Update

BrM 6.7 is fully developed and is currently being beta tested. Members of the Testing TAG traveled to Pittsburgh, PA during the week of February 6th, 2023, to complete testing of the 6.7 release in person with Mayvue. The testing was successful and yielded a few changes before it is ready for official release to the user community. In the meantime, beta testing is continuing at the agency’s offices while Mayvue builds another release for consideration.

As previously discussed, the 6.7 release includes a Dashboard tool that enables agencies to set up, manage, and view a variety of visualizations within BrM. The release also provides a much-anticipated Ancillary Assets module that will enable agencies to set up various (transportation infrastructure specific) asset types and begin collecting inventory and inspection data. An NBI conversion profile enhancement, which was high on the user priority list is provided in the release as well. Finally, Mayvue has added various other features and maintenance fixes since the 6.6 release in July 2022.

BrM 6.7 should be available to the user community in March 2023 and will be the last version 6.X release of BrM. Future releases will use the BrM 7.X platform in support of the new coding guide.

Dashboards – BrM 6.7 Highlight of Coming Functionality

Dashboards have been a highly anticipated addition to the BrM software for several years. This was the highest voted priority for users during the 2021 BrMUG. The 6.7 release will provide a dashboard widget that supplies users with tools to create and modify their visual dashboards within BrM.

User-defined queries pull data from the database into visual dashboards. Agencies can create these dashboards and use the Visual Forms Editor to display specific information on pages of their choice. The release notes will provide users with examples and additional information to quickly generate dashboards, as it requires some setup and querying to be properly handled.

We look forward to seeing the interesting and useful dashboards that users create at the next BrMUG!

Solicitation Update

The Task Force would like to thank the agencies who have contributed to the 7.0 solicitation efforts. These contributions are ensuring the BrM software will meet the new coding guide requirements and take full advantage of the opportunity to create a sustainable product for the next generation. To those who are still working internally to contribute – your support is still needed. We understand this is can be a complicated process and we thank you for the efforts to push this to fruition. If your agency has not contributed, there is still time to do so. Every contribution helps to make the product better and more sustainable. Please reach out to the Task Force, Mayvue, and/or Ryan Fragapane for more information about the benefits and process for contributing.

We are all excited about the result: A new version of the BrM software that meets the new NBIS rules and the ever-growing needs of transportation agencies.

AASHTOWare BrM Mobile Inspection powered by Mayvue

Member Departments and Associate Members wishing to use the AASHTOWare Bridge Mobile Inspection powered by Mayvue can license this application through AASHTO.

This application enables agencies to conduct inspections via Android and Apple phone or tablet devices remotely. It works offline and online to allow inspectors to collect inspection information without an internet connection. Please reach out to Mayvue or Ryan Fragapane for more information or to request a demonstration for your agency.

Save the Date

Please save the date for the 2023 Bridge Management User Group (BrMUG) meeting which will be held September 19 – 20, 2023 in Boise, ID.

November 2022

Solicitation Update

While contributions to the solicitation continue to come in, the work plan for the BrM 7.0 software release is being finalized. AASHTO, the Task Force, and Mayvue recently held a kickoff call for contributing agencies to review the work plan and schedule. Mayvue is working on an early release of BrM 7.0, which will be delivered to contributing agencies as cloud-hosted sites to enable them to begin transitioning to the next version of the software. These hosted sites will be updated frequently until the official 7.0 release is available.

The Task Force will host a series of calls for contributing agencies leading up to the official release. Agencies can use this time to provide input while development is progressing. The software will be delivered to agencies on schedule to ensure there is adequate time to implement, train internal staff, and hit the ground running to meet all NBIS needs.

To those that have already contributed to this important endeavor – We cannot thank you enough! Your contributions have ensured that this software will meet the new requirements as it is rewritten and will take full advantage of the opportunity to create a sustainable product for the next generation. To those who are still working internally to contribute – We know this is a process and thank you as well. If your agency has not contributed, there is still time to do so. Every contribution helps to make the product better. Please reach out to the Task Force, Mayvue, and/or Ryan Fragapane for more information about the benefits and process for contributing.

We are all excited about the result: A new version of the BrM software that meets the new NBIS rules and the ever-growing needs of transportation agencies.

BrM 6.7 Development Status

Mayvue recently surpassed the 75% development completion mark of the BrM 6.7 release and demonstrated the progress to the Testing TAG in early November. This release includes a Dashboard tool that enables agencies to set up, manage, and view a variety of visualizations within BrM. Additionally, the Ancillary Assets module will enable agencies to set up asset types and begin collecting inventory and inspection data for those assets.

Over the next two months, Mayvue will complete the development effort and transition into beta testing. In February 2023, Members of the Testing TAG will travel to Pittsburgh, PA to perform a hyper-focused beta testing session with Mayvue. The official release of BrM 6.7 will occur in March 2023. This release will be the last version 6 release of the software. The next official release will be on the new platform as BrM 7.0 in June 2024.

AASHTOWare Bridge Management Product Update

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force product update is provided to keep all AASHTOWare Bridge Management (BrM) Software users apprised of recent activity related to the development of the software. The Task Force is committed to providing quarterly updates to help improve communication between the Task Force and those interested in the product.

AASHTOWare BrM Mobile Inspection powered by Mayvue

Member Departments and Associate Members wishing to use the AASHTOWare Bridge Mobile Inspection powered by Mayvue can license this application through AASHTO.

This application enables agencies to conduct inspections via Android and Apple phone or tablet devices remotely. It works offline and online to allow inspectors to collect inspection information without an internet connection. Please reach out to Mayvue or Ryan Fragapane for more information or to request a demonstration for your agency.

Reminder: BrM 6.6 is Available

BrM 6.6 was released to the user community in July 2022 and is available for download on the BrM ShareFile site. This release includes functionality requested by the user community, including:

• Funding by Project Allocation
• Critical Findings/Request for Action Module
• User Certification Module
• Multimedia Enhancements (various)
• Excel Projects Upload Enhancement
• BrM Mapping Widget

Please reach out to Mayvue if you need access to the installation files. If you are a cloud hosted agency, email Mayvue to request an upgrade and coordinate the timing.

2022 BrMUG

It was great to see the BrM user community in person again after two years of virtual meetings. We would like to thank all those who attended and presented this year. There was a heavy focus on the plans for BrM 7.0 and the next steps as well as interesting presentations from various States. We hope everyone felt well-informed and learned more about the software and the future direction. We noticed many good conversations spilled over into the hallways and the after-hour events. We look forward to continued excitement next year in Boise, ID (more information to come).

If you’re interested in reviewing any of the presentations from this year’s BRMUG, please visit the 2022 User Group Meeting page.

New BrMUG Officers

During the BrMUG, new officers were elected to lead this event for the coming years. We welcome the new volunteers:

• Ryan Cram, President (KYTC)
• Jack Legler, Secretary (ITD)
• Emily Bickley, VP of Inspections (SCDOT)
• Jacob Armour, VP of Modeling (MIDOT)
• Corey Cowden, VP of Projects (Caltrans)

We sincerely thank the previous BrMUG officers for their time, dedication, and commitment to the BrM software and user community.

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force is pleased to announce the release of AASHTOWare Bridge Management (BrM) version 6.6. This release provides a wide range of prioritized enhancements and new functionalities to BrM agencies. Agencies now have access to log and track Critical Findings, enter and manage User Certifications, and inventory and inspect Sign assets, to name a few. The summary list of everything included in 6.6 can be found below.

What’s New in BrM 6.6

• Program Funding Allocation Enhancements – These enhancements allow agencies to subdivide by project category, providing agencies with more granular results from their optimizations. 
• Critical Findings Module – This module allows an agency to create and manage bridge-level Critical Findings, configure approval workflows for newly submitted Critical Findings, and report Critical Findings to configured FHWA contacts. In addition, agency administrators can view a dashboard of all Critical Findings, assign tasks (inspections, load ratings, etc.) to BrM users as part of resolving a Critical Finding, mark addressed Critical Findings as resolved, and create Work Candidates via Critical Finding Intermediate Actions. 
• User Certifications – This module allows an agency to create and manage agency-level Experience Types (such as Bridge Inspection Experience), Certifications (such as 130055 Safety Inspection of In-Service Bridges), and Qualifications (such as Bridge Inspection Team Lead). Agencies can write SQL queries defining the combination of Experience Types and/or Certifications required for a given user to qualify for a Qualification, configure whether users may upload their own Experience Types and Certifications via the existing Profile page, and upload and manage user Experience Types and Certifications on user’s behalf via existing Admin > Security > Users task. In addition, agencies can review and approve user-submitted Certifications, configure email notifications for expiring Certifications, grant temporary Qualifications to users that have not submitted full documentation, and suspend existing Qualifications. 
• Signs Module – The Signs module allows an agency to manage their Signs inventory and inspections within BrM and provides a designated list view for Signs assets, as well as Inventory and Inspection tasks. Similar to the Tunnels module within BrM, the Signs module is part of the continued evolution of BrM into an asset management platform. The module will leverage many of the existing tools and features already built into BrM and will allow agencies to configure certain parts of the module to inventory and inspect assets (including elements) in accordance with their agency policies.
• Asset Element Condition Grid – The enhancements to the Asset Element Condition Grid control in Visual Form Editor provides support for existing ancillary asset types of Tunnel and Signs as well as any agency-created Ancillary Asset types.
• Multimedia Enhancements – Allows an agency to define Multimedia Sub-Category values and to map those values to existing Category values to more granularly define the Category and Sub-Category of a given Multimedia file.
• Additional Enhancements:
  • Mapping Widget – Added a Mapping Widget that can be added to any new or existing Visual Form Editor task.
  • ODBC Alternative – Added ADO as an available connection type on the Admin > Security > Databases task.
  • Enhanced Excel Output for LCCA Plans – Added the ability to include both the inputs and outputs in the Excel output for LCCA plans.
  • LCCA Plans Work Candidate Label – Modified the Actions list view in Create/Edit Plan to display if the added action was added as a work candidate.
  • Pyramid Navigation – Added the Admin > Modeling Config > Pyramid task as a visual representation of the tasks within BrM, in alignment with the training sessions/materials. This visual includes links to each task in the process.
• Various bug fixes and improvements (full list supplied with the release notes).

BrM 6.6 Release Video

The changes included in the latest release, AASHTOWare BrM 6.6, are also highlighted in this release video:

Download BrM 6.6 Now

AASHTOWare BrM 6.6 and supporting documentation are now available for download from ShareFile. 

• BrM6_Enterprise(64bit) – This is the install for BrM Enterprise if you have BrM installed.
• BrM6_Workstation – This is the install for BrM Workstation if you do not have BrM installed.
• BrM66_Updater – This is for those that already have BrM 6.x installed and want to upgrade to the latest version.

Please make sure to read the Release Notes and supporting documentation prior to installing BrM 6.6. Email brm@mayvue.com with any questions or concerns, or if there are any issues during the installation process.

Sincerely,
The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force is eager to respond to the updated National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) and Specifications for the National Bridge Inventory (SNBI). The AASHTOWare business model strives to keep the annual cost of the software as low as possible for all member agencies. However, at strategic times, AASHTO must pursue solicitations to be able to respond to major initiatives, such as changes in federal law or policy. This solicitation will ensure that the AASHTOWare Bridge Management (BrM) software maintains regulatory compliance, improves product functionality, and builds sustainability all in one effort. The Task Force requests that all member agencies contribute to this important initiative. Full participation in the solicitation will ensure that AASHTOWare will not only implement the new inspection requirements into BrM well in advance of Federal deadlines but also allow agencies to continue bridge management in the new format.

Timeline

Date	Summary
September 2022	States to notify AASHTO of intent to participate and contributing agencies are encouraged to submit work plan comments to the AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force.
October 2022	Solicitation work plan finalization, development of BrM 7.0 starts.
February 2023	BrM 6.7 release – Includes NBI Conversion upgrades, Dashboards, and Ancillary Assets (advancement to the multi-asset framework). The effort is already underway.
Spring 2023	BrM 7.0 (early) release – Available for contributing agencies on a Mayvue hosted environment. Focused on data collection, first version of the migration tool, and data validation. Agencies can adapt their reports, APIs, and business practices to the new requirements.
March 2024	BrM 7.0 release – Complete inspection overhaul including visual form editor (VFE) for custom forms, inspection types, QA/QC module, multimedia, etc.
January 2025	BrM 7.1 release – Updates to the Optimizer, Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA), and Analysis tools using the new data format, in preparation for the 2026 TAMP submittal!
March 2026	First NBI submittal reported to FHWA in SNBI format. Data can consist of mostly transitioned data that has not yet been collected using the SNBI or verified as conformant with the SNBI.

Transition Plan and Incentives

BrM will deliver a seamless transition to the new inspection and data standards. Agencies will be able to continue performing inspections and execute their management programs as planned. This approach allows an agency to transition to the new format on their timeline and well ahead of the FHWA deadlines. There will be early software-as-a-service (SaaS) releases to avoid multiple instance installations and IT-related delays until the BrM 7.1 release. The early release will also allow agencies to begin collecting data in SNBI format and satisfy the FHWA March 2028 milestone date. This will be particularly useful for bridges at extended inspection intervals.

Agencies that participate in the solicitation will receive key incentives: the ability to submit their comments to the work plan governing this effort, receiving early releases before official access to begin using the new standards for data collection, updated reports and API connections, and an early start to begin training inspectors and management staff. Furthermore, contributors will receive free cloud-hosting services during the transition to avoid IT complications and/or confusion associated with running two on-premises AASHTOWare Bridge Management instances. Additional benefits and incentives will be discussed during the upcoming BrM User Group meeting.

Contribution Options

Contributions to this solicitation are critical to the success of this transition and the long-term sustainability of the BrM software. $300,000 per member agency is strongly encouraged but greater or lesser amounts will be gladly accepted. Agencies can use existing service units from any AASHTOWare product or make contributions over multiple fiscal years if needed. Additionally, AASHTO has coordinated with the FHWA to allow contributors to use State Planning and Research (SP&R) funds at 100% Federal participation (0% State match) for this initiative if your agency permits. If you have any funding-related questions, please contact the AASHTOWare Bridge Project Manager (Ryan Fragapane, rfragapane@aashto.org).

Note: Funding in advance of the work plan can be committed to AASHTO via the FY2023 Member Software Request Form: Additional Enhancement Funding. All funding will be reserved to support the project solicitation.

Information related to this solicitation timeline, work plans, progress, funding, and more can be found at https://www.aashtowarebridge.com/bridge-management/solicitation/.

February 2022

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force product update is provided to keep all AASHTOWare Bridge Management (BrM) Software users apprised of recent activity related to the development of the software. The Task Force is committed to providing quarterly updates to help improve communication between the Task Force and those interested in the product.

BrM Version 6.6 Release Update

While Mayvue is developing the Signs module, the Testing TAG has been hard at work beta testing the other significant portions of the 6.6 release that were previously completed including: 

• Funding by Project Allocation
• Critical Findings/Request for Action Module
• User Certification Module
• Addressed Accrued Technical Debt
• Multimedia Enhancements (various)
• Excel Projects Upload Enhancement 
• BrM Mapping Widget

In the coming weeks, Mayvue will complete 50% of the entire Signs module, followed by 100% development completion in April 2022. At the 100% completion milestone, Mayvue will conduct an additional demonstration of the 6.6 release to the Testing TAG, focusing on the Signs module functionality. Following the demonstration, the Testing TAG will complete another round of beta testing focused entirely on the Signs module prior to providing their release recommendation to the Task Force.

The version 6.6 release is targeted for late May or early June 2022.

NBIS/SNBI Compliance Solicitation Brochure

In January 2022, the Task Force distributed a digital NBIS/SNBI Compliance Solicitation Brochure to the member agency BrM licensees. The brochure highlights the forthcoming NBIS/SNBI solicitation and the importance of contributions to ensure the sustainability of the AASHTOWare Bridge Management software.

This informational brochure provides pertinent details such as the expected contribution amount, elements of the work plan to incorporate SNBI mandates and support the sustainability of the software, and benefits for contributing agencies. The NBIS/SNBI solicitation brochure is intended to inform AASHTOWare Bridge Management end-users, but also includes important information for other decision-makers and management within your agency.

The Task Force requests that you read and forward this brochure to others within your agency and begin taking steps to contribute to this important endeavor. 

BrM Version 6.7 Planning

During the January 2022 Task Force meeting, the scope for the version 6.7 work plan was discussed in detail. The Task Force is focused on adding meaningful functionality to BrM while balancing the potential for the release of the new coding guide in the coming months and the potential need to pivot development activities to focus on the Coding Guide Solicitation project. As a result, the Task Force and Mayvue discussed several potential options for the 6.7 work plan including a small, medium, and large release. Having options will allow flexibility for Mayvue to complete work in sequential order and the ability to quickly pivot to new coding guide efforts immediately following the release of the new coding guide. 

One of the major planned functionalities for the 6.7 release is a Dashboard tool that will allow agencies to set up, manage, and view a variety of visualizations within BrM on a centralized page.

Mayvue is currently drafting the 6.7 work plan, with options, for Task Force review. The Task Force plans to communicate the finalized plan and schedule for version 6.7 in an upcoming product update.

New Coding Guide Efforts Initiated

The Task Force has authorized Mayvue to get a jump on certain deliverables required to issue the solicitation request once the coding guide is released. Specifically, a high-level work plan will be provided to agencies as a component of the Coding Guide Project Solicitation documentation. Mayvue is working to define the work plan items, create visual mockups where needed, build high-level release plans and schedules, and other related materials to support the solicitation project process.  The Task Force is excited about the forthcoming improvements and our ability to quickly deliver an improved product that meets the new Federal requirements.  

AASHTOWare BrM Mobile Inspection powered by Mayvue 

Member Departments and Associate Members wishing to use the AASHTOWare Bridge Mobile Inspection powered by Mayvue can now license this application through AASHTO.

This application enables agencies to conduct inspections via Android and Apple phone or tablet devices remotely. It works offline and online to allow inspectors to collect inspection information without an internet connection. Please reach out to Mayvue or the AASHTOWare BrM project manager for more information or to request a demonstration for your agency.

Reminder – BrM Training Videos Available

The Task Force authorized the creation of numerous BrM training videos focused on frequently asked questions and available functionalities/modules added to the software. These videos contain useful information for all levels of users and are readily available on the BrM YouTube channel located here. Be sure to subscribe and click the bell icon to receive notifications whenever a video is released. Requests for additional topics to be considered for video instruction should be submitted to BrM@mayvue.com. Your input is always appreciated.

2022 BrMUG – Save the Date

Please save the date for the 2022 Bridge Management User Group Meeting (BrMUG) which will be held September 13 – 14, 2022. The meeting is planned to be in person in Minneapolis, MN. We are looking forward to seeing everyone’s faces again in September!

Sincerely,
The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force

November 2021

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force product update is provided to keep all AASHTOWare Bridge Management (BrM) Software users apprised of recent activity related to the development of the software. The Task Force is committed to providing quarterly updates to help improve communication between the Task Force and those interested in the product.

BrM Version 6.6 Release Update

Mayvue completed the 100% BrM 6.6 release demonstration to the Testing TAG in early November. This demonstration focused on the major enhancements coming in version 6.6 including: 

• Funding by Project Allocation
• Critical Findings/Request for Action Module
• User Certification Module
• Addressed Accrued Technical Debt
• Multimedia Enhancements (various)
• Excel Projects Upload Enhancement 
• BrM Mapping Widget

The Testing TAG is in the process of testing the 6.6 release, including full installation testing. However, the planned path to release version 6.6 to the user community has been changed since the last Product Update. Version 6.6 was originally scheduled to be released in January 2022; however, in October 2021, the Task Force requested a modification to the BrM 6.6 contract with Mayvue to incorporate a Signs Module into the BrM software. This enhancement is possible thanks to the generosity of the following agencies who contributed service units to fund the Signs module design and development. 

• Alabama DOT
• Arizona DOT
• California DOT
• Delaware DOT
• Idaho TD
• Rhode Island DOT

The new release date for version 6.6 is tentatively scheduled for Spring 2022. 

The addition of the Signs Module provides a means for agencies to begin inspecting and managing their signs within BrM. Additional information related to the Signs Module is provided in the subsequent article.

The version 6.6 testing plan has been modified to accommodate this late addition. Mayvue will conduct an additional BrM 6.6 release demonstration focused specifically on the Signs Module. At that point, all testing feedback for the original version 6.6 features (listed above) should be submitted and addressed by Mayvue. Following the Signs Module walk-through, the Testing TAG will complete another round of beta testing focused solely on the Signs Module addition before providing their release recommendation. If you have any questions about the Signs Module or the release plan for version 6.6, please reach out to the Task Force.

BrM Signs Module (Coming Soon)

Similar to the existing Tunnels module, the addition of the Signs Module is a component of the evolution of BrM to provide support for additional agency assets. The Signs Module will leverage many of the existing tools and features already built into BrM and will allow agencies to configure certain parts of the module to inventory and inspect signs (including elements) in accordance with their agency’s policies. Signs Module functionality included in the BrM version 6.6 release includes:

• View a list of signs
• Building and generating sign reports
• Creating, viewing, and editing Sign elements
• Creating, viewing, and editing Sign inventory
• Creating, viewing, and editing Sign inspections
• Creating, viewing, and editing Sign element inspections
• Creating, viewing, and editing Sign panels
• Uploading, viewing, and editing Sign multimedia
• Creating, viewing, and editing Sign work candidates
• Setting and updating Sign element longitude and latitude

This introductory version of the BrM Signs Module will provide agencies with the initial foundation to inventory, inspect, and manage signs in a manner similar to their tunnels and/or bridge assets. It is important to note that the Michigan Department of Transportation is currently working on supplemental enhancements that, once incorporated, will significantly improve the base Signs Module being added in version 6.6. 

NBIS/SNBI Compliance Solicitation Brochure

A digital brochure that highlights the forthcoming NBIS/SNBI solicitation and the importance of contributions to ensure the sustainability of the AASHTOWare Bridge Management software is planned to be distributed to member agencies in the coming weeks. This brochure will also provide additional pertinent information such as the expected contribution amount, elements of the work plan to enhance the software and benefits for contributing agencies.

The NBIS/SNBI solicitation brochure is intended to inform AASHTOWare Bridge Management end-users, but also includes important information for other decision-makers and management within the agencies.

Please keep an eye out for this brochure, and in the meantime, attention to any questions regarding the solicitation or commitments to Ryan Fragapane (AASHTOWare Bridge Management Project Manager).

2021 BrM User Group Meeting (BrMUG) Recap

The Task Force would like to thank all who participated in the 2021 Virtual BrMUG meeting. While virtual for the second straight year, the event was a success with excellent user participation. 

The Task Force would like to remind everyone that video recordings of the BrMUG and speaker PowerPoint presentations are available on the AASHTOWare Bridge website here. 

The Task Force would also like to remind agencies that feedback is always welcomed. Agencies do not need to wait until next year’s BrMUG/annual survey.

Finally, the BrMUG officers will distribute the results of this years’ BrM enhancement voting in the coming weeks, so all participants can see where their votes landed in terms of the user-voted enhancements. 

2022 BrMUG – Save the Date

Please save the date for the 2022 Bridge Management User Group Meeting (BrMUG) which will be held September 13 – 14, 2022. The meeting is planned to be in person in Minneapolis, MN.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone’s faces again in 2022!

AASHTOWare BrM Mobile Inspection powered by Mayvue 

Earlier this year, AASHTO signed a master licensing agreement with Mayvue for the inclusion of a BrM Mobile Inspection application to be included in the annual AASHTOWare catalog. AASHTO Member Departments and Associate Members wishing to use the AASHTOWare Bridge Mobile Inspection powered by Mayvue can now license this application through AASHTO.

This application enables agencies to conduct inspections via Android and Apple phone or tablet devices remotely. It works offline and online to allow inspectors to collect inspection information without an internet connection. Please reach out to Mayvue or the AASHTOWare BrM project manager for more information.

BrM Version 6.7 Planning

The Task Force is currently working with Mayvue to define the scope of release version 6.7. There is no shortage of options when it comes to new enhancements thanks to the BrMUG voting and South Carolina DOT’s and Michigan DOT’s donated enhancements. The Task Force plans to evaluate all options and select enhancements that add the most value to the software. The Task Force is targeting a work plan draft in January 2022. This will then become the work plan from which Mayvue will develop the next version of the software. The Task Force will provide an update of the planned enhancements for version 6.7 with the next AASHTOWare Bridge Management product update.

As always, if you would like to champion one of the BrMUG voted priorities, the Task Force would greatly appreciate your assistance. Please reach out to Mayvue, the Task Force, and/or the AASHTOWare Bridge Project Manager for more information.

Reminder – BrM Training Videos Available

The Task Force authorized the creation of numerous BrM training videos focused on frequently asked questions and available functionalities/modules added to the software. These videos contain useful information for all levels of users and are readily available on the BrM YouTube channel located here. Be sure to subscribe and click the bell icon to receive notifications whenever a video is released. Requests for additional topics to be considered for video instruction should be submitted to BrM@mayvue.com. Your input is always appreciated.

Sincerely,
The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force is pleased to announce the release of AASHTOWare Bridge Management (BrM) version 6.5. The primary focus of this release is to enhance the functionality of the Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) module. Agencies can now create bridge-level life cycle plans that fit their specific practices and policies for any given bridge. This functionality is useful whether a user is programming work that is scheduled to be done in the short term (5 years or less), or is developing a long-term program (e.g. 10, 15, 20, 50 years, etc.).

What’s New in BrM 6.5

• Implemented a new LCCA Optimization module to generate optimal Life Cycle Plans. The module analyzes different alternatives and recursively selects the alternatives with the least life cycle costs.
• The new LCCA recursive module leverages the current Network Policies and LCCA Policies pages, however, the policies are used in a new context. The Network Policies are used to generate the alternatives that the module will optimize, and the LCCA Policies are used to prevent the bridge from falling below a certain threshold.
• The new algorithm generates Life Cycle Plans from alternative actions (defined by Network Policies), condition-based actions (defined by LCCA Policies), and manually added actions (defined by users selecting from Actions, Projects, Network Policies, or Work Candidates).
• Users can now visually compare up to three Plans via Performance, Timing, and Life Cycle Cost charts.
• Added optimization queues to the Programs > Program Planning and Analysis > LCCA tasks. Users can now easily queue optimizations and observe which optimization is currently running.
• Added an option to the optimizer to allow you to recalculate the structure weight for each year of the optimization period.
• Added Utility without LCC type to rule builder in Admin > Modeling Config > Network Policies and Admin > Modeling Config > LCCA Policy Rules tasks.
• Added Action User Cost as an associated benefit groups option for actions on the Admin > Modeling Config > Actions Defs task.
• Added a User Cost section to the Projects > Create/Edit Projects tasks.
• Added UserCost context and example formulas to the Admin > Modeling Config > Advanced Formulas task.
• Added NBI Element Conversions report that shows how the conversion profiles are interacting with the inspection data.
• Added the Time in State report that shows how long bridges have been in their rating condition.
• Various bug fixes and improvements (full list supplied with the release notes).

The changes included in the latest release, AASHTOWare BrM 6.5, are also highlighted in this release video:

Download BrM 6.5 Now

AASHTOWare BrM 6.5 and supporting documentation are now available for download from ShareFile:
https://mayvue.sharefile.com/d-s52bfb431bd3347698410abea943578c9

Please make sure to read the Release Notes prior to installing BrM 6.5. Email brm@mayvue.com with any questions or concerns, or if any issues during the installation process.

Sincerely,
The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force

May 2021

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force product update is provided to keep all AASHTOWare Bridge Management (BrM) Software users apprised of recent activity related to the software development. The Task Force is committed to providing quarterly updates to improve communication between the Task Force and those interested in the product.

BrM 6.4 Released

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force is pleased to announce the release of BrM version 6.4. This release was made available to the user community on January 8, 2021. Here is the release video that summarizes the new enhancements included in the release. Below are some of the key highlights:

• Redesigned Multimedia Module
  • Updated the Inspection > Multimedia task to use the redesigned Multimedia module.
  • Added the Admin > Security > Multimedia task to manage the role-based permission for multimedia contexts and subfolders.
  • Added the Admin > General Config > Multimedia task to configure various settings for the Multimedia module.
  • Added a Multimedia widget that can be added to any new or existing task from the Visual Forms Editor.
• Updated the Program Optimizer to allow for multi-year, manually funded (funding allocated) projects.
• Updated the Programs > Assign Projects task to allow for the assignment of projects to specific program scenarios.
• Added the ability to enable/disable the optimizer log files, control the number of alternative logs maintained in the system, and set the number of rows of data permitted in each alternative log.
• Added the ability to download optimizer log files, including the web output log and the alternative log, on the Programs > Program Planning task.
• Added a Weighted option to the Percent Condition State field for the Element Condition State action type on the Admin > Modeling Config > Network Policies task.
• Added the Bridges > Mapping > Enhanced Mapping task that allows you to view the surrounding bridges on a map within a particular area of the selected bridge. You can also draw your own area from which to view surrounding bridges.
• Various bug fixes and improvements (full list supplied with the release announcement).

Note: There are some new considerations when adding multimedia file links to custom Crystal Reports. Please see the attached document for more details about what’s changed: Adding Multimedia to Custom Reports in 6.4.pdf

As always, please contact Mayvue by emailing BrM@mayvue.com with questions, installation support, or to report issues.

BrM 6.4.1 Patch Release

Shortly after the release of version 6.4, the Task Force authorized Mayvue to complete a patch release to address a potential security vulnerability discovered in one of the application frameworks used to build BrM. Upon identification, Mayvue contacted all agencies that downloaded version 6.4 to explain the situation and suggested delaying their 6.4 implementations until the patch release was made available. 

The 6.4.1 patch was released to the user community on February 4, 2021. While this patch is optional and may not impact your agency, it is Mayvue’s recommendation for agencies to install this version when upgrading their BrM instance. 

Agencies interested in upgrading to version 6.4.1 can find the installation files, release notes/instructions, and software documentation here. Please reach out to Mayvue if you have any questions.

BrM 6.5 – Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) Update

Mayvue hit the 100% development completion milestone at the end of March 2021 and held a demonstration of the functionalities for the Beta Testing TAG, Optimizer TAG, Database TAG, and Task Force on April 22, 2021. The Beta Testing TAG is continuing to test the LCCA functionality to ensure all components of the enhancement are functioning as expected, on both the Mayvue hosted site and in their local environments. 

Due to the large number of enhancements included in the LCCA project, and the long-awaited nature of this release by many agencies, the Task Force has decided to release the LCCA enhancements to the BrM community in the summer of 2021 as BrM 6.5. This release will also include maintenance fixes that Mayvue is able to include through the end of beta testing. The Task Force will continue to update the user community on the delivery of the LCCA enhancements as development and testing progresses.

BrM 6.6 Work Plan

The Task Force finalized the BrM 6.6 work plan during their April Task Force meeting. The high-level enhancements included in the scope of this project (planned for delivery in early calendar year 2022) are listed below:

• Sub-divide Funding by Project Category (#2 user voted priority)
• Critical Findings / Request for Action Module
• User Certification Module
• Analytical Tools
  • STIP Project Import Tool
  • Time in State Report (for NBI items)
  • NBI Conversion Report   

The BrM 6.6 Project work plan was approved by the Standing Committee on AASHTOWare (SCOA) on May 3, 2021 and the contract is expected to be executed in early May. 

The Task Force is also evaluating the possibility of including a Signs Module enhancement and/or the Suppression Rule enhancement (formerly known as the Optimizer Look Ahead rule) in the 6.6 release via a work plan/contract modification in June 2021. The inclusion of these enhancements is dependent on funding availability and individual state funding contributions / service unit donations to support the development activities. 

Please reach out to the Task Force or Mayvue with any questions related to the BrM 6.6 work plan.

Update – Proposed Changes to the National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) as well as the new Specifications for the National Bridge Inventory (SNBI)

The Task Force continues to monitor the proposed changes to the NBIS and SNBI. A date has not yet been established for the official release of these proposed changes; however, the Task Force remains vigilant to ensure we are ready to respond without delay. We have previously communicated that a project solicitation will be issued to secure sufficient funding to ensure BrM’s compliance with the new regulations. Please note, the Task Force has prioritized maintaining BrM’s compliance with national standards as its highest objective for the future. We will continue to monitor the timing of the release and continue to make you aware as we learn new information.

We ask that all agencies strongly consider supporting this important undertaking through participation in the upcoming project solicitation. 

When/How Can AASHTO Accept Funding Commitments?

Based on feedback received from several AASHTO Member Agencies interested in participating in the upcoming project solicitation, we have learned that some agencies have “earmarked” funding in their current fiscal year budgets to commit funding towards the NBIS/SNBI BrM project.  

The solicitation commitment process cannot commence until the work plan is finalized and the work plan cannot be finalized until the requirements have been published. Therefore, for those agencies interested in committing funding to this important initiative prior to the publication of the NBIS/SNBI changes and issuance of the project solicitation, an alternate mechanism has been established to commit funding for the project.

Funding for the NBIS/SNBI BrM project can be committed to AASHTO via the FY2022 Member Software Request Form: Additional Enhancement Funding.  All funding contributed in this manner will be reserved to support the project solicitation. Questions about the project solicitation process should be directed to Judy Tarwater. 

Reminder – BrM Training Videos Available

The Task Force authorized the creation of numerous BrM training videos focused on frequently asked questions and available functionalities/modules added to the software. These videos contain useful information for all levels of users and are readily available on the BrM YouTube channel located here. Be sure to subscribe and click the bell icon to receive notifications whenever a video is released. Requests for additional topics to be considered for video instruction should be submitted to BrM@mayvue.com. Your input is always appreciated.

The 2021 BrMUG Meeting is Going Virtual (Again)!

Based on responses to the recent BrM user community agenda planning survey, it was determined that agency travel approval for a majority of the BrM user community will not be supported for the 2021 BrMUG meeting scheduled for this September. Please save the date for the 2021 VIRTUAL Bridge Management User Group Meeting (BrMUG) which will be held September 14 – 16, 2021. 

The User Group Officers are working hard on agenda development, using input received from their recent survey. Registration for the event will not be opened until the agenda is in final form. Please watch for 2021 VIRTUAL BrMUG meeting emails for additional information.

Sincerely,
The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force

The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force is pleased to announce the release of AASHTOWare Bridge Management version 6.4. As you are aware, with the move to BrM 6, BrM has become ‘patchable’.  The goal of patches is to ultimately ease the upgrade process. The patch files have been posted to ShareFile.  Please email brm@mayvue.com with any questions or concerns, or if any issues during the patch process. 

Please make sure to read the Install Notes below and the release notes prior to installing BrM 6.4.

What’s New in BrM 6.4 

• Redesigned the Multimedia Module.
  • Updated the Inspection > Multimedia task to use the redesigned Multimedia module.
  • Added the Admin > Security > Multimedia task to manage the role-based permission for multimedia contexts and subfolders.
  • Added the Admin > General Config > Multimedia task to configure various settings for the Multimedia module.
  • Added a Multimedia widget that can be added to any new or existing task from the Visual Forms Editor.
• Updated the Program Optimizer to allow for multi-year, manually funded (funding allocated) projects.
• Updated the Programs > Assign Projects task to allow for the assignment of projects to specific program scenarios.
• Added the ability to enable/disable the optimizer log files, control the number of alternative logs maintained in the system, and set the number of rows of data permitted in each alternative log.
• Added the ability to download optimizer log files, including the web output log and the alternative log, on the Programs > Program Planning task.
• Added a Weighted option to the Percent Condition State field for the Element Condition State action type on the Admin > Modeling Config > Network Policies task.
• Added the Bridges > Mapping > Enhanced Mapping task that allows you to view the surrounding bridges on a map within a particular area of the selected bridge. You can also draw your own area from which to view surrounding bridges.
• Various bug fixes and improvements (see the release notes for a full list).

BrM 6.4 is now available for download at the link below:
https://mayvue.sharefile.com/home/shared/fobda07d-fe41-409b-833c-55b94d76d0f2

BrM 6.4 Install Notes

• If you do not have access to the download folder, please reach out to brm@mayvue.com.
• The install is designed to upgrade any version of BrM 6. You will need to have BrM 6.0 or later installed to run this update.
• There is only one 6.4 install, it will ask you which version you wish to update. Please make sure you select the correct install for your environment.
• The scripts are included with the install but also posted on the ShareFile site. 
• These are the same scripts. You do not need to download them from ShareFile if you download the installs.
  • The scripts are located in the install directory atOracle  – “~\DB\Oracle\Database Script”
  • SQL Server  – “~\DB\Microsoft SQL Server\Database Scripts”
• Please enter any questions or issues in Jira or send an email to brm@mayvue.com.

Note: There are some new considerations when adding multimedia file links to custom Crystal Reports. Please see the attached document for more details about what’s changed: Adding Multimedia to Custom Reports in 6.4.pdf

BrM 6.4 Documentation

The full documentation is posted to ShareFile.  Also, a release video is available below which highlights the changes made to version 6.4. 

Sincerely,
The AASHTOWare Bridge Task Force