February 2022: AASHTOWare Bridge Management Product Update

February 18, 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