What is the Model Service Bureau
The Model Service Bureau is a transport modelling initiative kick-started by the National Transport Authority’s Transport Modelling Division.
The intended beneficiaries of the Model Service Bureau are local authorities, transport agencies, government departments, and transport planning consultancies.
Objectives of the Model Service Bureau
It has been set up with the following aims:
• Streamline model development.
• Improve efficiency and coordination in transport modelling for Irish projects.
• Support the improvement of transport model quality over time.
• Ensure consistency and quality in transport model calibration and validation.
Facilitate knowledge sharing and coordination
The Model Service Bureau will eliminate duplication of model development by allowing local authorities to identify existing models on the NTA’s website. The Bureau will also facilitate knowledge sharing and coordination among transport modelling professionals in Ireland. Over time, it is hoped that this will lead to enhanced skills and innovation in the sector.
Core Features
The Bureau is developing two core products/features:
- An NTA-controlled inventory of Local Area Models, microsimulation models, and junction models developed for local authority (and other public body) projects across the Republic of Ireland; and
- A library of guidance based on best practice to assist in the development, calibration, and validation of such models – coming in early 2026.