An increasing number of jurisdictions are seeking new ways to manage the competing needs of different modes on increasingly congested road networks. Network Operations Planning (NOP) is becoming ‘best practice’ in managing multi-modal transport networks. This paper presents a critical review of the implementation of SmartRoads, an NOP framework developed by VicRoads. The aim of the research is to gain an understanding of the key factors that constrained and facilitated the implementation of SmartRoads. A theoretical framework is developed based on the integration of the theories of institutional legitimacy, organisational champion and stakeholder engagement. The research utilised interviews with both internal and external stakeholder to identify key benefits, constraints and facilitators. The findings of the analysis suggest that the successful implementation of such frameworks requires legitimacy at the institutional, organizational and external stakeholder levels, which is facilitated by government endorsement, championing and stakeholder engagement, respectively.

The Transport Integration Act mandates that VicRoads give consideration to all factors when considering changes to the road network, including priorities for various modes and considering how those changes impact places. The development and implementation of the SmartRoads framework has helped VicRoads to deliver its objectives to the Victorian government, such as when making changes to the road traffic network.

Despite the identified constraints to the implementation of SmartRoads, if the mentioned solutions and others that are planned for the future are implemented, then SmartRoads can become an efficient and effective framework for the planning and management of the road traffic network not only in Victoria, but also in other Australian states and overseas.

Since few countries employ a formal multimodal road management framework, there is potential for SmartRoads to be implemented in various jurisdictions around Australasia and around the world if the identified constraints are reduced or resolved, as discussed.