The domestic waterways communication system: A case study in leveraged R&D

This report discusses the role of the Maritime Administration (MARAD) in the development of modern automated marine communication for the domestic waterways of the United States. The development of the Domestic Waterways Communication System from concept to fruition under MARAD leadership is discussed in the historical and geographical context of the two separate regions served, the Great Lakes and the navigable western rivers. The progress of the communication system to date is presented together with projections of the nature network. The Leverage Factor is developed to assess the efficacy of MARAD participation in this project and is evaluated for both the Great Lakes and Inland Waterways subsystems. The application of this concept as a generally useful means of selecting projects for future Federal participation is discussed.