Innovation in Infrastructure Management

Historically, the Government of Canada has been involved in infrastructure for a long time, through its early involvement in the development of canals, a national railway system, telegraphic lines, and the national highway system to name some examples.

Only recently have we had a dedicated department, in Infrastructure Canada, which is focused on building a stronger Canada, and bringing together infrastructure ideas and professionals to benefit the nation.

Providing a federal focus point for infrastructure activity has provided the framework to develop innovative tools, approaches, research and collaborations in support of infrastructure issues.

An important aspect of Infrastructure Canada's mandate is the enhancement of the national infrastructure knowledge base and the creation of better operations management and investment decision making tools.

The Shared Information Management System for Infrastructure (SIMSI)

Award winning innovation in infrastructure program management

Originally developed to facilitate the management of shared cost projects between the three orders of government under the Infrastructure Canada Program, SIMSI is an on-line information management tool that now provides the backbone technology for the e-management of Canada's long-term infrastructure development.

The innovative web-based system conforms to the Government On-Line commitment, and meets the higher standards of openness and transparency, due diligence and reporting demanded by Canadians. The system enables provinces, territories and municipalities to apply on-line for project funding, monitor project status and access benefits and payment information throughout the life of a project. It also allows Canadians to have access to announced projects via the Infrastructure Canada web site.

The National Guide to Sustainable Municipal Infrastructure

A unique Canadian information resource for project decision makers

Infrastructure Canada worked in cooperation with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the National Research Council to produce a National Guide to Sustainable Municipal Infrastructure. This on-line information resource creates a compendium of technical best practices for decision making and investment planning and for the construction, maintenance and repair of municipal infrastructure systems. The guide facilitates more informed operating practices and strategic investment decision-making for infrastructure projects at every level of government. ( www.infraguide.ca)