Developing a Smartphone App to Enhance Older Driver Safety
ID: 693JJ925RQ000450Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

TRANSPORTATION, DEPARTMENT OFNATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION693JJ9 NHTSA OFFICE OF ACQUISTIONWASHINGTON, DC, 20590, USA

NAICS

Research and Development in the Social Sciences and Humanities (541720)

PSC

TRANSPORTATION R&D SERVICES; SURFACE TRANSPORTATION, PUBLIC TRANSIT, AND RAIL; APPLIED RESEARCH (AS12)
Timeline
    Description

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is seeking qualified small businesses to design, develop, and pilot test a smartphone application aimed at enhancing safety for older drivers. The app will focus on reducing cognitive workload by assisting older drivers in avoiding risky traffic situations and alerting them to changes in the driving environment, such as speed limit alterations and sharp curves. This initiative is part of NHTSA's broader mission to improve road safety and reduce traffic-related incidents among older adults. Interested firms must submit their Corporate Capability Statements to Michelle Shanahan at michelle.shanahan@dot.gov by the deadline of 10 calendar days from the notice publication, with the project expected to span 60 months and involve iterative design and testing processes.

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    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is soliciting proposals (Solicitation # 693JJ925R000450) for the design, development, and pilot testing of a smartphone application aimed at enhancing older driver safety. The app will reduce cognitive workload by assisting older drivers in avoiding risky situations and alerting them to environmental changes. The project requires the contractor to develop an app for iOS and Android, conduct wireframe and prototype testing with older drivers, and design a Field Operational Test (FOT) to assess the app's effectiveness. Key deliverables include the final app, a comprehensive final report, and all supporting documentation for the FOT, which will be executed under a separate contract. The project spans 60 months and involves iterative design, testing, and optimization processes, with a strong emphasis on user experience tailored for older adults.
    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) seeks proposals for developing a smartphone app aimed at enhancing safety for older drivers, specifically targeting users aged 65 and older. This initiative follows congressional interest in the effectiveness of applications like Road Coach, which previously assisted younger drivers. The app is designed to reduce cognitive workload by providing alerts about traffic changes and helping users navigate complex driving situations. Key project elements include designing and user-testing the app, conducting a pilot test, and developing a comprehensive Field Operational Test (FOT) to evaluate the app's impact on driving behavior and safety metrics. The contractor will be responsible for multiple deliverables, including a draft and final report detailing the app's development process and study outcomes, ensuring that all materials are tailored to the target demographic while adhering to ethical standards. This undertaking reflects a broader commitment to improving older driver safety through innovation in technology. The project timeline is set for approximately five years from the award date.
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