Challenges for implementing asset management systems in Mexico

A discussion of the main challenges for implementing asset management systems in Mexico is presented in this paper together with some proposals to address those challenges. First, the national road network is described broadly in order to put the discussion in context. Next, the prevalence of the conception of a management system as a computer program and the lack of interest in developing management systems for asset classes other than pavement are emphasised. Later in the document, actions are identified to develop a national culture of asset management that helps overcoming the existing conceptual limitations. The structure of the entity responsible for the operation of the federal road network is described in section 3 showing the obstacles that such an organisational arrangement implies for the application of asset management and thus proposing an alternative structure. In the final part, the paper discusses further limitations related to standards, technology use and training of human resources, and point out possible contributions of the Mexican Transport Institute to meet the challenges identified.