Network and Traffic Management (NTM) use systems and techniques to manage traffic behaviour on transport networks. Bottlenecks across air, rail, road and water can result in system-wide capacity constraints, traffic jams and increased pollutant emissions and environmental impacts.

The transition towards an advanced multi-modal transport system requires better coordinated and organised traffic flows to optimise the entire transport network. This involves devices to detect real traffic conditions, traffic information sharing, optimisation processes and the distribution of control actions via end-user devices.

Digital technologies and the emergence of the connected traveller can influence real-time demand by encouraging off-peak travel and use of alternative routes through intelligent applications and user information services. These integrated urban traffic management and mobility information systems contribute to optimising transport flows through cities and in rural regions.

The Strategic Transport Research and Innovation Agenda (STRIA) Roadmap for Network and Traffic Management Systems aims to develop an advanced multi-modal transport system by effectively optimising the entire transport network across new areas.