Traffic & Transport
Traffic Modelling and Microsimulation
Traffic modelling and microsimulation predict how intersections and networks will perform — from a single intersection in SIDRA to a whole corridor in microsimulation.
What it is
Traffic modelling uses specialist software to predict how a road, intersection or network will perform under given traffic conditions — today or in a future scenario. Intersection modelling (commonly in SIDRA) analyses capacity, delay and queuing at individual intersections; microsimulation (in packages such as Aimsun, Vissim or similar) models the dynamic interaction of many vehicles across a corridor or network. Together they answer “will it work, and what happens if we change it?”
When you need it
You need it when a decision depends on how traffic will perform: assessing a development's intersection impacts, testing design options, evaluating a corridor or network change, checking future-year scenarios, or peer-reviewing someone else's model. Intersection modelling supports many TIAs; microsimulation is used for more complex, interacting networks.
Who requires it
Councils and state agencies, developers, other consultancies and infrastructure teams who need credible performance evidence for a decision, a submission or an approval.
What Arcvia assesses
The right modelling approach for the question (intersection analysis vs microsimulation); model build and calibration to observed data; capacity, delay, queuing and level-of-service outcomes; scenario and sensitivity testing; and clear interpretation of what the results mean for the decision. We're candid about a model's assumptions and limitations.
What you receive
A modelling report with the results, the assumptions and calibration behind them, scenario comparisons where relevant, and a plain-language interpretation — plus the model itself where you need it. The emphasis is on results you (and an authority) can trust and understand.
Standards, guidelines & authorities
Modelling follows recognised practice and the relevant authority's modelling requirements and guidelines (including road-authority expectations for model calibration and reporting), using industry-standard software. We confirm the required approach, software and guidelines at scoping.
Information we need for your fee proposal
The question you need answered; the intersection(s), corridor or network; available traffic data (or whether surveys are needed); the scenarios of interest; any authority modelling requirement; and your timeframe.
Our process
- Scoping — confirm the modelling approach and requirements.
- Fee proposal — scope and fee in writing.
- Data & build — assemble data, build and calibrate the model.
- Analysis — run and test the scenarios.
- Report — results, interpretation and the model, with support for authority review.
Frequently asked questions
Intersection modelling (SIDRA) is usually right for analysing one or a few intersections in isolation. Microsimulation is warranted when intersections interact closely, queues spill between them, or you need to see how a whole corridor or network behaves dynamically — it's more involved, so it's used where the added realism genuinely changes the answer. We advise which your question needs.
Level of service is a graded measure (typically A to F) of how well an intersection or road operates — based on delay and congestion. It's a common, quick way to communicate performance, and modelling produces it, but we always explain what sits behind the letter grade rather than leaving it as a label.
Yes. Model peer review — checking assumptions, calibration, coding and conclusions — is part of our data and advisory work, and something councils and agencies often need. We give a clear, evidence-based assessment.
A model is a calibrated estimate, not a certainty — its value depends on good data, sound assumptions and honest calibration. We calibrate to observed conditions where we can, test sensitivities, and are explicit about assumptions and limitations, so you can rely on the results appropriately.
Related services
- Traffic and Parking Data CollectionTraffic and parking data collection gathers the counts and surveys — turning movements, volumes, parking occupancy — that reliable transport analysis depends on.
- Traffic Impact Assessments (TIA)A traffic impact assessment is an engineering report that shows how a proposed development will affect the surrounding road network — and what, if anything, is needed to make it work safely.
- Transport Planning and AdvisoryStrategic transport advice — from early feasibility and options to policy input and expert review — that helps clients and authorities make sound, defensible decisions.
- Engineering SecondmentsWe provide experienced traffic and transport engineers to work within your team — filling a capability or capacity gap for a defined period.
Sectors & locations
Servicing Victoria and Queensland.
Representative work
Have a project that needs a clear way forward?
Tell us what you need to understand and we'll set out the modelling scope and fee in writing.