Exploring information needed in maintenance backlog-related decision-making in the Finnish road network

Purpose Road maintenance backlog (MB) is increasing rapidly in many countries, partly as a result of the changing climate conditions, increasing traffic volumes and insufficient funding for maintenance. This study aims to identify the type of information used and needed when making decisions concerning the MB of the road network. Design/methodology/approach This qualitative study involved 21 semi-structured interviews with experts in Finland, including road authorities (7), politicians (3), maintenance specialists (4) and business representatives (7). Participants were selected using purposive sampling based on criteria such as professional designation, knowledge and experience in the field. The data were analyzed using content analysis. Findings At the operational level, most information pertains to the technical condition of the road network. At higher decision-making levels, MB is used more as a monetary value and a basis for budgeting. More information is required on the impact of changes in road conditions in terms of safety, the social economy, companies’ operational capabilities, logistics and CO2 emissions. These impacts need to be quantified in monetary terms for society as a whole. Research limitations/implications This research covers the years 2018–2022. Although Finland served as the target country for this study, we believe that the results, presented at the political decision-making level, can be adopted and modified for countries with similar governmental decision principles and where further justifications for funding decisions are required. Additionally, insights from the asset owner perspective can assist road authorities in developed countries, while operational-level findings can be applied to other developed countries with similar geographical characteristics. The results of this study were collected from an industrialized country for the years 2018–2022. Consequently, the applicability of these findings to different time periods and countries may be limited. Practical implications With the help of these findings, road authorities will be able to make decisions in a more data-driven way, which has long-term economic implications. Originality/value The results of this study will provide information that can be utilized by decision-makers at various levels. The research has scientific value, and in addition, the results presented in the study can lead to changes in practical applications in the field, which in turn have societal and economic impact.