To begin the Sample Adequacy step of the workflow, the user must generate a Table of Potential Samples (TOPS) data set using the Create TOPS interface before creating and managing samples in other interfaces. This tab primarily functions as a means to break down records and categorize them into Sample Panels/Stratums, which are defined by Volume Group, Functional System, and Urban Code. The user can open this essential interface from the Sample Adequacy tab.

Create TOPS

To Create a TOPS data set or sample table, the user can follow these steps:

1. Select the desired data table year in the "Create TOPS for Year" dropdown. After selecting a year, the "using Data" dropdown to its direct right will be populated with Data Tables related to that year.
2. Select the desired data table in the "using Data" dropdown.
3. Click the Create TOPS button.

The output data set will include all TOPS data items, including Functional System, Facility Type, Urban Code, AADT, and Through Lanes for all Federal-aid highways (classified as highways on the National highway System (NHS), and all other public roads not classified as local roads or rural minor collectors).