A major shortcoming of many travel demand models is the lack of attention and effort placed on the validation phase of model development. Validation involves testing the model's predictive capabilities. Travel models need to be able to replicate observed conditions within reason before being used to produce future-year forecasts. As metropolitan areas continue to refine and improve the travel demand forecasting process, the credibility of the process with decision makers will depend largely on the ability of analysts to properly validate procedures and models used.