Effective Message Design for Dynamic Message Signs

This report contains the findings of research on relevant issues for effective design and display of dynamic message sign (DMS) messages. Findings resulting from visits and interviews with staff at five Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) traffic management centers relative to display of DMS messages are presented. The development and documentation of message design decision logic flow charts are also presented. Details of the experimental design and findings of focus group and human factors laboratory studies address many DMS message design issues including incidents, roadwork, AMBER alerts, major catastrophes, planned special events, and inclement weather and environmental conditions. Discussion of the issues and the contents of the Dynamic Message Sign Message Design and Display Manual that was developed as part of this project are also presented.