Brief Encounter?

In this article the author describes the use of multiple languages for variable message signs (VMS) and provides a critique of certain uses of multilingual instructions. While bilingual signage is sometimes necessary, excessive visual information-bearing technologies can also impede performance. One program being developed for these purposes is that of the Mare Nostrum VMS (MN-VMS), which aims to harmonize various European language instructions using pictographic elements as well as a standard protocol for textual layout of VMS. One source the author mentions takes the use of multiple languages in VMS to be merely political, with politicians forcing the issue to cater to various language-speaking groups. The author notes that this could lead down a slippery slope, increasing the danger to drivers as more languages are added to VMS.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/35183091
• Authors:
  • Crawford, David
• Publication Date: 2007-5

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Illustrations; Photos;
• Pagination: pp 49-50
• Serial:
  • ITS International
  • Volume: 13
  • Issue Number: 3
  • Publisher: Route One Publishing Limited
  • ISSN: 1463-6344
  • Serial URL: http://www.itsinternational.com

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Driver information systems; Political factors; Safety; Traffic safety; Variable message signs
• Uncontrolled Terms: Multilingual communication
• Subject Areas: Highways; Planning and Forecasting; Safety and Human Factors; I72: Traffic and Transport Planning;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01055888
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
• Files: BTRIS, TRIS
• Created Date: Aug 28 2007 10:56AM