Variable message signs : will they continue to play a major role in a competitive environment of emerging private ITS systems? : a "realistic vision".

Variable message signs systems cover a great part of the motorway network in the Federal Republic of Germany. All major trouble spots are equipped with such systems which allow to respond quickly and adequately in case of traffic problems or unfavourable environmental conditions. The amount expended for installation and operation of these systems by authorities is assessed to be next to 1 billion DM. In the environment of new emerging private ITS systems, which from their functionality often seem to compete with traditional variable message signs systems, their respective roles are being reconsidered. The question which needs to be answered is if these new ITS systems can replace variable message sign systems. (A*)