An Investigation of the Design and Performance of Traffic Control Devices

Abstract

This paper reports on a study (performed for the United States Bureau of Public Roads) involving a comparative analysis of the design e lements of the major highway sign systems of the world. Shape, color, symbols, pictographs, and verbal messages were studied through design exercises, laboratory investigations, and road tests. The study~carried out by a multi-disciplinary team of psychologists, engineers, and graphic designers~also included extensive reviews of existing research on highway signs, traffic control devices, and the design of signs. The introduction examines the history of highway sign development and regulation as well as a discussion of an automobile driver's processing of information.