Resources and Field Technology for Sign Management System Implementation

State departments of transportation are adopting formal computer-based sign management systems to help manage large inventories of roadside sign assets. These systems identify signs that are deficient with respect to placement location, visibility, reflectivity, overall condition, and other criteria. A sign management system also facilitates the planning and execution of replacement activities by sign type, facing material, age, geographical area, and/or route designation. From a liability standpoint, the system permits the agency to demonstrate periodic inspection activities and document a prioritized replacement plan for defective signs. Ideally, the sign management system should be tied to a geographical information system (GIS) so signs with a given criteria can be superimposed on a roadway map. Placing a bar coded label on the signs facilitates sign distribution from central shop locations. Incorporating selected digital photographs into the computer system database permits management evaluation of unique conditions that can not be adequately described in the system file data. This paper will discuss the methodology used by the authors to plan and implement the pilot project and forecast the labor and equipment resources required for statewide implementation. The pilot project examined a number of alternatives for the utilization of GIS, bar code, digital photography, and database systems technology. The pilot project also examined alternative organizational structures and labor utilization strategies required for field inventory and inspection, computer data entry, and overall system utilization. Also, the paper will compare the very specific implementation recommendations contained in the authors research report to the implementation plan adopted by SCDOT. The rationale used by SCDOT for adopting the statewide system and allocating implementation resources will also be discussed.