You’ve seen them on the side of the road — flashing orange letters telling you to slow down, take a detour, or expect delays. Variable Message Signs (VMS boards) are everywhere, but behind every message is a decision that impacts real people.
At East Coast Traffic Control, we treat VMS boards as more than just flashing signs. They’re a vital communication tool that can inform, redirect, and calm road users in real time. When used well, they help reduce confusion, prevent complaints, and keep everyone — drivers, pedestrians and workers — safe.
Here’s why good messaging matters, and how we make sure ours hits the mark.
VMS boards are your first chance to get it right
A VMS board is often the first thing a driver sees before they encounter roadworks. That first message can set the tone — or create frustration.
Done well, it gives drivers clear notice of what’s ahead: “ROADWORK AHEAD – EXPECT DELAYS” or “DETOUR VIA SMITH ST – FOLLOW SIGNS”. Short, direct and helpful.
If the message is vague, unclear or poorly timed, you’ve already lost their trust before they even reach the work zone.
Timing is everything
There’s no point telling people about a detour at the detour. VMS boards should give people time to adjust — slow down, choose a new route, or prepare for lane changes.
We position our VMS trailers well in advance of the worksite or closure. If a detour starts on Tuesday, our message boards go up days earlier. That gives commuters, freight drivers and locals a heads-up before they’re forced to make a snap decision.
It also helps reduce last-minute lane weaving, aggressive driving or unnecessary U-turns — all of which improve safety on the ground.
Plain language wins every time
We’ve all seen VMS messages that feel like puzzles. Too many acronyms, odd line breaks, or unclear directions make things worse.
Good VMS messaging follows three key rules:
- Keep it short – Stick to 2–3 lines, 8–10 characters per line
- Make it clear – Use everyday words. “EXPECT DELAYS” is better than “TRAFFIC DISRUPTION ANTICIPATED”
- Be accurate – Don’t say “DETOUR AHEAD” if the detour isn’t until 5km down the road
Our team reviews and signs off on every message before it goes live. We tailor the language to suit the road users — school zones, tradie traffic, tourists or truck routes.
Common mistakes we avoid
There are a few VMS sins we see all too often (though not from us):
- Last-minute messages that leave drivers no time to respond
- Misspelled words or awkward abbreviations
- Contradictory instructions between the VMS and roadside signage
- Blank boards with no message at all during live works
- Messages left up after works are completed
Each of these creates confusion and undermines trust. We take extra care to ensure every VMS board is updated, relevant and aligned with on-site conditions.
We don’t set and forget
VMS boards can be updated remotely — and we use that flexibility. If weather changes, job schedules shift, or local access needs to be clarified, our operations team can adjust the messaging in real time.
This is particularly helpful during multi-day projects, detours near schools, or weekend event setups where traffic conditions can change quickly.
They’re not just for roadworks
VMS trailers also play a key role in:
- Public event traffic control (markets, marathons, fan days)
- Weather-related alerts (flooding, road closures, storm warnings)
- Emergency services coordination
- Council announcements (bin collections, road reseals, parking changes)
We work with local councils and event organisers to create messages that are clear, helpful and community-friendly — without looking like an afterthought.
Part of a bigger picture
A good VMS board doesn’t operate in isolation. It’s part of a complete traffic management setup that includes detour signage, barriers, lighting and trained traffic controllers.
The message on the board sets expectations. The rest of the site has to deliver on that promise.
That’s why we plan messaging as part of the Traffic Management Plan (TMP), not as a last-minute add-on.
When messaging is right, everything flows better
The proof is in how drivers behave. With the right messaging in the right place, you see:
- Smoother merging
- Fewer brake checks
- Better detour compliance
- Less frustration
- Safer crews
When people know what to expect, they’re more cooperative and less likely to take risks.
FAQs
What is a VMS board used for?
VMS stands for Variable Message Sign. These are portable, programmable boards used to inform road users about upcoming roadworks, detours, events or hazards.
How far in advance should a VMS message be placed?
Ideally, several hundred metres before the change — or even a few days before major detours or closures. It depends on road speed, volume and site risk.
Can you change the message once it’s deployed?
Yes. Our boards are remotely managed so we can update the message instantly if conditions change.
What’s the most important part of a good VMS message?
Clarity. Keep it short, simple and accurate. Confused drivers are more likely to ignore the message altogether.
Do you supply VMS trailers for events or councils?
Yes. We work with both public and private clients across QLD and NSW for short and long-term deployments.
