The practice is very widespread, reflecting the perceived value of on-street displays and the public's desire for such information. As a result, a significant body of experience is being developed that can be used to advance the state of the practice. Bus stop signs have become instruments providing higher levels of information and are effectively used by most transit agencies. Other information, such as service type, service day, and span of service information, not subject to frequent revision, is being used to significantly increase the distribution of service information at bus stops. A limited number of research studies have concluded that on-street information programs have a return on investment.
Information displays vary widely and often are custom designed for specific applications.
This reflects the needs and differences among transit systems and even among individual bus stops on the same system. The ability to custom design displays is a positive feature, as long as program costs are not increased, and users are not confused by varied formats and presentation methods. On-street displays are considered one element of a comprehensive transit user information system. Continuity of design should include the other elements of the information system as well as on-street displays. Sufficient knowledge appears to exist regarding the type of information that is most useful to transit users.