Variable Messaging Signs – Frequently Asked Questions

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Q- How are the VMS programmed?

A – The VMS are programmed remotely using our innovative WebStudio™ system which is a web based program which can be used on any Wi-Fi enabled Apple device or personal computer. You can pinpoint the different VMS units you have out on the road and change the display in an instant. Perfect if you need to relay important information to road users or event users quickly and efficiently.

Q – How long does it take to change the message on a VMS?

A – It’s almost instantaneous. Providing you have access to a computer or Wi-Fi enabled Apple device, you can change your displayed message in a matter of minutes.

Q – Can the VMS be tracked?

A – Yes all the VMS are fitted with a GPRS controller which can be tracked via WebStudio™.

Q – Can you upload a message to multiple VMS?

A – Yes. WebStudio™ allows you to group the VMS units together – no matter where they are located – to allow multiple uploads at one time.

Q – Can you upload messages to display at certain times?

A – Yes, the VMS can be scheduled on WebStudio™ to allow certain messages to appear at your requested times.

Q- Can the VMS be programmed on a smartphone?

A – Yes. The VMS can be programmed on any Wi-Fi enabled Apple smartphone or tablet via the Curbsite Lite app.

Q – Can the VMS display pictograms eg, speed roundels and traffic signs?

A – Yes. The VMS can display five different colours (amber, white, red, green and blue) and there is a wide range of pre-saved messages and signs commonly used within the motor industry which can be shared with customers.

Q – Are the VMS and Solar IPs secure when on site?

A – Yes. The VMS and Solar IPS are padlocked in all areas as standard to ensure security on site. They are GPRS enabled so we can see where they are at all times.

Q – Can the VMS be fitted with Radar?

A – Yes. The VMS can be fitted with Radar to enable speed triggered messages.

Q – Do the VMS and Solar IPs have batteries?

A – Yes. They come with solar powered batteries and the battery levels are monitored daily to ensure the products are working at all times.

Q – If I require assistance with one of the products, does MVIS offer an out of hours service?

A – Yes. MVIS offers a 24/7 service to customers. You can contact us by calling 01629 580570 and we guarantee a response within 4 hours.

If you have a question that hasn’t been answered, please don’t hesitate to get in touch on 01629 580 570 or at sales@m-vis.co.uk

 

Go Green with MVIS

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Here at MVIS, we’re keen to be as environmentally friendly as we can – and we’re not the only ones.

Many businesses are now initiating new processes to try and reduce their company’s carbon footprint. From park & ride systems, car sharing and recycling initiatives, there are many different ways to live a greener life, and whilst you may not expect traffic management equipment to fit within this ethos, you may be surprised at just how environmentally friendly MVIS’ portfolio is.

Reuse & Recycle

Because our range of variable message signs are portable, they can be re-positioned around your project’s location with ease. Not only is this quick and easy to do, it also negates the need for any large vehicular transportation needed to move the units over short distances.

Made in the UK

Because all of MVIS’ portfolio is manufactured by Bartco UK in the heart of the Peak District, it reduces the transportation time considerably, meaning there are no emission-heavy long-haul journeys from continent to continent to deliver the equipment.

Light Up

MVIS VMS units are solar powered, so they require no costly mains electricity. With a non-glare screen, you can be sure that they’re visible at all times too.

Over 20 UK Depots

With over 20 depots across the UK, you can rest assured that no matter where in the country you are, we have traffic management equipment nearby that can be with you in no time. This means that the transportation time from us to you is kept to a minimum and that your project doesn’t suffer from any unnecessary downtime.

Reliable

Because our VMS units are secure and tamper-proof, and will stand up to the most extreme weather conditions, you can trust MVIS to make sure your equipment doesn’t let you down. Should you require any assistance, MVIS also offers 24/7 support to all customers so we’re always on hand to help.

Call us on 01629 580570 if you would like to talk to us about how MVIS can help keep your project green…or red, white, blue or amber. MVIS’ versatile VMS offers five eye-catching colours to create a striking visual display.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MVIS’ Summer Schedule

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MVIS supplies VMS and other event management solutions to some of the largest events in the UK. With summer fast approaching, the team are readying themselves for a busy schedule of planned activity. Our portfolio of traffic and event management solutions are used widely for a number of different occasions as they are a safe, innovative and low-cost solution to help keep crowds stay well-informed and crucially, safe.

From country shows such as the Royal Welsh in July, music festivals such as the Radio One Big Weekender later this month, and large sports fixtures such as the FA Cup Final at Wembley, Team MVIS will be busy distributing equipment to these and many other well-attended events.

From VMS units which help impart important information to crowds and motorists, to the fully customisable Solar IP, and the robust CCTV which is designed to withstand a high level of physical abuse from high-spirited revellers, our products are reliable, safe and easy to operate, which makes them a preferred choice for event organisers up and down the country.

The summer schedule sees MVIS providing traffic and event management solutions all over the country, so it is imperative that we deliver them on time. This not only ensures that the project’s timeline stays on track, it also means that we leave our customers feeling satisfied with both our products and our service.

To help with this, MVIS operates from two locations – Bow in London, and Matlock in the Peak District – and has 21 depots scattered across the UK and Ireland to make sure that we are able to meet your needs regardless of what it is you’re looking to hire, and where in the UK you are.

Our ever-growing portfolio is in stock and ready to be dispatched, so even if you’re in the furthest corner of the UK, you can rest assured that by choosing MVIS, you are guaranteed a speedy and reliable service. For more details, contact us on 01629 580 570 or by emailing sales@m-vis.co.uk

MVIS: The SMART choice for Event Managers

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As an Event Manager, you have a lot on your plate. From the initial development right up to delivery, there are a lot of details to consider and all whilst keeping to strict timelines and maintaining great relationships with staff and suppliers. It all contributes towards ensuring everything is in place, at the right time – and don’t forget making sure that it all comes in under budget too! We know it’s hard work, which is why choosing MVIS as your official supplier of event equipment to help keep your crowds safe and well informed is a SMART choice.

SAFETY: Our great range of variable message signs make a big impact, and are a fast, efficient way to keep crowds well informed and most of all, safe. Available in a variety of sizes from the 600mm x 600mm HD Quattro, to the much larger 2730mm x 1850mm VMSC, they are a useful and practical resource to display directions and important information on, and can be changed in an instant using any Wi-Fi enabled Apple device through our innovative Web Studio™. So even if plans change – for example, if a car park is full and motorists need to be re-directed to an alternative route, you can be assured that there will be minimal disruption.

MADE FOR YOU: As many of the MVIS event solutions are customisable, you can be confident that whatever your needs are, we have them covered. The Solar IP is an innovative mobile product allowing a flexible combination of event management solutions. Select your preferred combination from our portfolio: ANPR, CCTV and radar can all be accommodated on the Solar IP, and any combination of equipment housed in the platform may be easily altered to meet your changing requirements. This solution is simple and cost-effective to deploy, and because the Solar IP is not dependent on external energy supply, it is also environmentally friendly and silent in operation.

ADVERTISE: As well as offering an effective way of communicating important information to crowds, MVIS’ range of VMS units provide a great opportunity for advertising. As VMS units can support pictograms as well as text, they provide a great chance to deliver promotional messages such as dates of future events, messages from your sponsors or even paid-advertising from external businesses to a large audience in a simple yet effective way.

RELIABLE: As an MVIS customer, you can trust us to deliver not only great products, but also a great service. If you’re unsure of the best crowd control solution for your event, talk to our helpful team. They’re well placed to advise you of all the different systems that are available to you, and can offer useful information about how they will work for you. What’s more, because we offer a 24/7 customer support service, no matter when or where your event takes place, there will always be a member of the MVIS team on hand to offer assistance should you need it.

TIMELY: MVIS operates from both Matlock in the heart of the Peak District and Bow, East London, and with over 20 depots across the UK it means that no matter where you are, you can rest assured that the event management products you require will be in stock and held close-by.

If you would like to talk to us about which of MVIS’ event management solutions are right for you, please get in touch on 01629 580 570.

MVIS’ Safelane Technology

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In 2015, Highways England recorded more than 40 cases of drivers deliberately ignoring road closure signs on the A13 alone.

These figures were recorded by road workers working on a section of the A13 near Thurrock, in Essex, which was being widened to reduce congestion and improve safety. The project, which is estimated to be completed in autumn 2016, will see the A13 on the approach to junction 30 widened to four lanes in each direction, with new dedicated link roads between the M25 and A13. The work is an ongoing process, and has seen a number of work zone incursions from the start.

During 2015, a range of vehicles were seen unlawfully entering the worksite, and some drivers ignored carriageway closures. In June 2015, a road worker’s work vehicle was struck and damaged by an object thrown by the motorist of a moving vehicle.

Lizzie Pauling, project manager for Highways England says: “Safety is Highways England’s top priority. We are concerned by a number of drivers choosing to ignore road closures, putting their safety and the safety of others at risk. The improvements to the A13 and M25 will improve safety and reduce congestion for the tens of thousands of drivers who use this section each day.”

To assist in events like this, MVIS provides an innovative solution to help road workers stay safe. The Safelane Integrated Solution sees Intellicone-enabled Smart VMS positioned at road closure points, surrounded by intelligent cone barriers and contactless sensors to detect breaches. If a breach does occur, the sensors send a message to the VMS which warns the driver they are in a prohibited area, and instructs them to turn around. Simultaneously, the gatepeople at checkpoint locations are alerted by an audible alarm, giving them time to take appropriate action and retreat to a safe place. They are also supplied with a manual panic alarm to alert the workforce if a driver is to continue beyond the checkpoint. This system can incorporate CCTV if necessary and is proven to reduce the resources required to safely carry out road closures and minimise confrontations with disgruntled drivers.

For more information on Safelane Technology, please get in touch on 01629 580 570 or email us on sales@m-vis.co.uk.

 

 

 

Are your wicket signs compliant with the new Department for Transport regulations?

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You may have heard that the Department for Transport is changing the approved size for wicket sign screens where signs haven’t been located in the central reserve, also known as Fixed Taper Points (FTP), Remote Controlled Temporary Traffic Management signs (RCTTM) and Remotely Operated Temporary Traffic Management signs (ROTTM). If you have signs installed that don’t meet these new regulations they will need to be changed or Police operated rolling road blocks put in place to deploy traffic management, which can become problematic on schemes where this is a regular requirement.

Our UK manufactured five colour VMS-C meets all of the requirements set out in drawing number GT50/198/0015-1 that the Secretary of State approved on the 10th March 2016. This allows our VMS-C to be used as a replacement for FTP signs, also known as RCTTM and ROTTM signs on Smart Motorway schemes until the fixed permanent signs are fully operational. This will enable the motorways to return to All Lanes Running (ALR) without the requirement for Police operated rolling roadblocks to be used to deploy Traffic Management.

Our VMS can be controlled remotely from any internet connected PC with a web browser via MVIS’ Web Studio or Wi-Fi enabled Apple device using Bartco Curbsite Lite. All of the required approved legends are already programmed in to the system making the setting of the signs a simple process. If sufficient notice is given we can preset the messages for you, enabling you to activate and de-activate all five signs in a Fixed Taper Sign group with just six clicks of your mouse.

Individual user accounts can be set up for any number of operators, each with their own log in so a full audit trail of which messages were activated, when and who by can be recorded. We can also set access rights to: only allow them to activate the approved legends; be able to make their own legends if the signs are to be used for other purposes; or allow them viewing access only for monitoring purposes.

And with 22 depots throughout the UK and high levels of VMS in stock you can trust us to deliver.

If you’d like to discuss your requirements further, please contact us on 01629 580570.

 

 

Invest in your Staff

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Here at MVIS, we pride ourselves on the high level of customer service that we offer. No matter what your query may be – from which is the best product for your event, right through to how to operate the CCTV, the MVIS team have years of experience and always happy to share their knowledge. We even offer a 24/7 support service to ensure that no matter when or where you are working, we’re always on stand-by to lend a helping hand.

To achieve and maintain this consistently high standard, we regularly enroll staff members on different training courses to ensure that they are fully up to date and able to serve our customers to the best of their ability.

All of our operatives have been fully trained in site safety, towing, operating power tools, manual handling, driving forklifts and they all hold relevant CSCS Cards. All members of the MVIS team have undertaken comprehensive first aid training, and have been trained to use Intellicone. There has also been a number of staff going on to undergo further training in many areas to help make their working life easier. This consists of anything from Hiab training to safely operate lorries and cranes; a Slinger/Signaller course; a course in using Sage and one in using Inspire. Not even the management are safe! General Manager Anne has undergone an intensive Health & Safety course, and is currently working on obtaining a Business & Management degree, which is sponsored by the company.

In addition to this, Technical Support Tom Hooton will shortly be undergoing Warehouse & Storage training, Operations & Service Coordinator Dom will be taking his NVQ Level 3 in Customer Service, and Anne will be taking her CIPD Award in Human Resource Practice.

We are firm believers that if you look after your staff, they’ll look after your customers. It really is that simple! By supporting and believing in our staff and making sure they are 100% confident on how to deliver a great level of service, we can be sure that our customers will have 100% confidence in us.

In addition to this, by investing heavily into our staff, they see just how committed we are to them and their development, and therefore become more committed to us as a company, and this is evident through the great service offered by the MVIS team.

As Richard Branson says, “Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don’t want to.”

Get Your Message Across with MVIS

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MVIS has a long history of supplying solar powered mobile VMS across the UK and 2016 is no different.

The amber or five colour functionality of our VMS make them ideal for sporting fixtures, stadium events and festivals to help direct traffic – both those in vehicles and those on foot.

Not only do they provide a high impact way of directing a high volume of traffic, but our innovative Web Studio™ means that should it need to change in an instant, it’s also quick and easy to amend your message via any Wi-Fi enabled Apple device with a pre-made message. This is a great resource if you need to keep crowds informed of any busy routes to avoid, available car parking spaces or any other vital information to help make their experience easier and more enjoyable.

This year, MVIS will be supplying VMS to a fantastic range of sporting events yet again. Starting off with the North London Half Marathon in March, we’ll be helping them make sure that all the runners, crowds and traffic are kept informed of where they need to be at all times.

We’ll then gallop over to the Grand National at Aintree in April to supply them with a number of VMS for various uses. This will help them to keep the high volume of traffic coming into the event up-to-date with vital information such as car parking availability, or to direct the different ticket holders to their correct paddock.

We’ll also be supporting various football teams this season, as we’ll be supplying VMS for the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Final, as well as the FA Cup semi-final and final to help direct the crowds and keep them informed.

The VMS is a great tool to help with crowd control as they are easy for a mass audience to see and understand. Because the large screens can be used to display pictograms too, this is also a great way to convey information to an audience who may not speak English as a first language.

The solar powered VMS provide a great visual impact to your event and can even be used to increase brand awareness. Whether your need is for advertising and sponsorship deals, displaying event or festival information, promoting a brand or for event traffic management, our innovative VMS are guaranteed to attract attention.

If you would like to speak to someone regarding your event requirements, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us on 01629 580 570 or by emailing us at sales@m-vis.co.uk

Mark Ashbee: London Depot Supervisor

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As our London Depot Supervisor, Mark is a trusted member of the MVIS team.

How long have you been with MVIS?:
I joined MVIS on the 1st February 2016.

Job role:
My main responsibilities are the delivery and collection of VMS around London and the south of England, making repairs to VMS and CCTV.

I also carry out daily checks on vehicles we use, keep the depot clean and tidy and have products ready to deployed at short notice.

Recent projects:
The most recent big project London depot was involved in was a major tram accident in Croydon, when local agencies needed VMS deployed that day to warn motorists about diversions and road closures. We had the VMS in stock and they were ready to be delivered that afternoon. I think to have the units already to be deployed saved us precious time.

How did you get into the industry:
I come from a varied background from running bars and restaurant to waste management. I heard about the job from a good friend who worked for the company.

Most fulfilling part of your role:
The most fulfilling part of my role is to have VMS ready to be delivered as l like to be organised. Every day is different and you never know what might come through the office.

More about me:
I have two young boys – Tom and Jerry – who keep me busy when I’m at home.

When l get the time, l enjoy martial arts training which l have done for years.

 

 

Order your summer VMS now

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MVIS provides solar powered colour mobile variable message signs (VMS) across the UK. The five colour functionality of our VMS make them ideal for sporting fixtures, stadium events and festivals and as such, our products have been heavily used over the years at venues such as Wembley, Twickenham and Old Trafford for a number of concerts and sporting events to help control the flow of people and traffic in as safe a manner as possible.

With only a few months to go until the summer, we’ve been busy organising our summer schedule of VMS units for a number of large-scale events.

If you’ve got an event coming up, don’t miss out – hire our VMS units to help you direct the flow of traffic to and from your event, manage the crowds and keep them up-to-date with the latest information.

The five colour matrix signs offer the choice and flexibility of using red, green, blue and white in addition to standard amber so no matter what your message or picture, you can be sure to make it stand out.

Our VMS can also present Chapter 8/MS4 style pictograms as well as text, which our experience suggests are quickly interpreted by foreign visitors, who are not always able to understand text. This can be extremely useful when trying to direct people who do not speak or read English as a first language.

What’s more, with the ability to update the VMS units instantly via our innovative Web Studio, you can react quickly and efficiently to changing circumstances whilst providing up-to-the-minute information. Simply log on using any Wi-Fi enabled Apple device to change your message in an instant and keep your crowds informed.

Click here or more product information, or call 01629 580570 to discuss your needs.

Trust MVIS to Deliver

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MVIS has use of over 21 depots all across the UK, and because we have such great access to our stock, it means you can #trustMVIS to deliver great quality products straight to you whenever they are needed.

We operate from Bow in the heart of London, and from the rolling hills of Matlock in the heart of the Peak District, so we are ideally suited to serve every corner of the UK, no matter where you are based. What’s more, with our 24/7 support service, you can always #trustMVIS to be on hand throughout your project should you need us.

As a leading supplier of innovative mobile and solar powered monitoring and visual information systems, MVIS provides fast, flexible, cost effective temporary solutions no matter what your requirements. Whether you are in need of solar powered CCTV, smart sensor radar solutions or variable messaging signs – you can #trustMVIS to get them out to you quickly and efficiently.

We are committed to delivering greater flexibility, innovation and choice to help resolve congestion on the UK roads and management at events.

Our distribution network spans across all major towns and cities, with the use of depots situated in all corners of the UK, from Scotland and the North, right through to the Midlands and the South.

Call us on 01629 580570 to find out more.

Safety First with Overheight Integrated Solutions

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For those who work on the road, safety is their biggest concern – especially as the average fatality rate for those maintaining the UK’s road network is one of the highest amongst employment sectors.

Highways Agency statistics showed that work-zone incursions are one of the most significant risks to road workers. Between 2009 and 2013, eight road workers died and 317 were injured whilst working on or near, motorways and major A roads in England.

In response to Highways England’s (previously The Highways Agency) ‘Aiming for Zero’ campaign, and customer concern for the safety of road workers, MVIS now offers the first temporary road safety portfolio of pioneering work zone safety solutions designed to keep road workers safe.

This includes Overheight for those working at height, Safelane for those working on lane closures, and Egress for road workers at exit and entry points.

Overheight

When construction work and scaffolding are introduced onto roadside work zones, overheight workers are at an increased risk of injury from high sided vehicle collisions.

Our Overheight solutions features an Intellicone Sentry Beam – a contactless sensor – which can detect movement in ‘no go areas’ from vehicles over a certain height which would possess danger to the workers should the vehicle continue.

This movement then activates a warning to alert both the driver and the workers. A message alerting drivers to their breach is displayed on a VMS unit, enabling them to turn around and find an alternative route.

Simultaneously, an audible Intellicone Portable Site Alarm sounds to alert the workers, giving them sufficient time to move out of the perceived danger area and into a position of safety.

The Sentry Beam has a line of sight for 50 metres and communicates wirelessly with an Intellicone Traffic Management Unit (TMU) controller which is fitted to a VMS. The user can control the TMU to determine how long the messages are displayed on the sign, and can also override the system to change messages should this be required.

This solution offers road workers and those working overheight, a much greater level of safety. If you would like to find out more, please get in touch at sales@m-vis.co.uk.

Mobile Visual Information Systems

01629 580 570

MVIS, Units 6-8, Brookfield Way, Brookfield Industrial Estate, Tansley, Matlock, Derbyshire. DE4 5ND

© 2022. Company registered in England No. 8130402 - Registered Office: Units 6-8, Brookfield Way, Brookfield Industrial Estate, Tansley, Matlock, Derbyshire. DE4 5ND