The problems with conventional parking meters are myriad. Nevertheless, two advanced technologies, multispace parking meters and curb-space occupancy sensors, can make it much easier for users to pay for curb parking, and for cities to adjust prices to meet the demand.

33% of urban traffic is actively seeking a parking space.

For many people, the only reason to do anything is that it's best for them individually. And I think that's why planners have to be more realistic about devising policies so the stakeholders will say, "I see what you mean - that'll help me." I think expecting people to do the right thing for the right reason leads to a lot of failure in public policy.

When it comes to public policy, doing the right thing is more important than doing it for the right reason. The best way to get people to do what's right collectively is to make it the best thing for them to do individually. You have to give individuals a personal incentive to do what's right for society.

The problems with conventional parking meters are myriad. Nevertheless, two advanced technologies, multispace parking meters and curb-space occupancy sensors, can make it much easier for users to pay for curb parking, and for cities to adjust prices to meet the demand.

Intelligent transportation technology is key to better parking management. The adage that "You can't manage what you can't measure" fits parking perfectly.