Abstract
We consider the asymmetric simple exclusion process (ASEP) with open boundaries and other driven stochastic lattice gases of particles entering, hopping and leaving a one-dimensional lattice. The long-term system dynamics, stationary states, and the nature of phase transitions between steady states can be understood in terms of the interplay of two characteristic velocities, the collective velocity and the shock (domain wall) velocity. This interplay results in two distinct types of domain walls whose dynamics is computed. We conclude that the phase diagram of the ASEP is generic for one-component driven lattice gases with a single maximum in the current-density relation.