Digital signage, which describes a variety of devices that display dynamic multimedia content in public venues, provides an efficient and effective means of communication. Unlike old-school, printed posters, you can change the visuals of digital signage at the drop of a hat, making it ideal for venues that shift from day to day. It can save you money on printed posters and signs. Plus, it can employ eye-catching visuals to attract the attention of passersby, making it a powerful medium in the worlds of advertising, entertainment, and information services. Scroll down to learn how digital signage works.
Have you ever wondered how digital signage works? Although digital signage comes in a variety of forms these days, most systems contain a few vital pieces of equipment:
- A server
- A media player
- A display (or multiple displays)
- A content management system
First, a server controls the displays from a remote location. It sends information to a media player in real time. The media player transmits the content to the next vital element, the display panels (or screens). The screens display the content, but to communicate with the screens, the system operator must use a content management system.
The content management system (CMS) allows the operator to create new content, update or edit existing content, and schedule content. It is critical to the management and maintenance of a digital signage system. One system can connect to multiple media players and screens, making it easy to control your digital signage with your computer. Some systems even allow the computer to automatically create content to provide live updates of the weather, time, news, prices, schedules, etc.
Digital Content Options
Digital signs can present content in numerous formats, unlike basic printed posters. Your options include all of the following:
- Text
- Images
- Video
- Interactive interfaces
- Context-aware interfaces
Since you’re working with a digital screen instead of ink and paper, you can create scrolling text or images in addition to static content. You can also set your content to constantly update with information provided by an external newsfeed source.
Features of Digital Signage Systems
As you shop for a digital signage system, take note of convenient services and special features. Not all digital signage systems are created equal, so explore your options carefully to ensure that you select a high-quality, efficient system that will provide an excellent return on your investment. Keep an eye out for the following features:
- Remote management of signs
- Content encryption for enhanced security
- Interaction with signage via mobile devices (using an app)
- 4k display resolution
- Support of live content
- IP streaming server and playback
- Playback of multiple content types on a single screen
- Digital sound
- Live feeds to keep presentations up to date
- Geo-fencing
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) color
- M.2 interface
Applications for Digital Signage
Many public environments can benefit from digital signage, especially those venues that currently employ printed signs and posters. Digital signage helps venues reach audiences in public spaces, relaying specific messages at predetermined times and displaying dynamic content and eye-catching graphics. The following are just some of the applications that can benefit from digital signage:
- Airports:
- To update travelers on flight delays and cancellations
- To direct travelers
- To display maps of the airport
- To advertise amenities within the airport
- To broadcast emergency updates
- To remind flyers of airport protocol
- Auto Dealerships:
- To advertise products and services
- To announce promotions
- To display informational graphics and statistics
- Banks:
- To advertise products and services
- To provide financial education
- To announce holiday hours
- Business Lobbies:
- To welcome and direct visitors
- To communicate with employees
- To promote events
- Churches:
- To post services times and dates
- To display hymns and scriptures
- To make announcements
- To promote volunteer opportunities and fundraisers
- To welcome visitors
- Convention Centers:
- To direct guests
- To display convention schedules
- To advertise nearby restaurants and attractions
- To provide transit and traffic information
- Country Clubs:
- To announce events
- To display menus
- To direct guests
- To welcome visitors
- Doctor and Dentist Offices:
- To welcome patients
- To direct patients and visitors
- To display wellness tips
- To entertain people in the waiting room
- Hospitals:
- To make announcements
- To display directories
- To remind staff of hospital protocol
- To entertain people in the waiting room
- To advertise services and events
- Hotels:
- To welcome and direct guests
- To showcase local attractions
- To answer FAQs
- To display the weather forecast
- To welcome groups (wedding parties, conference attendees)
- To notify guests of emergencies (relating to weather, transportation, etc.)
- Restaurants:
- To notify diners of the daily specials
- To display customer names or order numbers when ready
- Retail Stores:
- To advertise sales
- To promote discounted products
- To create an immersive brand experience
- To entertain customers
- Schools:
- To announce the schedule (especially if block scheduling)
- To make daily announcements
- To promote events and fundraisers
- To broadcast safety alerts and instructions
- To advertise after-school activities
- Stadiums:
- To advertise sponsors, food stands, merchandise, etc.
- To display menus at food stands
- To introduce players
- To display the score
- Tourist Attractions:
- To welcome guests
- To display maps
- To answer FAQs
Now that you know how digital signage works, are you ready to purchase a new system? If you need help planning, designing, or integrating a digital signage system, contact Southwest Audio-Visual today. We supply a variety of A-V products and services, including digital signage, and we can evaluate your individual needs to ensure that your sign complements your venue. To get started, please contact us online or give us a call at (417) 887-4900. We would be happy to help you with all of your A-V needs.