13 Aug 2018

The ultimate cheat sheet for digital signage

What exactly is digital signage?

Digital signage is a content distribution platform used to display digital content on one or more screens. Come again? OK, to simplify this Wikipedia-style definition: It involves electronic devices, such as plasma, LCD, LED or e-paper screens, which show various types of content.

In the context of digital signage, “content” means anything that’s being displayed. And by anything, we really mean anything. Any type of information, like news, weather forecasts, flight schedules, adverts, food menus, social media posts, calendars, etc., can be relayed in the form of texts, images, animations, videos or audio.

How does it work and will I be able to use it?

Without delving too deep into the technical side of things, we can safely say you don’t need to be a computer whiz to operate these devices.

Most digital signage networks include an inbuilt or remotely located central server and display panels installed at specific host locations. An image or text is transmitted to these host locations via the aforementioned server. To work, all they require is the right software program, electricity, and an internet connection. And voilà, you’re good to go.

But the main feature that’s made digital signage so user-friendly is the touchscreen. It’s now possible for anyone with an opposable thumb to simply walk up to a device and customize or update the displayed content by tapping on the screen.

Should I invest in digital signage?

Short answer: yes. A slightly longer answer: There’s a milliard of reasons why digital displays have become such an integral part of so many businesses. Let’s take a look at just a few top subcategories this question entails.

Because of its user-centric properties, practically any employee at any type of organization can learn how to use this technology. They can manipulate the content share ideas on a daily basis, creating better engagement and foster a sense of community.

From displaying fun, motivational messages, to project updates and praising achievements, digital signage carries an incredible potential to increase productivity.

As they come in the form of flat screens, digital office signs can be placed anywhere, with walls being the most popular choice of surface. Remember, placing screens where they attract the most attention is an important factor in the successful dissemination of information to your target audience.

The unique physical and technological adaptability of digital signage also reduces costs and saves on resources and time. It means less printing, faster communication, and a more efficient organization of work, including an easier way of booking rooms and cutting down on administrative tasks. A win, win, win on all fronts.

What about safety and durability, you ask? I scream, you scream, we all scream for Joan screens! No, but seriously, deliberate product placement aside, e-paper devices are the safest, greenest and most sustainable options when it comes to digital signage.

Solutions based on thin client technology offer maximum data protection by storing the minimum amount of data. That same characteristic also applies to battery life, which is in this case very, very long, to say the least.