What is digital signage?

Here is how the Wikipedia version explains digital signage:

Digital signage is a subpart of signage. Digital signage uses technologies such as LCDs, LEDs, and projection to display content such as digital images, video, streaming media, and information. They can be found in public spaces, transportation systems, museums, sports stadiums, retail stores, hotels, restaurants, and corporate buildings, providing navigation, exhibits, marketing, and outdoor advertising.

So, in a nutshell, digital signage consists of any size screen displaying any type of content for any reason. This is an incredibly broad description and one of the main reasons why the average person looking to install a digital signage network is easily confused. Of course, another key reason for the confusion is the large number of suppliers to choose from.

So what is the best way to navigate through this multitude of vendor lists?

Determining Your Needs

The first question we ask our clients – and one they often struggle to answer – is “What is the ideal outcome once a digital signage network is deployed?” This is the first step in determining a prospect’s goals and objectives, and we ask a few further questions:

• How many digital displays do you want to deploy?
• What is the timeline for project deployment?
• What is your content strategy?
• Do you have a budget?

After completing this discovery process, we tend to either quickly demonstrate our capabilities or the prospect decides they have homework to do. Both scenarios are good. If you have a clear understanding of the intent and resources needed to make your network a successful one. If you don’t, it’s better to take a step back and think about it than to fall into the trap that so many do: buy digital displays, hang them up, and spend months figuring out what to do with them. Because we chose a digital signage network system, not digital displays.

So, you have a budget, a plan and the necessary resources.

There are many components to a digital signage solution, but they can be divided into a few broad categories:

1. Hardware-Physical components: screens (digital displays), media players (if necessary), network components, mounts, etc.
2. Software-Content and/or device management systems and playback software on media players
3. Connectivity-How the digital display is connected to the content management system, whether using hardwire, Wi-Fi or mobile technology
4. Installation-The entire installation process from site survey to final installation
5. Content – the biggest ongoing cost of the network: constantly creating or subscribing to new content to keep the network current and relevant.

FAQ 1: What factors should I consider while selecting a digital signage vendor?

Answer: Several factors are crucial in selecting the right digital signage vendor. Key considerations include the vendor’s expertise and experience in the industry, the quality and reliability of their products, their ability to provide customized solutions, ongoing technical support, and scalability options as your business grows.

FAQ 2: How important is the vendor’s experience?

Answer: Experience plays a pivotal role when it comes to digital signage vendors. An experienced vendor not only possesses the necessary technical knowledge but also has a better understanding of various industries and their specific requirements. They can offer valuable insights, best practices, and tailor-made solutions to meet your business needs effectively.

FAQ 3: Can the vendor provide flexible and customizable solutions?

Answer: Every business has its unique branding and advertising requirements. Therefore, it is vital to choose a vendor who can offer flexibility in terms of software customization, content creation tools, and hardware compatibility. A vendor capable of delivering personalized solutions ensures that your digital signage aligns seamlessly with your brand identity and marketing goals.

FAQ 4: What kind of technical support should I expect from the vendor?

Answer: Technical support is crucial for maintaining smooth operations of your digital signage network. Before finalizing a vendor, ensure they offer comprehensive technical assistance, such as remote troubleshooting, regular system updates, and prompt response to any issues that may arise. A reliable vendor will provide a dedicated support team that is readily available to address your concerns and ensure minimal disruptions to your business.

FAQ 5: Is scalability an important consideration?

Answer: Scalability is vital as your business evolves and expands. Choose a vendor who can accommodate your growing needs, whether it involves increasing the number of displays, adding new functionalities, or expanding your digital signage network to multiple locations. A vendor with scalable solutions ensures that your investment remains future-proof and adaptable to emerging technologies.

FAQ 6: Are there any additional features or services I should look for?

Answer: While the core functionality of a digital signage vendor is critical, additional features can provide added value to your investment. Look for vendors who offer analytics and reporting tools to track the performance of your signage campaigns and gather customer insights. Integration capabilities with existing systems and compatibility with third-party applications can further enhance the versatility of your digital signage solution.

Conclusion:

Selecting the right digital signage vendor is a significant decision that influences the success of your marketing efforts. By considering factors such as experience, customization options, technical support, scalability, and additional features, you can ensure that your chosen vendor meets your unique business requirements. Take the time to research and compare different vendors in the market, read customer reviews, and evaluate their offerings carefully. With the right digital signage partner, you can create visually appealing and impactful displays that captivate your audience and drive business growth.