Users of digital signage know that the process of putting it into action may be drawn-out and tiresome, or even worse, like trying to shoot clouds. It's time you learned the reasons behind this and how to change things.
It's not hard to think of hundreds of ways a digital signage network may improve a company's communications strategy, from raising brand recognition and sales to cutting down on paper use and speeding up the spread of timely, relevant information. There are many advantages to using digital signage, and they are just as varied as the many ways in which they can be used.
While it should go without saying, people often behave as if all of this were done automatically. It's unlikely that anyone's communication objectives will be met by just mounting a digital display on the wall and putting some images on it. That will probably become just another meaningless signal added to the clutter. Meeting specified objectives with a digital sign strategy calls for collaboration amongst relevant parties. Without the input of seasoned mentors in AV and IT technology, project management, finance, marketing and business leadership, launching a digital signage project is typically doomed to failure.
Digital signage vendors/partners are becoming more important to the success of businesses, stores, governments, hotels and property management companies in achieving their communication objectives and avoiding problems.
When first implementing digital signs, many businesses run into unforeseen issues that cost them time and money but might have been prevented with a little forethought and preparation. Consider this six-step method to make digital signage planning and implementation much easier and more rewarding for your firm, whether success is defined or measured.
Setting objectives
Each digital signage project requires upfront goal-setting. Tell me more about what it is you're trying to find. Where do you want to focus your efforts? What impression and feeling do you hope your audience will take away from this? So, what exactly do you want to happen?
Sometimes there isn't enough back-and-forth, and worst of all, the objectives and expected outcomes aren't properly recorded. What does success even mean without benchmarks against which to measure progress? No one has ever achieved anything without deciding what they want to do. The time invested at the beginning of a project clearly defining its goals will pay dividends later.
Choose a contractor or do it yourself
Once you've set your goals, the next step is to decide whether to hire a contractor to set up your digital signage system or to do it yourself. If you have experience with technology and feel comfortable working with hardware and software, you may be able to set up the system yourself. However, hiring a contractor may be a better option if you don't have the expertise or time. The professional AV integrator can take over the full cycle of work: from the solution selection to its installation.
When choosing a contractor, it's important to research and asks for references. Look for a company with experience in digital signage and a track record of successful installations. Ensure you get a written estimate and contract outlining the scope of work, timeline and costs.
Select the right software
The main thing about digital signage software is that it should be fully compatible with hardware you have or just are going to purchase. That’s why it is better to choose a software that supports multiple operating systems, like Android, Windows or Linux. This gives you at least more freedom when considering the hardware options. Besides, digital signage software has to be user-friendly and powerful to be effective. Intuitiveness in using the program is a requirement. Your original needs will change and expand over time. Because of this, you should go for a service that goes above and beyond to meet your requirements. As a result, you won't have to worry about making a solution switch until after two years. Find out where the program is headed in the future. Just what changes are in the works? And how quickly? Do feedback and suggestions from customers factor into the development process?
Think about how to get other people involved from the beginning in using the program. Digital signage software should permit either full or partial delegation of broadcast management to community members (office or store manager). Displays' on/off switches should be remotely operable through the software's user interface. Keeping screens on while no one can view them wastes energy and money.
Using digital signage software, you may show material instantly and schedule and trigger its presentation based on certain conditions. Digital signage software must integrate with your firm's information system to maximize content and real-time display data.
Select the appropriate digital signage hardware
To begin, choose tech that works for your business and its setting (screen size, lifespan, luminosity and shock resistance). Traditional screens, shop window displays, tablets, POS terminals with two screens, video walls and kiosks, all fall within this category.
It's not only about the resolution regarding digital signage; other factors like screen size, brightness, and contrast should also be considered. Putting screens in a storefront window or outdoors where they will be exposed to intense sunlight means you'll need to look for screens made for outdoor usage. Moreover, you should consider whether you will use a TV display with an xternal media player or will choose a SoC (System-on-Chip) solution and install digital signage software right onto the display’s operating system.
The presentation should be seamless; thus, the player's performance must match the broadcast material. It would help to consider the player's storage capacity, memory and usage in addition to its visual and multimedia capabilities. Avoid relying only on patented tools or products from a single company. Instead, go with open and standard technology to ensure your project may grow as needed.
Installation
Once you've selected your hardware and software, it's time to install your digital signage system. It can be complex, especially installing multiple displays or a video wall. If you've hired a contractor, they should handle the installation for you. If you're doing it yourself, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and test the system before going live.
Consider factors such as the placement of the displays, the wiring and cabling and the power source. Make sure they are mounted securely and can withstand the environmental conditions in the space.
Configuration and training of users
After the installation, it's time to configure and train users to use the software. Configuring the software involves setting up the content to be displayed, scheduling it and ensuring that the displays function correctly. This step is critical in ensuring that your digital signage system works properly and delivers your message effectively.
Training your users on how to use the system is also crucial. Even if the system is easy to use, providing proper training can help ensure that everyone is comfortable using it and can troubleshoot any issues that may arise. Ensure to provide clear instructions and support, and be available to answer any questions your users may have.
Now you know the six essentials of digital signage. The conventional "a slide show is good enough" approach should be abandoned since it is inefficient for producing the wow factor that generates a superior customer experience. Your team has to be dedicated to following the process all the way through without taking any shortcuts that might compromise the result to be successful with digital signs.
