The world is transitioning rapidly from traditional broadcasting, such as TV and video, to streaming and on-demand services. Many businesses today increasingly rely on technologies like IPTV to deliver content conveniently and seamlessly to their guests and customers.
According to Pew Research Center, the number of Americans watching TV via satellite and cable has been dropping dramatically since 2015. In 2015, 76% of viewers were consuming content through traditional media. The percentage was much lower in 2021, with only 56% of the viewers using satellite and cable.
IPTV streaming solutions offer many advantages when broadcasting video feeds through digital signage. End users can instantaneously access content rather than wait for downloaded media to load the video stream. This article explores how IPTV technology will transform digital signage and its benefits for businesses and organizations.
How IPTV streaming solutions work
An IPTV stream delivers TV and video content through an internet connection. Unlike traditional terrestrial, satellite and cable TV, it transmits video and images via an internet protocol.
You have two options when delivering content via IPTV; a public or private network. A public network is less reliable in handling the challenges of on-demand content.
On the other hand, a private network offers the service provider more control over the infrastructure. A closer infrastructure monitoring enhances security and upholds the quality of the streaming services. That’s why IPTV broadcasting over a private network wins over a public one.
Most service providers use a dedicated ecosystem to improve the quality of service. The network is usually a DSL (Digital Subscriber line). The DSL ensures seamless transmission of high-bandwidth data through the connection line.
Although IPTV service providers sometimes include internet and telephone subscriptions, DSL delivers video through a separate connection. That ensures streaming does not interfere with your internet service.
The infrastructure of IPTV and digital signage solutions
IPTV can enhance the reliability of your premise's digital signage network. The infrastructure offers users more control over the content they consume from the system.
The most critical parts of the IPTV infrastructure include the following:
Video on demand
Video on demand (VOD) is a feature that allows users to access TV programs or live streams in the system’s storage. Statistics indicate 82% of US homes with a broadband service have a VOD subscription. A hotel may offer VOD to customers in their suites to provide a similar viewing experience.
IPTV head-end system
The system encrypts and decrypts live video between the network and connected devices. The head-end component is essential for compliance with Digital Rights Management compliance requirements for business premises broadcasting live TV. The head-end system can distribute different types of video feeds, such as Cable TV and online-streaming content.
Use set-top boxes
A set-top box is a device that establishes a connection between the video feed and the digital display. They have in-built interfaces that allow them to integrate with existing networks. IPTV set-top boxes can deliver speeds up to 1Gbit/s through the local connection.
Interactive portal
The system displays the IPTV schedule on a web-based portal on the end-user’s equipment. Staff or end-users can choose on-demand videos to watch or display on the digital screen.
Why use IPTV digital display systems?
You can use IPTV to augment the features of conventional display devices from your, for example, android digital signage supplier. Organizations can deploy an IPTV server for streaming, branding and product promotion.
To enhance user interactions
Users with accounts in the system can upload content to the digital signage system. The IPTV server allows staff to retrieve video feeds from the content management system.
Personnel with accounts can customize the messages to display on the screen at different times. As a result, the IPTV system delivers targeted content to prospects through the digital signage system. For example, a digital signage smart TV solution can detect customers' location as they access the system through their mobile phones. The server displays video streams with relevant information as they approach the electronic billboard.
Some systems may incorporate chat and interactive features for their employees. The system's end users can share ideas and comments while watching the video feed. For example, the system's end users may include staff in the ticketing office. You can also customize its features and assign privileges to different accounts.
The architecture could also incorporate digital signage hardware like touchscreens to boost the customer’s experience. Sports fans can approach the screen and choose the content they want to watch.
Facilitate real-time video broadcasting
Another benefit of broadcasting video feeds to digital signage through an IPTV server is the seamless content delivery. The IPTV protocol allows the system to download data while simultaneously playing the media. Unlike the conventional HTTP or FTP approach, there are no delays for the end users as they wait to view the downloaded video content.
Corporate networks can use IPTV to deliver video to the user’s desktop. The IPTV server encrypts and decrypts the data packets, so the end user does not have to install software on their PC. The infrastructure design guarantees consistency and quality of service.
Meet business objectives with an IPTV stream
An IPTV can help businesses realize their branding, decision-making, and customer service goals. Some of the applications of IPTV and digital signage may include:
Point of-sale-promotion
Restaurants or clothing stores use real-time video and images to display sales messages to buyers at the point of sale. The goal is to encourage customers to purchase related items and boost sales.
Real-time outdoor advertising
IPTV and digital signage can ensure reliable advertising content transmission to fans in sports arenas. A high level of service quality is critical for the companies paying for the advertisement. Enhancing the live broadcast could also boost revenue generated from sporting events.
Customer experience
Businesses can display useful information to customers through the digital signage smart TV device in strategic locations. For example, the display may lead customers to areas with specific products within the premises.
Improve safety within the healthcare premises
The system displays information in waiting rooms to reduce dwell times and entertain visitors. The IPTV server can update the information during an emergency.
Conclusion
Organizations can exploit the many features of their IPTV digital signage system to meet their business objectives. Your digital signage supplier can provide resources depending on the subscription package. For example, the features may integrate a digital signage smart TV solution that does not require set-top boxes. Your business can deploy the IPTV system on existing devices and eliminate unnecessary hardware costs.
If you are unsure how IPTV can be integrated with your digital signage system, consult your software vendor. The service provider can guide you when choosing features to match your needs and preferences. Contact LOOK DS for a comprehensive digital signage solution today.
