Last update: 04/14/25
Digital signage has overtaken traditional signage. It is an extremely powerful communication medium that is hard to avoid. But what is it and how can you use it to your advantage? Read on for a full description of the technology, examples of its use and tips on how to find the right solution for your needs.
Wondering what digital signage is? Well, it’s kind of a catch-all term for any interactive screen or panel you may have come across without even realising it. You know those screens that allow you to find books in a library, book a meeting room or find your way around a shopping centre? They’re digital signage.
Digital signage is a centrally controlled system, a content distribution platform connected to one or more screens.
They come in all shapes and sizes, from small screens to giant touch screens.
There are many different uses for digital signage. Here are some of the most common:
Whether on the street or in the office, digital signage is increasingly replacing traditional signage, and here’s why:
To produce an effective print poster, you usually need a graphic designer and a lot of time on your hands. When it comes to creating content for digital signage, however, there are many easy-to-use software tools that come with it, making design quick and easy.
Shops, hotels and restaurants can change their offers, promotions and prices as often as they like, while offices can keep their staff up to date with the day’s events. These updates can be made using a laptop, tablet or even a smartphone.
Perhaps the biggest flaw of traditional signage is that it is static, so it quickly loses its impact.
By providing increased interactivity with customers in a retail environment, digital signage increases engagement and brand recognition. In a corporate environment, the screen can be used to help achieve internal communication objectives.
There are hundreds of types of digital signage systems. They come in many different sizes and styles. However, there are 4 main solutions:
Perhaps the simplest of all digital signage systems is the digital signage poster. These are simply LCD screens placed flat against a wall. They are often housed in a simple but attractive frame that offers little room for anything other than a simple media player. For a first step into the world of digital signage, digital posters are ideal because they are simple to mount and install. They can be used in either portrait or landscape orientation.
Another method of digital signage is the use of a stand-up module. Often touch-sensitive, these models are used for more interactivity.
These are often bolted to the floor, which makes them rather awkward, but they are ideal for turning the digital signage into a centrepiece.
It is also possible to install your device on castors for more flexibility.
A less obtrusive but less eye-catching method of mounting an LCD digital signage display is to hang it from the ceiling. The digital ceiling display is often used for displaying information.
It is not natural for the eyes to look up while walking, so this form of installation is less recommended for marketing/advertising purposes.
Outdoor locations are becoming increasingly popular, but there are more requirements: the LCD enclosures that protect the screens must be watertight and contain adequate cooling, heating and air circulation systems.
The reflection of the sun must also be taken into account: it is recommended to use transflective monitors.
Apart from these features, outdoor digital signage is used in the same way as indoor displays.
Basically, to set up a digital signage system, you need :
The cost of implementing digital signage technology will depend on the scope of your project. Generally, the screen(s) is the most expensive part of the ecosystem.
Transflective displays transmit and reflect light (hence the name), eliminating the need for backlighting in sunlight or favorable ambient light conditions, which helps save energy. This type of display is particularly useful for outdoor digital signage. The brighter the sunlight, the brighter the image on the screen.
The options are almost endless: XML feeds, social media, calendars, weather updates, and more.
This depends on your priorities. It may also vary based on the number of digital signs you want to deploy and their locations. For instance, installing signage in multiple locations across the country will require a different type of player than installing a single screen in a reception area. You’ll also need to decide whether the same content should be displayed everywhere or if each screen should show different content. Finally, consider whether your content will appear on a single screen, across multiple screens in grid mode, or on a large video wall. All these options require different types of players.