Selecting a digital signage solution can feel like an overwhelming task – especially when faced with hundreds if not thousands of options, all claiming to offer similar features and capabilities. Knowing what to look out for and bearing in mind certain criteria can help choosing the correct option that little bit easier.
The ability to have IPTV integrated into digital signage software allows up-to-date and live video content to be shown on screen and is a great way to keep people engaged and interested in what is shown. Allowing an organisation to become more dynamic with the ability to stream live sports or music events, university graduation ceremonies or a CEO or town hall address, can take a digital signage solution to the next level.
Grabbing attention is the key to digital signage success. For example, using dual video at a live events venue allows you to stream the show or game onto digital signage screens whilst simultaneously playing video advertising (contributing to a real ROI for the venue). A system able to do this allows an organisation more flexibility in how content is displayed and goes above and beyond a traditional digital signage layout.
It is also important to be able to quickly update and change graphics or information displayed as part of the digital signage content – some platforms, like Tripleplay, offer the ability to do this in a matter of seconds; changing images, statistics and information in just a couple of clicks and automated in some cases. Having this flexibility is vital, especially if the person making these necessary changes is not hugely tech-savvy.
Digital signage is a great way to deliver dynamic digital menu boards, creating a contemporary and engaging shopping experience for customers.
Through integration with EPOS systems, companies can promote low selling products and automatically remove sold out items from the menu choice. Scheduling and content management allows menus to be changed or updated, depending on the time of the day, week or year, thus ensuring that the content is always up-to-date and refreshed.
Digital menu boards are a tried and tested method which are used to minimise waiting periods for customers, as well as reducing transaction time and increasing transaction spend through advertising.
Can you imagine having to walk around every screen on site when there is a problem – especially if the site is 1 mile in length or staff resources are limited? Knowing what is going on, on every screen is crucial. It is important that the digital signage solution that is deployed allows you to remotely, run diagnostics of the entire system in real time, giving you the flexibility to log in, spot and fix any issues that may have occurred, without aimlessly wandering site and looking at all the screens individually.
Digital signage technology is changing and evolving rapidly, it is easy to pick a proprietary hardware solution without considering how it will perform or if it will be surpassed in two or even five years’ time. Whereas investing in a software based digital signage solution, that is likely to grow and develop alongside the organisation, will help to future-proof any investment.
Initially, a company may only require a few screens to show static poster content to a small area of a business, or may be limited by budget. Make sure features can be added over time and only pay for the features and functionality that are going to used – being able to upgrade and enhance the solution as an organisation grows and develops is paramount.
Having a clear content strategy in place when setting up a digital signage solution is very important. People within an organisation will have different roles and responsibilities and this should be mirrored within the digital signage system that is adopted. A digital signage solution should have clear parameters set when it comes to usage rights and access controls – something fundamentally crucial from a security perspective. For example, a receptionist shouldn’t necessarily be allowed full control of the system but may need the ability to change an image, video or text on a number of screens in the reception area.
Another aspect of content strategy that should be considered are the overall project goals. Are there great opportunities to drive revenues through paid sponsorships and advertising for any public facing digital signage? Is a flexible solution required with the ability to update messages and announcements for internal corporate communications? It is key to make sure the digital signage solution selected works with a company’s major goals and objectives.
Ultimately, with more and more companies investing in a digital signage solution and more and more offerings coming to the market, it is important to know what to look out for when choosing a solution, making sure it’s scalable, flexible and can grow as and when it needs to.
Tripleplay has been developing its digital signage and IPTV platform for the sixteen years and as a software manufacturer is a leader in innovation and now offers thoroughly tried and tested solutions for clients.
For more information on TripleSign Digital Signage: Click here.
