Digital signage: What it is and what its key benefits are
Digital signage is an excellent medium for conveying information. It uses LCD monitors and LED screens to present various content in an attractive way. The basic form of digital signage has been known and popular for many years – in restaurants, airports, bus stops and more. But combining digital signage with IoT sensors can do so much more! Learn more about digital signage solutions and applications.
What is digital signage?
It has long been recognised that effective marketing content should be personalised and tailored to the audience profile. Thanks to IoT and high-quality digital displays, this is now being taken to the next level, with attractively presented and personalised content just a step away from making a purchasing decision.
However, marketing is just the tip of the iceberg and one of many examples of the use of digital signage. In simple terms, this technology involves monitoring changes recorded by systems and sensors that are sensitive to the environment and commands. These changes then trigger the presentation of specific content on LCD or LED screens.
Digital signage use cases
Probably all residents of larger cities and metropolises are familiar with one of the most widely spread use cases: screens placed at bus stops, tram stops and underground stations. They constantly update information such as the estimated time of arrival, maps, or timetable changes. Presented in this way, the information makes it easier for passengers to navigate the city, as well as further reducing congestion and potentially encouraging residents to use public transport. The same is the case with digital signage screens placed at airports or train stations and on highways, in this case providing information on potential accidents on the road or other obstructions.
Other equally interesting examples of the use of digital signage technology are:
- Smart advertisement displays: The transition from traditional billboards to screens brings many benefits. First, due to its brightness and the ability to integrate movement, it allows to attract the attention of potential customers even better. In addition, it can also be associated with long-term savings. It is not necessary to print and put up more billboards each time a promotion or offer is changed. However, when combined with the right IoT sensors, such screens can do so much more. This is because they can react in real time to changes in product stocking levels, the weather, and all kind of other data. A good real-life example would be the British Airways 'look up' campaign. The company placed screens in central London that displayed information on the routes of planes flying overhead.
- Voice activated screens: Increasingly, touch screens are being replaced by screens that provide interactivity through voice. This is particularly important for people with disabilities. In addition, the pandemic period has taught people to be more cautious about the transmission of bacteria and viruses.
- User generated content: It is a well-known fact that there is no better marketeer than the consumers themselves. When combined with digital signage, user generated content (UGC) is a great idea to make relationships with customers more authentic and increase their engagement.
- Counting people: Especially during large events and in times of pandemics, the number of people in one room should be controlled. Thanks to IoT sensors, there is no need for a security guard constantly standing at the door with a people counter in hand. Moreover, such sensors can also automatically open and close doors. Digital signage allows data and information to be presented in an attractive and easy-to-understand way.
Digital signage and meeting rooms
The pandemic has accustomed employees to remote working and all the conveniences that come with it. The return to the office (at least in hybrid form) will present new challenges for employers. Every modern office is looking for means and technology to make work even more convenient and productive. With help comes digital signage, which can be put to great use for meeting rooms.
With digital signs, employees can easily see if a particular meeting room is currently occupied and check the schedule. This can also be useful at various events where people from outside of the company are attending. Other than this, digital signage for meeting rooms allows to display capacity, emergency alerts, or event highlights. In combination with other devices, it is also a great solution for remote communication.
All possibilities of digital signage application presented above are to show how versatile this technology is. And what we have mentioned above is still a tip of the iceberg...
How can ALSO help resellers with digital signage solutions?
At ALSO we offer digital signage solutions for resellers who can add this offer to their portfolio. It will become a valuable argument for customer acquisition and retention.
The ALSO team is a reliable partner – from the first enquiry through to installation. It offers optimum support and advice with a coordinated product range, sales concept and reliable implementation.
