Digital Signage FAQs: What to know
Digital signage has been around for some time, but it’s still not a concept that everyone is familiar with. You may have seen digital screens displaying advertisements in shopping malls, airports, or even elevators, but have you ever wondered how they work? Would you like to know which type of software is required to drive content to each screen, or how much it costs to install digital signage?
In this article, we’ll give you a basic overview of digital signage. We’ll cover what it is, the software it needs, its importance, and the cost. We’ll also address common questions about using Smart TVs, the distinction between Smart TVs and signage TVs, and other key topics. This guide will help you grasp the basics of digital signage and its benefits for your business, regardless of your role – be it a CIO, advertising executive, or middle manager.
What is Digital Signage?
Digital signage, also known as digital displays, are screens specially designed to display advertisements, promotional information, news, and other content to a targeted audience. Screens can vary in size and style, ranging from large displays for out-of-home advertising, video walls, touchscreens, kiosks, and interactive displays.
Digital signage is used by many businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, government agencies, and other organizations to inform, sell, and entertain. Digital signage systems typically consist of three key components:
- Hardware (the displays and the media player).
- Software (the content management system or CMS).
- Content (the messages and media shown on the displays).
What type of software is required for Digital Signage?
The types of digital signage software will vary depending on the system and the goals of the organization. Some systems use cloud-based solutions, while others use on-premises software that must be installed on a server or other computer. Depending on the organization’s needs, on-premise solutions can be installed in-house or in the cloud. The size and type of organization will dictate which type of solutions they select.
Regardless of the type of CMS software, the user interface (UI) will usually be accessed through a common web browser.
It’s important to note that some digital signage software offers basic features such as simple scheduling and content management. While other solutions are more advanced and offer features that support interactive content, data analytics, and mobile device integration.
Those of you who are comparing solutions should know the Navori QL CMS is currently available in basic (Essential) and advanced (Professional) editions. You simply choose the one that meets your needs, either in a cloud-based or on-premise version.
Why do I need Digital Signage?
There are many reasons why businesses and organizations rely on digital signage. Some use it for marketing and advertising, to promote products and services, and to increase brand awareness. Other businesses use digital signage for internal communication and employee training, to share company news, safety updates, and other important messages. Lastly, some use digital signage for wayfinding and information sharing, or to help visitors navigate buildings and facilities.
Digital signage has become essential for organizations and groups that cater to a public audience. With digital signage, information, and messages can be published instantly to any number of screens regardless of their location. This makes it ideal for many types of venues, like restaurants, shopping malls, retail stores, medical clinics, arenas, cinemas, corporate offices, and many others.
With support for live data, interactivity, dynamic content, digital out-of-home advertising, and many other professional features, Navori QL delivers a rich and dynamic experience in all types of venues.
How much does it cost to install Digital Signage?
The price of setting up digital signage can differ based on a few things:
- Screen Size and Number: How big and how many screens you need will affect the cost.
- Software and Hardware: The type of software and hardware you choose plays a role, too.
- Content Complexity: If your content is more complicated, it might cost more to set up.
Depending on these things, the cost can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars for each screen. The location of the screen and the type (like a single screen or multiple screens) also matter.
The kind of CMS (cloud-based or on-premise) can impact yearly expenses. Cloud software usually charges per media player software each year. On-premise software has a one-time purchase cost along with yearly maintenance fees. Startups often prefer cloud software because it needs less upfront money. Larger, more established businesses typically go for on-premise licensing.
Remember, the benefits of digital signage often outweigh the costs. It can boost communication, bring in more people, and lead to better engagement and sales.
How do I use my Smart TV for Digital Signage, and do I need a media player?
Many businesses ask if they can use their regular Smart TVs for digital signage. The answer is, it depends. While Smart TVs can work for basic digital signage, they might not be the best choice for professional setups.
This is because Smart TVs aren’t made specifically for digital signage and might lack the features of dedicated signage displays. They also can’t handle the demands of continuous 24/7 operation. Using Smart TVs for digital signage can also mean less reliability and limited options for managing content and scheduling.
Another thing to think about is warranties. Smart TVs are typically considered consumer-grade, so they don’t come with the same warranty terms as Signage TVs. In many cases, using a consumer Smart TV for commercial purposes can void the warranty.
What is the difference between Smart TV and Signage TV?
As mentioned above, Smart TVs and professional Signage TV displays are not the same thing. Signage TVs, or commercial displays, are designed for digital signage and offer features that Smart TVs can’t provide.
Some of the key differences between Smart TVs and Signage TVs include:
- Hardware durability: Signage TVs are designed to run longer and withstand more wear and tear than consumer-grade Smart TVs. Some Signage TVs can operate in harsh conditions such as hot environments and locations with high humidity.
- Brightness and contrast: Signage TVs typically have higher brightness and contrast levels than Smart TVs. Some categories of Signage TVs can be used outside, in full daylight. These screens can be installed on building exteriors and safely exposed to the elements.
- Media playback: Signage TVs can offer more features such as touchscreen interactivity, built-in networking, and daisy-chaining for simplified video wall installations.
- Remote management: Signage TVs can be managed remotely through a centralized software system. This makes it easy to control each screen’s features across any distance.
When comparing digital signage CMS software, look for solutions that support a wide range of media players and Signage TVs. Navori QL is one of the few CMS that offers its media player software for Windows, Android, and System-on-Chip displays from all major manufacturers.
In Conclusion
Digital signage is a powerful tool for businesses. It offers flexibility, dynamism, and engagement in communication. To make informed decisions about using it, you need to understand its basics, like hardware, software, installation costs, and differences between Smart TVs and signage TVs.
Whether you aim to enhance marketing, engage employees, or simplify information sharing, digital signage can help you reach your goals and stay competitive in the digital era.