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What are the Key Differences Between a Digital Signage Integrator and an Operator?

In the world of digital signage, not all partners serve the same purpose. Two critical roles that often get lumped together—but serve very different functions—are system integrators and operators.

Whether you’re new to digital signage or scaling up an enterprise network, understanding the difference between these roles is essential—especially if you’re working with a professional-grade platform like Navori software.

System Integrator: Deal-Based and Deployment-Focused

A system integrator is typically a hardware-oriented vendor or AV/IT firm that comes to Navori on a deal-by-deal basis. Their primary role is to resell and deploy digital signage solutions, often bundling our software with displays, media players, and installation services.

Key Characteristics of System Integrators:

Project-based relationship with Navori (not long-term)
Resell Navori software as part of a deployment
High-level knowledge of the CMS
Limited service offerings—may provide Tier 1 support only
Typically do not host their own servers
Do not white-label the software
Focus on hardware setup and initial configuration

What They Do Best:

Execute the technical side of deployments (e.g., install StiX 3800 players)
Get digital signage networks up and running quickly
Act as a pass-through channel for Navori software licensing

Once the system is live, their role is largely complete unless future upgrades or support requests arise.

Operator: Long-Term, Service-Oriented Partner

In contrast, a digital signage operator is a managed services provider who builds their business around delivering ongoing digital signage services. Operators purchase Navori software and bundle it into a broader offering—content management, scheduling, monitoring, design, integration, and more.

They often act as mini Navori cloud providers, hosting their own servers and offering a white-labeled experience to their customers.

Key Characteristics of Operators:

Long-term, strategic relationship with Navori
Sell digital signage as a service using our software
Deep technical and operational knowledge of the CMS
Often host their own on-premise or cloud servers
May offer a fully white-labeled solution
Provide full-service offerings (content, design, integrations, etc.)

What They Do Best:

Deliver a complete, ongoing signage solution to end clients
Manage everything from creative to analytics and reporting
Offer scalable, multi-tenant environments
Operate with precision and autonomy—much like a regional Navori hub

Integrator vs. Operator: Quick Comparison

Feature	System Integrator	Operator
Business Model	Deal-based, project-focused	Long-term, service-driven
Navori Involvement	Reseller, occasional support	Strategic partner, deep CMS expertise
Hosting	Typically none (uses Navori Cloud or SaaS)	Often self-hosted or operates own Navori server
White Labeling	No	Frequently yes
Service Offering	Hardware, installation, Tier 1 support	Full content and network management, integrations
CMS Knowledge	High-level, functional	In-depth, expert-level
Customer Relationship	Short-term, project-specific	Long-term, often ongoing service contracts

Who Should Become an Operator vs. Integrator?

If you’re considering a partnership with Navori, it’s important to align your role with your business strengths. The table below can help you identify whether you’re best suited to become an Operator or a System Integrator.

Criteria	Operator	System Integrator
Business Model	Managed services provider	Project-based AV/IT or hardware deployment
Client Relationship	Long-term, service-driven	Deal-based, short-term
Revenue Focus	Recurring revenue (content, support, hosting)	One-time hardware/software deployment
Hosting Approach	Often self-hosted or offers white-labeled Navori instance	Typically uses Navori Cloud or SaaS
Software Knowledge	Deep understanding of the CMS	High-level operational knowledge
Service Offering	Full digital signage services (design, scheduling, support)	Installation, Tier 1 support, basic configuration
Branding	Often white-labeled	Uses Navori-branded experience
Ideal For	Agencies, MSPs, content providers	AV/IT integrators, resellers, technical deployment teams

Both roles are essential in delivering end-to-end digital signage solutions, and Navori is built to support the unique goals of each partner type.

Become a Certified Navori Partner

Whether you’re a system integrator focused on large-scale deployments or an operator offering end-to-end managed services, becoming a Certified Navori Partner opens the door to new revenue opportunities and exclusive support.

Our Reseller Program is designed to empower partners with the tools, training, and resources they need to succeed in the growing digital signage market.

Join our Partner Program

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a system integrator focused on fast, reliable deployments, or an operator offering long-term managed services, both roles play a vital part in the digital signage ecosystem.

At Navori, we’ve built our platform to support both—with robust infrastructure for integrators and powerful, scalable tools for operators. Our flexible software architecture, server options, and deep CMS capabilities make it easy for partners to deliver tailored digital signage solutions at any scale.

By clearly defining your role—operator or integrator—you can align your strategy, deliver more value to your clients, and grow your business with confidence.

Ready to take the next step? Explore our Reseller Program and become part of the global Navori partner network.