With the help of recent technology, people no longer solely rely on their television at home to receive public information or see a new product. This is because of how businesses and government offices use other mediums to gain attention and attract the public.
And in today’s technology, one of these mediums is digital signage.
But brands may ask: What type of digital signage should we use to suit our needs?
Read on as we share with you the different types of digital signage to help you choose one that fits your brand’s needs.
What is Digital Signage?
Digital signage, or electronic signage, is an electronic display of videos, static images, or digital graphics.
Flat panel screens such as LCD and LED, are popular choices for digital displays due to their high resolution and ability to display vibrant colours, making them ideal for showcasing dynamic content in a variety of settings. LCD screens are a popular choice for digital signage due to their durability, energy efficiency, and wide viewing angle.
Uses of Digital Signage
Here are the different uses of digital displays that businesses and brands can employ for their marketing campaign.
1. Public Information
Singapore’s Health Promotion Board used digital signage to inform the public about the incorrect use of the antibiotic pill. Aside from the animated video shown on their social media sites, they also use digital displays and introduced “Antibiotic Boy” to the public which truly resonates with the audience, especially with children.
This HPB ad by Superpixel aims to inform the public that “Antibiotics kill bacteria, but do not kill the flu viruses.” The signage is shown at bus stops and cinemas to create a lasting impact and gain attraction to all Singaporeans.
2. Services
Adidas’ Virtual Footwear Wall in Germany uses digital displays to showcase products. Customers can interact with the 360-degree shoe model on a touch screen, with an immersive audio experience. They can rotate, zoom, and examine the shoes in detail.
3. Promotions
Another use of digital signage is for promotions. Businesses can do this by displaying digital content with static ads, product demos, or video testimonials that allow advertisers to take advantage of multimedia screens such as LCD screens and LED displays. Brands can also produce animation videos or motion graphics in advertising their products to the public.
4. Interactive Forms & Games
Aritaum, a Korean beauty store, uses digital signage to enhance in-store customer engagement and brand recall. The store offers interactive elements such as touchable mirror displays and AR content to attract walk-in customers and improve their shopping experience.
5. Calendars & Event Schedules
Hotels, retail centres, colleges, businesses, theme parks, and healthcare institutions can use digital displays to create calendars that share future appointment hours and event or work schedules. It can now improve the customer service experience as it keeps visitors updated about everyday operations.
6. Maps
Simon, a global retail real estate leader, uses interactive digital maps with the help of Mappedin, a popular software provider for interactive wayfinding systems. This is to help shoppers in finding Simon mall’s desired stores and amenities. The maps allow customers to pan, zoom, rotate, hover, and click to easily locate what they are searching for.
Also read: Everything You Need To Know About Virtual Reality 360
Types of Digital Signage
After seeing how brands and government offices can use digital signage for various purposes and content, let’s now look at the different types of digital signage to give you an idea of which one may suit your business needs.
1. Dynamic Digital Signage
Dynamic digital signage is the display of photos and videos via full-page or through multiple screens as seen either inside an establishment or as outdoor displays. Moreover, it uses liquid crystal displays (LCD) and light-emitting diode (LED) technologies. This type of digital display shows information that changes when a predefined condition is satisfied.
This can include sensors, facial recognition software, and cameras installed on a digital display that can determine the age and gender of audiences. As a result, businesses’ content seen on the display becomes more specialised and customised that resonates with the target audience.
For example, McDonald’s UK uses eye-catching weather-reactive digital ads that adjust the advertised product based on the weather. On cold mornings, the ads feature warm items such as coffee and breakfast sandwiches, while on hot days the ads promote iced drinks.
2. Indoor digital signage
An example of an indoor digital display is the use of digital wayfinding displays specially designed to guide passengers throughout the airport. The display content can show real-time flight information, including departure and arrival times, gate numbers, and boarding status. Some airports also use the screens to display advertising, promotions, and other relevant information such as security alerts, weather updates, and public transportation options.
3. Digital Menus
Digital menu boards are starting to replace static menu displays. This type of digital display can be changed with new menu items and pricing in a matter of minutes. What’s even better is that they are easier to read and see from the customer’s perspective.
Image Credits: Pinterest
Customers can be enticed to order specific items on the menu by showing photos of the cuisine on digital signs. Additionally, restaurants can use the touchscreen feature, and interactive menu screens for simple order taking.
One advantage of this type of digital sign is that it speeds up the ordering process and minimises the risk of human error in getting customer orders.
4. Freestanding displays
This type of digital signage can be seen in shopping centre, colleges and universities, airports, train stations, and even hotels.
Free-standing digital displays are exactly what their name implies—freestanding. They don’t need to be mounted to anything or hung up on a wall. Free-standing digital displays use an LCD screen and can be connected to the internet to display a wide range of digital content.
Two common types of using freestanding displays are to advertise products and services and inform customers about ongoing deals. Companies can also use freestanding digital displays to guide people to their desired locations with the help of a map.
5. Digital Posters
The digital poster is the most basic type of digital signage. These are straightforward wall-mounted displays that resemble posters.
Image Credits: wallboard.us
They are placed on an LCD screen or an LED display that has enough space for a media player. This can be perfect for a brand that is to use digital displays and features for its product, events, and service to its target audience.
Furthermore, digital posters are one of the most popular types of digital signage and will remain to be a top choice for anyone looking for digital signs for their businesses.
Let’s also look at the key factors you need to focus on when choosing the right digital signage in this next section.
Also read: 3D LED Display: What It Is, How It Works, Benefits, and Limitations
Factors to Consider in Choosing the Right Digital Signage
There are a few considerations when looking for the right digital signage that fits your business needs. Here are some factors to help you plan and decide on the right digital signage for your business.
1. Location
You might need to discuss first where you want to display your digital content. It is crucial to select a location where your target market can easily see the digital content about your business. This will also include whether it is indoor or outdoor digital displays.
2. Type of Content
Along with your search for a suitable location, another factor to help you decide is to determine the type of digital content you want to display. You may look for LED screens if you want animation videos or motion graphics. Meanwhile, a digital poster or free-standing display will do if you only want to show static images, texts, or product details.
3. Budget
Take your budget into account when choosing which digital display to use. Even though LED screens can cost more than basic digital displays, the unique viewing experience they provide can increase the chance of achieving your business goals.
Plan your next digital content
Promoting a brand or public information is so much easier now thanks to digital signage. If your business is searching for ways to create meaningful content whether to increase brand awareness or deliver a compelling story about your new service, then animation content might be a viable option for you.
Superpixel is an animation production company that helps brands to deliver compelling and engaging stories to achieve the desired goal. Whether it’s 2D or 3D animation, interactive content or motion graphics, Superpixel can help you create digital content that suits your needs.
Contact us today and let Superpixel turn your ideas into digital content that people will enjoy. Click here!