How to Find Your Perfect Digital Signage Display
When it comes to selecting the perfect digital signage display for your business or organisation, it’s not just about choosing a screen—it's about finding the right solution that meets your specific needs, goals, and environment. Whether you're in retail, hospitality, corporate settings, or public spaces, your digital signage display should effectively convey your message, capture attention, and drive engagement. So, how do you find the best display for your purposes? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice
1. Understand Your Purpose and Goals
Before diving into specifications, it's essential to identify what you want to achieve with your digital signage. Ask yourself:
What is the primary purpose of the display? Are you aiming to inform, advertise, entertain, or direct people?
What type of content will you show? Will it be static images, videos, or dynamic content that needs real-time updates?
What action do you want viewers to take? Do you want them to make a purchase, sign up for an event, or simply gain information?
Understanding these goals will help you choose a display that suits the environment and your content needs.
2. Consider Screen Size and Resolution
The size of your digital signage screen is crucial. A display that’s too small may not capture attention, while a display that’s too large might overwhelm the space or look out of place. Here are a few things to think about:
Screen Size: For a small space, a screen between 32-43 inches might suffice. For larger areas, such as storefront windows, lobbies, or high-traffic zones, you may need displays 55 inches or larger. It is possible that an ultrawide may also be the best option and is certainly worth considering.
Resolution: The resolution will depend on the level of detail you need. For most signage, 1080p (Full HD) resolution is a good starting point. However, if you need crisp, high-quality visuals for close-up viewing, 4K resolution might be more appropriate, especially for larger screens or high-end retail environments.
3. Indoor vs. Outdoor Displays
Where will your digital signage be located? This factor plays a significant role in choosing the right screen
Indoor Displays: Perfect for office spaces, retail stores, and corporate settings, these screens usually have lower brightness.
Outdoor Displays: Designed to withstand weather conditions like rain, heat, and cold, outdoor displays are built with higher brightness levels (around 2000-3000 cd/m² up to 3500 nits) and feature protective casings
4. Brightness and Viewing Conditions
The visibility of your digital signage content will often be impacted by the surrounding environment. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Indoor: If your digital signage is in a well-lit area (like a shopping mall or office), aim for a brightness of around 300-500 cd/m².
Outdoor: Outdoor signage should have significantly higher brightness to be visible in direct sunlight. Look for displays with brightness levels between 2000-3000 cd/m².
5. Orientation: Portrait vs. Landscape
Digital signage displays can be mounted in both portrait (vertical) and landscape (horizontal) orientations.
Portrait Mode: Ideal for narrow spaces, digital menu boards, or signage in retail settings where long, vertical visuals (e.g., a single product) are most effective.
Landscape Mode: Best suited for wide spaces or larger content like advertisements, videos, and presentations.
Some displays even allow you to switch between orientations, so you can display content in both portrait and landscape modes
6. Connectivity and Compatibility
How will your display communicate with your content management system (CMS) or media player?
The ability to easily connect and control your digital signage is crucial. Look for:
Wi-Fi and Ethernet Connectivity: Wireless connectivity offers more flexibility, while Ethernet ensures a stable, wired connection.
USB or HDMI Ports: For flexibility in content delivery, choose displays that support USB or HDMI input.
7. Built-in Media Players
Digital signage displays can be designed with built-in media players. Often referred to as System-on-Chip displays, these all-in-one solutions are capable of storing and playing digital signage content. When connected to cloud-based digital signage software - content management systems, like Signagelive, they can also schedule, manage and update content remotely.
8. Durability and Maintenance
The durability of your display depends on its build and the environment in which it will be used.
Vandal-proof or Robust Designs: If you’re placing your display in a high-traffic or public area, consider a display with tamper-resistant features or a robust frame.
Easy-to-Access Ports and Cooling: Displays that are easy to maintain and have adequate cooling systems are crucial to ensure longevity, especially in hot or outdoor environments.
9. Interactive Features
For businesses that want to create a more engaging and dynamic experience, interactive displays are an excellent option. These allow users to engage directly with the screen through touch or gestures. Common use cases include:
Kiosks: Where users can interact with menus, maps, or information guides.
Wayfinding Systems: In malls, airports, or large buildings to guide visitors.
Self-service Solutions: For things like ordering in restaurants or checking in at hotels.
10. Customised Digital Signage Displays
You can deliver more unique, impactful and personalised viewer experiences by customising your digital signage displays.
Consider:
Customising the shape of your screen - ultrawide screens, for example, allow for wider landscape viewing, and can seamlessly run along the length of in-store shelves, and exhibition showcases. Circular or square screens can be designed to suit specific on-site sets, and messaging.
Space-saving designs - dual-sided displays enable you to run content on both sides of the screens. The ultimate space-savers, countertop displays completely eliminate the need for any signage stands.
Embed accessories into screen designs - integrate everything from cameras and microphones to motion detectors. With these accessories, you can create interactive, personalised viewer experiences, based on the demographics of your audience. Viewers can also interact with your screens, simply by using the sound of their voice, or by approaching the displays
11. Cost and ROI
Finally, consider your budget.
Initial Cost: Evaluate the upfront investment, including the hardware and software.
Ongoing Costs: Consider the cost of content creation, software subscriptions, and potential maintenance.
ROI: How will this investment impact your business? Look for ways to use your signage to increase sales, improve customer engagement, or enhance brand awareness.
12. Support and Warranty
To ensure value for money, check that your digital signage providers offer solid customer support, warranties, and easy access to replacement parts or services.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect digital signage display means aligning your needs with the features that best serve your business goals. Whether you're seeking a sleek, high-brightness display for an outdoor advertisement or a dynamic touchscreen for an interactive retail experience, the options are abundant. By considering the environment, content, and goals, you can make an informed decision that maximizes the impact of your digital signage solution.
Ready to find your perfect display? Reach out to us today to make your digital signage vision a reality.
