Whether you’ve never heard of it, have subliminally started to notice screens being used in more inventive ways when you’re out and about, or are actively shopping around, there’s no escaping the fact that digital signage is quickly becoming a key tool in business communications. From being used to welcome visitors in reception areas to quick deployment for sharing company updates across office locations, we’re seeing growing numbers of businesses move away from static posters or hard-to-manage screen displays to more flexible and cloud-managed solutions.
Digital signage might even feel like a bit of a buzzword or techy trend that everyone is talking about, without always being clear on how it works or whether it’s worth investing in or upgrading. However, the reality is that you’re probably already dealing with the frustrations that digital signage can solve, like relying on time-consuming manual processes to share key messages and updates. This means that, if you’re looking to modernise the way your organisation shares information, digital signage could definitely be the solution.
To help you understand why this technology is much more than a temporary trend and actually a highly scalable and beneficial communications upgrade for any business, we have created this complete guide to what digital signage is, how it works, and whether it’s the right fit for you.
Digital Signage Explained
So, let us answer the burning question: what actually is digital signage? In essence, digital signage is a network of screens or displays that dynamically share visual content across one or multiple locations. Unlike traditional display methods like printed posters or manually updated noticeboards, it allows businesses to manage and update content through a cloud-based platform. It’s also a significant upgrade for organisations already using digital displays but updating them manually through USB sticks. All content runs through the cloud and can be deployed entirely remotely.
The displays themselves can vary significantly, from large-format screens or outdoor displays to smaller and simpler screens for meeting room signage, internal comms, or menu boards. This versatility is also incredibly scalable. New screens can be installed and then linked to the cloud so that they can immediately become part of your wider, centrally managed digital signage ecosystem.
How Does Digital Signage Work?
The biggest advantage of digital signage is its flexibility. Content can be updated instantly or scheduled in advance, and rolled out across multiple displays without physical access to the screens required. This is possible because everything is managed centrally through cloud-based platforms, which act as a hub for all connected displays.
At Agile Comms, the cloud-based digital signage platform we utilise is NowSignage, which allows you to upload content, schedule updates, create playlists, and manage different locations from an easy-to-use dashboard. This means that screens can be updated remotely in real time, whether that’s a single reception display or signage across nationwide office locations.
The type of content that can be displayed via digital signage is incredibly flexible, too. NowSignage allows for the display of simple notices, all the way through to social media feeds and promotional videos.
Where To Use Digital Signage
One of the reasons why digital signage has become so popular, and why we think it’s here to stay, is that it can be used almost anywhere. All businesses have some kind of need to share information clearly and consistently, and digital signage can achieve this, both internally and externally.
For external comms, we’re seeing digital signage deployed in receptions, hospitality venues, public spaces, and retail areas to welcome visitors, share offers and promotions, and replace static posters. Internally, businesses are using digital signage to really increase efficiency, sharing updates, staff communications, and health and safety information, and much more.
Digital signage is even becoming increasingly common within meeting spaces and collaboration areas, as screens outside meeting rooms and Teams Rooms video conferencing spaces can display room availability and booking schedules.
Getting Started
If you’re relying on static displays or tearing your hair out over manual screen updates, digital signage undoubtedly provides a significant and scalable upgrade. The key is then choosing a solution that fits both your environment and the way your organisation communicates.
At Agile Comms, we can specify, install and support digital signage solutions of all scales. Whether you’ve never had digital signage before or are upgrading existing displays, our expert team can walk you through the entire process. We’ll work closely with you and deploy solutions built around flexibility and ease of management, with ongoing support and maintenance available to help keep things running smoothly without unnecessary complexity.
To find out more about our digital signage solutions, discuss your requirements, and get a demo, please get in touch with us today.
