We’ve got an itch. And we really need to scratch it. There are more than a few digital signage myths and misconceptions out there, and we want to dispel them. So we will.
Don’t get us wrong, this isn’t an angry rant. We just feel that it’s about time to set the record straight for those of you out there who are thinking about using digital signage, are looking for a platform or solution to use, or are thinking of becoming a reseller. Because what we have to say affects everyone.
Digital signage myths
Let’s face it, even though retail digital signage has a strong presence in the sector as a cutting-edge advertising and promotional tool, wider usage of digital displays across other industries remains in an embryonic stage. Technology and usage cases are evolving at a rapid pace.
With this in mind, it’s logical that there may be myths and misconceptions. We’ve identified those which we believe are the main ones, so without further ado, have a look and follow the path to enlightenment. Because digital signage is here to stay, and has remarkable ROI usage cases across industries as varied as education and transportation, to retail and office environments – and many more places you haven’t thought of yet.
Myth 1: Digital signage is difficult to install and set up
No, no, and no again. That’s one of the digital signage myths, right there. In fact, it’s easier than ever to get a digital signage solution up and running. And that means from a simple single-screen activation to a network of 1,000 displays. While the cost of hardware, including displays and peripherals has gone down significantly, solutions have also become web-based. Just like Yodeck. So, no need for expensive set-up costs or complicated software to install. If you are still a bit tentative about installing digital signage yourself, you can always enlist the help of a reseller, systems integrator or the platform suppliers themselves. We, for one, are always on hand to support our customers with top-notch tech support.
Myth 2: It’s expensive to create content
Again, most people assume that you have to pay huge sums of money to graphic designers to make beautiful, professional-looking content. But in most cases, a freelance designer can be given a simple brief and take inspiration from existing graphical models on your website or sales materials to create great digital signage templates for a lower fee. It really depends on your industry and what you want your screens to show. If you’re on a budget, you can also create your own content. Most applications and solutions have drag-and-drop interfaces and easy-to-use systems which allow you to create unique display layouts. You can use your uploaded media or ready-to-use apps, as well as all kinds of files, from PowerPoint and pdf to plain web pages.
Myth 3: Digital signage is too expensive
Earlier, we touched on the declining cost of hardware like HD TV screens. But that’s not all. There’s also the media player market, which has exploded in recent years with an array of competitive options. The advent of the revolutionary Raspberry Pi also means you can get yourself a powerful player – like the Yodeck Player for free as part of an all-inclusive monthly subscription for a software service. This means that, more often than not, your only outlay is the initial investment in the TV screen(s), and the monthly subscription for the software.
Myth 4: Changing content is difficult and time-consuming
Perhaps the biggest myth of all. When people hear the words digital, they immediately think they will need to hire or enlist a freelance IT expert. to help them not only to set it up but also to modify content, scheduling, etc. Not true! As long as you are using a user-friendly content management platform (*cough, like ours), then any changes should only take a few minutes. TIP: have a specialist build your templates at the start of a project. This way, you should have everything you need so that any changes can be made by one of your in-house staff who has been trained. Your screen network itself can be remotely managed from any device with an internet connection – be it a desktop PC, laptop, tablet or mobile phone.
Myth 5: The impact on your audience and ROI is minimal
This is something that comes about when there’s no planning put into how your digital signage will be used. Like anything, if you don’t plan correctly, you will not get the results you want. Both ROI-wise and in terms of impact. So, ensure you clearly define the goals of your screens. After that, consider display placement, templates, and the needs and interests of your target audience. If you do that, you will reap only benefits. TIP: always double-check the duration of your animations and/or transitions, messages, etc to make sure you get the results you want.
Myth 6: It’s only really useful for retail
Nope. This is another of the more recent digital signage myths to emerge. Although retail has been the ‘champion’ of digital signage from day one, we are seeing usage scenarios in a wide range of industries. From restaurants, bars and cafes, and entertainment outlets like casinos and cinemas, to offices and transport, digital signage is pretty much everywhere.
Digital signage myths…busted
As you can see, digital signage just keeps getting easier, more cost-effective and offers greater value for money in terms of ROI. Now it’s your turn. Is there anything that you think we have missed off this list that other readers may want to know about? If so, please feel free to get in touch and let us know. Until then, we’ll keep busting those digital signage myths.