Digital signage allows for the display of multimedia content on screens. It's an essential tool within Point-of-Sale (POS) advertising. Digital displays capture 75% of people's attention, compared to 44% for static displays. Given the market's success, there's a wide range of software available. Are you wondering what possibilities digital signage offers? How do you choose the software that best suits your communication needs? Here, we'll examine the criteria to consider when making your selection.
What is digital signage?
Digital signage is a communication tool that refers to an interactive digital system for displaying audiovisual content. Digital displays are primarily used in the retail sector : stores, boutiques, supermarkets, pharmacies, and shopping centers. They are also used by businesses, restaurants, tourism, hotels, and the medical field.
To set up a digital signage system, several elements are necessary:
- a communication medium: large format full-HD LED screen, interactive touch kiosk, totem, tablet, etc.
- a computer connected to the Internet or the local network
- a "player" box that acts as an intermediary between the computer and the storage device
- a digital signage software
What are the advantages of digital signage?
- Broadcast an indoor or outdoor message
- To convey an informative or advertising message
- React in real time and modify content at the last minute
- Enrich the user experience in an interactive way
- Save on paper display costs
- Create a modern, attractive and innovative brand image
- "Capturing attention and driving sales" - A favorite
- Keeping visitors waiting in the reception hall
How to choose the right software?
To fully utilize a storefront display, digital signage software is essential! This type of software can be SaaS or on-premise . With SaaS, no software installation is required; everything is done online. This is the solution chosen by the majority of users. With on-premise, the software is installed on a server belonging to the organization. This is the solution chosen by large corporations and multinational companies.
The software can be free or paid. Free software has very basic features and is only suitable for a waiting room or a small business (restaurant, pharmacy, etc.). Paid software offers more features in terms of customization, scheduling, and targeting.
Want to learn more about free digital signage software? Discover 5 free software options !
Criteria to consider when choosing paid software :
- Accepted format types (video, image)
- the presence of widgets linked to RSS feeds (weather, news, social networks)
- the presence of customizable pre-recorded templates
- Programming options, playlist creation
- the possibility of centralized remote management
- the quality of the provider's support and customer service
- software security
Digital signage has very promising potential and stands out as an excellent tool in the point-of-sale advertising catalog. Its use has become simple and accessible to everyone. Given the wide range of solutions available, it's essential to take the time to choose not just the best software, but the software best suited to your needs.
