What to Consider When Selecting a Digital Signage Solution: 15 Questions to Guide Your Decision
When purchasing a digital signage solution, property and facilities managers must weigh several pros and cons to ensure they make an informed decision. Understanding these factors will significantly affect the utility and efficiency of the digital signage system, contributing to improved communication and engagement within the managed properties.
Below are fifteen questions you should ask yourself before selecting a digital signage solution.
1. What is the primary purpose of the digital sign?
Understanding the main objective of your signage, whether it’s for wayfinding, information dissemination, or enhancing visitor experience, helps in selecting the right features and functionalities. Clearly defining your goals ensures the system meets your needs and maximizes its effectiveness in your property.
For example, if your goal is wayfinding, look for features like interactive maps and real-time data updates. If your purpose is for displaying information—say, about a company’s ESG efforts—ensure the system supports various content formats and video capabilities.
2. Is having an easy-to-use content management system important?
A content management system (CMS) is a software application that allows users to create, manage, and modify digital content. A CMS provides a graphical user interface to design and schedule content, making it easier to keep the information displayed current and engaging.
If you don’t think you’ll have a dedicated signage technician on your team, you’ll want to choose a solution with a user-friendly CMS that allows for easy updates and scheduling, or find a vendor who will manage the content for you. A straightforward CMS enables property managers to keep the content relevant and engaging without needing extensive technical skills or significant time investment.
3. What types of content formats are supported?
Depending on your needs, be sure to check that the digital signage system supports various content formats like images, videos, and dynamic feeds. This versatility allows you to effectively display a wide range of information, keeping the audience engaged and informed with diverse and dynamic content.
4. How is the display quality?
High-resolution displays are essential for clear and impactful visuals. The quality of the display can affect how information is perceived and understood, so investing in high-quality screens ensures that messages are delivered effectively and attractively.
High-quality displays also communicate how well your building is maintained and whether you prioritize modern, professional standards.
5. Can the system be scaled easily?
Consider whether the digital signage solution can grow with your needs. Scalability is important for futureproofing your investment, allowing you to add more screens or upgrade functionalities without replacing the entire system.
6. What are the installation and maintenance requirements?
Evaluate the installation process and ongoing maintenance needs. A system that is easy to install and maintain reduces downtime and operational costs, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective implementation. Typical maintenance includes regular software updates, occasional hardware checks, and ensuring the displays remain clean and free from damage, which helps to prolong the lifespan and performance of your digital signage solution.
7. Does it offer remote management capabilities?
Remote management allows you to control and update the signage from anywhere, which is ideal for convenience and flexibility. This feature is particularly useful for property managers overseeing multiple locations or those who need to make real-time updates.
8. How reliable is the hardware and software?
Reliability cannot be overlooked if your goal is to avoid disruptions. Choose a system from a reputable provider known for durable hardware and reliable software. Just like buying a car, you get what you pay for. Don’t rely solely on price as the determining factor. Robust solutions minimize downtime and maintenance issues, ensuring consistent performance. Look for features such as remote diagnostics, automatic updates, and comprehensive warranties.
9. Are there analytics and reporting features?
Analytics and reporting features help track engagement and effectiveness. Access to data allows you to optimize content and measure the impact of your digital signage, providing valuable insights for continuous improvement.
Digital signage can serve more than just a communication tool; it can provide actionable data on viewer interactions, peak engagement times, and content performance. This can help you refine your messaging strategy and better meet the needs of your audience.
10. What kind of support and training is provided?
Support and training help property managers master their digital signage. Adequate support ensures any issues can be promptly addressed, while training helps your team effectively utilize the system’s features. Look for providers that offer onboarding sessions, detailed user manuals, and responsive customer service to help your team stay proficient and confident in managing the digital signage.
11. What is the total cost of ownership?
Consider all costs, including initial setup, ongoing maintenance, and potential upgrades. Understanding the total cost of ownership helps in budgeting and ensures the solution is cost-effective in the long term. Also, compare the cost over the lifetime of the system. For example, a screen that initially costs less but needs replacement in 3 years instead of lasting 8 years may appear more cost-effective initially but may not end up being so in the long run.
12. How secure is the digital signage system?
Security is vital to protect your content and system from unauthorized access. Without proper protection, your digital signage could be hacked, leading to unauthorized messages being displayed or sensitive information being compromised.
Ensure the solution has robust security measures to safeguard against potential threats and breaches. Look for features like encrypted data transmission, secure user authentication, and regular security updates.
13. Can the signage integrate with other systems?
Integration with other systems, such as emergency alerts or building management systems, enhances the functionality of your digital signage. Seamless integration can improve overall efficiency and responsiveness as well.
14. Is the signage customizable?
Customizability allows the signage to match your property’s branding and specific needs. A customizable solution ensures that the digital signage fits seamlessly into your environment and meets your unique requirements (including those of your tenants).
15. How environmentally friendly is the digital signage?
Consider the energy efficiency and environmental impact of the signage. Energy-efficient solutions can reduce operational costs and support your property’s sustainability goals. Look for displays that consume less power, have longer lifespans, and are made from eco-friendly materials. This not only helps lower your utility bills but also contributes to a greener environment and aligns with eco-conscious values and regulations.
youRhere Offers Digital Signage Solutions in North America
Choosing the right digital signage solution requires careful consideration of these factors. For expert advice and high-quality digital signage solutions tailored to your property management needs, contact youRhere. Boost your property’s communication and engagement with our innovative solutions today.