datmedia insight and expertise:

Better Connection Means Better Connections

Real time messaging keeps customers and staff better informed - it improves the bottom line.

Old information is worthless. If you want to connect with people, it’s vital that messages are always on and always up to date. You can’t afford to be one of those businesses so focused on placement that it overlooks crucial issues. Notably digital signage connectivity, security and compliance.

Consider this

There are man things to consider when planning a digital signage or kiosk deployment. Think about the number of displays you want, the types of displays and their location. Likewise think about installation, shop-fitting, budget. Here are some other considerations that are just as important.

Connectivity

Without reliable, ‘always-on’ digital signage connectivity, your smart network quickly becomes a group of dumb screens. To ensure the network is functioning properly and your messaging strategy is always up to date, make use of all the technology available to you. For example, a wired line can provide a primary connection with failover to a second wired connection or a 5G connection. Most importantly, network design needs to be thoughtful. It should always place 4 or 5G modems where they get the best signal then connect devices by ethernet rather than WiFi.

Hardware

Indoor locations can challenge network design where it’s essential to provide a quality signal in dense buildings. Obstructions like walls and pillars don’t make it easy. A trend toward outdoor settings (such as fairs or pop-up stores) also requires reliable connectivity as well as using ruggedized, fit-for-purpose hardware.

Security

The larger your network, the greater the opportunity for cyber-attack. Therefore routers that support digital connections must be “secure by design” with built-in security that’s thoroughly tested. It should manage multiple levels, from secure boot to encryption and authentication of passwords and data.

Device management

As data travels between applications and devices, you need to integrate a management solution. One that monitors data communication between devices and quickly identifies potential issues and cybersecurity threats.

Cost

Above all, always evaluate the full setup costs before starting your deployment. With digital signage and kiosks, the costs of operations and ownership can be complex. It spans hardware, software, connectivity, deployment, management applications, security monitoring and support staff. That’s a lot to think about.

Like what you hear?

If you would value some guidance on best practices to ensure good digital signage connectivity, please get in touch. Ask about a free demo device so you can trial digital signage at your own site, in your own time. We’re ready to help support you with digital signage that fits.