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Let’s Take Digital Signage Outdoors

Outdoor digital signs look great and can attract a lot of eyeballs; after all, that’s what they’re there for. But before you plunge in and take digital signage outdoors, there are a couple of things you should consider.

The Benefits

Outdoor digital signage is a powerful communications tool that engages audiences (potential customers) and saves on operational costs (like printing and compliance).

It can be visually exciting in places where you can’t normally focus your customer’s attention. Add video or social media content as well as real-time scheduling, and you have the opportunity for truly meaningful interaction. 

The Purpose

Deciding what you want from your outdoor screen will help you decide what type of screen is right for you. Ask yourself what sort of content will you be running, how complex will it be, and do you want customers to engage with that content directly?

LCD are great for dynamic brand messaging with fine, detailed artwork. There are limitations about size, scale and brightness. LED screens can be significantly brighter and more flexible (do you need to wrap your display around the side of a building? No problem). Touch screens offer the ability for customers to interact directly with your content (which is ideal for way-finding, for instance).

The Challenges

Location is the most obvious challenge. You’ll need placement that meets the following requirements:

  • VISIBILITY – can customers see the screen, are they able to engage with its content?
  • BRIGHTNESS – is it bright enough for them to read in even brighter, direct sunlight?
  • WEATHER – an IP rated enclosure increases safety by managing rain, snow, dust, heat and bugs.
  • TAMPER PROOF – accidents happen. Your display will require strong housing to mitigate damage or vandalism

You must also consider power and data – can you get these services to your ideal location, safely and efficiently?

What’s next?

In short, taking digital signage outdoors significantly increases your ability to reach customers in new and exciting ways. It allows you to expand your network and take your marketing into new territory.

If you’re ready to talk to someone about your plans, ask us about a free demo device and give digital signage a go on site.