Digital signage, which is also sometimes called dynamic signage, is a form of slivercasting. Slivercasting is basically the transmission of visual (and often audio visual) advertising or informational content to a specific niche audience or demographic. A digital sign usually consists of a computer or playback device connected to a bright LCD or plasma display.
Digital signage is not just used for promotional and advertising purposes, although it is particularly effective advertising medium. Schools, libraries, hospitals and many other public venues have begun to take advantage of the power of digital signage. Interactive kiosks have in many instances replaced those “you are here” maps that used to be found in malls and other large shopping venues. Now the directionally challenged can not only get guided audio visual directions that they might possibly understand, but advertisers can subject them to a couple of quick commercials in the hope that the lost can be redirected right to their store instead. Similar kiosks are also found increasingly in train stations, airports and bus stations.
Digital signage is such a great way to display any kind of information, for advertising purposes or not, because the information it displays can be updated in a matter of seconds, no ladder climbing, no site visits. An entire hospital directory to be displayed on a digital signage system can be kept up to date 24 hours a day, seven days a week by just one or two people. The average digital signage system just needs to be connected to a reliable ISP to be updated at any time.
The initial set up costs associated with a digital signage system vary wildly depending on the type of system that is being installed. Such a system can be as simple as a small LCD screen display in the local restaurant displaying tonight’s specials and mouth watering images of the food within the establishment. This kind of digital signage system is relatively inexpensive, and usually pays for itself in the form of increased “foot traffic” coming in from the cold within a short period of time. Or digital signage systems can be huge and complicated. If you have been to a major music concert recently you may have noticed how many artists are not only using big screens to broadcast images of the live action on the stage, but also multiple adverts for their latest album or merchandise that is conveniently available in the lobby.