What is digital signage?
Everything you need to know about digital signage: what it is, how it works, and how to use it effectively.
Definition of digital signage
Digital signage is a powerful way to inform and activate a specific target audience. With digital displays and digital signage software like Lumicast, you can easily show relevant content to the right people.
The terms digital signage and narrowcasting are sometimes used interchangeably. Digital signage refers to the technology (digital displays), while narrowcasting focuses on targeted communication through these displays.
Difference between digital signage and broadcasting
Broadcasting targets a broad audience (like TV and radio), while digital signage serves a specific target audience with tailored content. This makes digital signage ideal for internal communication, customer experience, and marketing.
Applications of digital signage
Digital signage is used in many sectors. From waiting rooms to retail stores: wherever targeted communication is needed, digital signage offers a solution.
Sectors that benefit from digital signage
Healthcare
- Display important health information
- Give staff real-time updates
- Use digital wayfinding
Retail
- Create urgency and increase revenue
- Improve customer experience
- Manage displays across multiple locations
Transport & Logistics
- Show current departure and arrival times
- Motivate employees with internal updates
- Give travelers real-time traffic and weather information
Education
- Display school schedules (e.g., via Zermelo)
- Share news and events
- Use digital boards during open days
Digital signage software: how does it work?
Good digital signage software offers flexibility in content types and management. With Lumicast you can easily:
- Display photos and videos for visual impact
- Integrate apps (like social media feeds)
- Embed websites to show real-time info
- Create dynamic pages with an intuitive editor
Technical aspects of digital signage
Choosing the right hardware
Digital signage works with two important components:
- The software (like Lumicast)
- The hardware (the display + player)
You can choose from:
- SoC displays (like Samsung and LG): cheaper and easy to install
- External players (e.g., a Raspberry Pi or Windows PC): more powerful and flexible
Installing digital signage software
- Download the Lumicast Player
- Enter the pairing code via the webapp
- Manage and schedule your content remotely
Step-by-step: getting started with digital signage
1
Define goals
Do you want to increase brand awareness, inform customers, or boost sales? Set clear objectives.
2
Identify target audience
Who are your viewers? Tailor your content to their interests and behavior.
3
Create content
Use engaging images, videos, and interactive content to convey your message.
4
Schedule content
Set up playlists and campaigns for optimal display.
5
Choose the right hardware
Select displays and players that fit your location and needs.
6
Go live & optimize
Test your system and keep improving your content and strategy.
The future of digital signage
Digital signage is growing rapidly and becoming more interactive. Some trends:
- Automatic updates (e.g., traffic information or news feeds)
- Social media integration (show LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter feeds)
- Sustainable hardware solutions (reuse and recycling)
- Interactive displays (think touchscreens and check-in kiosks)
- Advanced content management (better scheduling and team collaboration)
Start with digital signage today
Whether you want to use digital signage for internal communication, marketing, or customer experience: Lumicast has everything you need.
- User-friendly software
- Powerful content tools
- Flexible management from any location