IoT & Digital Signage Transformation

Posted on: June 22nd, 2020

Internet of Things, also known as IoT, is continuing to revolutionize digital signage and maximize its use. The world has become more connected with IoT and digital signage transformation. Tech Connections are being transformed drastically.
We discuss what is digital signage and why it has become so popular in today’s age. We also look at how digital signage is transformed by IoT at present. How will it continue in the future?

What is Digital Signage Exactly?

Precisely digital signage is a form of electronic signage in which digital screens are used to display content. The screens can have technologies such as LED, LCD, projection, e-paper, or more.
These screens usually occur outside of the home for informing and inclining the audiences. Their size can be anything from small tablets to large jumbotrons, which you can find in stadiums.

Why is Digital Signage Becoming So Popular?

Digital signage has advanced rapidly in the last few years. Primarily, it is due to technological capabilities to display rich and vibrant images, and graphics, along with appealing content, has taken new heights.
Further, digital signage adoption has been boosted as costs of large high-definition displays have come down. Also, the need to inform the audiences with the desired content has arisen in most of the sectors. In a study, it was shown that 8 out of 10 customers say they entered a store because a digital sign caught their interest.
Moreover, the same research tells us the ratio of the audience gets engaged with this digital content at distinct areas, like:

83% of patients in hospitals view it during waiting.
74% of customers see the menu easily and prefer it.
93% of clients check this digital screens in shopping malls.
And much more.

This is why we are witnessing digital signage usage everywhere.

IoT & Digital Signage Transformation at Present

The capabilities of digital signage can be broadened by connecting it to the internet. Already we are witnessing IoT and digital signage transformation. For instance, companies are using them to develop employee information and identification systems. The employee simply scans through the reader, and the signage displays employee info, schedule for the day, and other info.
Another example of IoT transforming digital signage is smart city projects, which are becoming a reality globally. These projects are aimed at informing, entertaining, and securing the citizens. For example, streetlights are coming up for analyzing traffic, kiosks delivering city info.
Also, signage is displaying maps indicating roads, streets, and parking spaces. Such examples can be found in cities like New York and Paris. This is the reason they are more often being called smart cities.

Another industry where IoT is transforming digital signage is in the retail sector. Large screens connected to the internet can be found in retail locations such as shopping malls and stores. These screens deliver specific product information that customers are shopping for.
They keep them abreast of the latest news and promotions of products. The signage greets and guides them as they enter the retail location. All these help the shoppers in making informed decisions about the products they are going to purchase.
We are also finding the use of signage in restaurants, hotels, and food courts throughout the world. The signage notices easily and displays the right information to the guests and customers. This helps to reduce the supposed wait times and entices them to spend more time at the location.
These are just a few examples we discussed that can be seen at present.

How IoT & Digital Signage Transformation Would Continue in Future:

The bottom line is that IoT would continue to transform digital signage in the future. We discuss some of the ways here further to get a clear idea.

Surroundings sensed by Signage to Provide Real-Time Data

In the future, there would be more interactive signage that would sense the surroundings. For example, the screen would communicate with a sensor, which would then talk to a beacon, which in-turn would bespeak with consumers’ smartphones or smart wear. The user can use his or her personal device to share the choices with the beacon or sensor. The screen would then display relevant info. Screens would also be able to sense when it’s the rush time in retail locations. Then they would alert the employees working there on their devices.

The above example is just to show how digital signage, when connected to IoT, can be used to provide real-time data. If you want to perform time tracking, TimeDoctor can help you out.

For instance, you can use time tracking software for your remote team in this pandemic. Also, in the hospitality sector, digital signage, coupled with IoT, can connect to loyalty apps on devices of customers. It can also bring up offers suited to them. Many companies provide digital signage solutions.
Apart from that, the content to be displayed must be compelling enough to attract audiences. Keep in mind that apart from IoT coupled to signage, content also helps to make lasting impressions among the customers.

Displays Responding to Directions & Commands

There would be screens in the future that are voice-activated such as through voice-assistant. It means they can be instructed on what to do. In a company, an officer can simply tell the screen what office document to show.
The screen connected to IoT would open the document within a second. This means the screen doesn’t necessarily have to be a touchscreen. Even if it is, it can further be beneficial.

Sensors & Other Devices Connecting Digital Signage

More sensors, devices, and systems would be connected to digital signage through IoT in the future. This can be explained with a simple case in a restaurant. The display shows the menu of items available, and the top-selling item runs out.
The sensor in the fridge that is used for stocking the items realizes this. It immediately sends a message to the screen. The screen removes the item and replaces it.
Such would be the outcomes of signage coupled to IoT, and more rapid advancements are expected in the future. After all, the real beauty of digital signage lies with its ability to interact as writing.

Diverse Possibilities in Diverse Industries

Digital signage, connected with IoT, would continue to change the scenario of different sectors from retail to health to hospitality. More and more cities would fall under the category of smart cities. This would play a role in transforming the lives of the citizens. A Canadian telecommunication company is already providing IoT solutions along with digital signage. The aim is to change the face in various cities of Canada in different sectors. Such is the power of change, and this is very enticing.

Final Thoughts:

Summing up, IoT and digital signage transformation are already happening. Its usage would expand to more sectors and more countries worldwide. Have you ever interacted or made use of a digital screen that was connected to IoT? Please answer in the comments below.