Free digital signage for everyone: How to get started
How much does digital signage cost? That’s the question most business owners ask when they’re starting to plan their own signage or want to upgrade their current one. Luckily, the answer isn’t so straightforward, as there are many ways to get your brand or message out there without breaking the bank. From Free Digital Signage to promotional giveaways, here are some ways you can get start without paying thousands of dollars upfront.
What is digital signage?
Digital signage is a form of electronic display used for purposes such as displaying news, advertisements, product information, entertainment media, and other dynamic content. A basic definition of digital signage be any screen (monitor) or series of screens used to present visual information. Digital screens are often found in public places and many types can display variable text (known as electronic paper), graphics, animation, and video. Depending on their location they may also incorporate touchscreens or kiosks.
Essential equipment
Your needs will vary depending on how many screens you want and what types of content you plan to display. Digital displays typically require a server, monitor and cabling, along with software licenses. You’ll also need accessories like media players and speakers, plus Ethernet cables and power strips. So if you’re thinking about buying a free digital signage system now, take into account how much equipment—and even employees—you might need in order to make it work effectively. If your needs are small at first but could grow as your business grows, think about what additions would cost you down the road so that you can factor them into any upfront costs.
Digital Signage Software
Digital signage is big business. It’s used in hundreds of thousands of locations around the world, and it keeps getting bigger and better. Digital signs are a staple of shopping malls, convenience stores, restaurants, movie theaters, and more — helping businesses boost sales and engage customers. Unfortunately, they’re also pretty expensive — but that doesn’t mean you can’t set up your own solution at no cost.
Digital Signage Player (VLC player, file formats, etc.)
Digital signage players can play all sorts of files and you can use VLC player or convert formats. To start with Digital Signage, you will need a standard media PC that supports one of these operating systems; Windows 7/8/10, Linux, Android, or iOS on a supported device like Raspberry Pi. Download and install your preferred Digital Signage Player on your Media PC and be sure to take note of installation paths for each component, as well as default passwords.
Digital Signage Applications (streaming video, slideshow, etc.)
Digital signage is a powerful communication tool that gives businesses and organizations a way to communicate visually with their customers.Signage can have many uses, including restaurant menus, news broadcasts, custom video advertisements, weather reports and much more. Because of its visual nature, it provides businesses with an effective way to promote certain products or events while also providing customers and consumers with updates on news or information they are interest in. As technology continues to advance at an ever-increasing rate, Digital Signage has become more popular than ever as it is both simple and cost-effective. With free digital signage software like Magic Info, you can take advantage of today’s Digital Signage technology without breaking your budget.
Get your content ready
Once you identify your audience. Research their needs and wants, and figure out what they already know about a topic, it’s time to write. Create a list of topics relate to your industry or area of interest that are evergreen (ideas or information that people will find interesting year-round) and easily adaptable. This can be an invaluable tool later on if you’re ever pressed for time—or inspire by an idea in another piece of content. The last thing you want is a one-hit-wonder; it’s hard enough to keep up with demand when demand exists at all! For now, just make sure you have something in store that’s compelling enough to share over and over again.
Install the system
Like Nexcore and Scalable Display Manager (SDM), free digital signage software gives you everything you need to quickly create a complete system. The only thing left is putting it up. This is probably best left to your IT team, but if they’re not available or you’re feeling ambitious, there are plenty of tutorials available online. If you have questions about how to set it up, talk with your local Nexcore rep. They can help walk you through what will be require on your end as well as identify any unique factors that might come into play in your location. So if you’re ready to start setting up free digital signage at your establishment, contact us today.
Monitor your system remotely
If you’re using a manage service. There’s a good chance that your provider offers some level of monitoring and alerting. This gives you up-to-the-minute alerts about what’s happening on your system. For example, if something goes down or needs adjusting.You’ll be alert instantly so that you can fix it as soon as possible and minimize any impact on your users. With just an hour or two of tweaking.You can customize all these things to suit your needs. But again, does not panic! At least not yet.
Optional additions and precautions
If you are in a building with old electrical wiring.There may be questions about whether or not able to handle these screens. Make sure that your IT department is willing and able to install new electrical outlets. While HDTVs aren’t as expensive as they use to be.They’re still something you does not want taking up room in your office if you can avoid it. Check into using old screens first before buying new ones. If possible, try working out a deal with local schools or businesses that are replacing their old screens.They may just give them away rather than send them off to recycling centers.
Conclusion
Next time you’re in a professional setting, take a look around you. Chances are at least one computer or mobile device use. With all of these screens around us it might make sense to utilize them. And incorporate them into our own business strategies. Whether we’re using digital signage to sell our products or provide customers with an educational experience about our products and services.It’s an excellent way to gain new clients by using existing resources in creative ways. Learn how these companies are using their screens with these tips.And tricks from experts on how start integrating technology into your own business today!
