Marketing communication has evolved dramatically in terms of presentation and customer experience since the so-called “Mad Men” era, triggered by mass advertising. And with the advent of digital signage, the paradigm has shifted from advertising to a personalized and engaging customer experience. The focus is on getting the customer’s attention and then building loyalty. More and more companies are using the latest digital signage technologies to inform, engage and entertain their customers. As a result, they are constantly striving to create compelling content.
However, even the most compelling content requires digital devices to be delivered safely, reliably, and affordably. That’s why choosing the right media player for digital signage is one of the most important aspects of the digital media puzzle. The latest line of media players offers an even more complete experience. Here are some of the key trends in this area
Real-time content delivery
The integration of rich media and real-time streaming content creates a dynamic digital experience. Digital signage technology serves as a presentation platform and is ideal for sharing immersive content on integrated graphical devices over IP. From streaming video to audio content, there are many possibilities in this area. Modern media players can act as IP streaming servers and stream 4K (UHD) content directly to a presentation screen or video wall. These easily scalable displays are suitable for training, entertainment, education, and promoting products and services in an engaging and impactful way.
Enhanced overall multimedia experience
Digital marketers and advertisers often need ways to increase the relevance of their content, and “sticky” content is a proven technique that addresses this need. In the context of digital signage, media players play an important role in providing useful and relevant information at a given time, such as locations and events, via widgets. In a ski resort, for example, digital signage placed next to waiting lifts can inform about specific weather conditions at peak times. Or, in a warm and inviting bar, a screen could indicate that “from 3 to 6 p.m., your favorite beer is half price.” Presentations on such “sticky” screens can allow for better communication because they are audience-facing. When looking for a media player for digital signage, look for a device that supports widget and app technology.
Cloud deployment and security
Until now, replacing SD (memory) cards in digital signage media players has been the most common technology for updating media playlists. SD cards are relatively inexpensive, easy to copy to multiple locations, and reliable. Unfortunately, updating media players by replacing SD cards is much less convenient than sending VHS tapes, as it was 20 years ago. Today there are more efficient ways to do this. The best media players for digital signage use ubiquitous cloud technology, which allows for secure, efficient, and immediately scalable deployment. These cloud-based networks are overcoming significant challenges in content delivery and security. A result is a new approach to digital signage that is becoming increasingly important to the industry. As a result, businesses can benefit from greater visibility, cost savings, and reduced maintenance costs for their digital signage systems.
The convenience of mobile devices
When looking for the latest media players for digital signage, don’t forget to include mobile interactivity in your needs. By integrating NFC technology and beacons into these systems, retailers can improve interaction with existing and potential customers. Two-way communication between media companies and customers via mobile devices allows for personalized messages to be sent to users. This targeted approach has improved the overall experience and maximized the effectiveness of digital signage technology. In fact, this technology could make the site an important marketing element. And reduce the annoyance of a flood of unsolicited ads and messages. The right incentives can also help encourage customer engagement, drive social media conversation, and ultimately improve the company’s reputation if they are relevant to the company’s goals.
Advertising on digital signage media players
Advertising content on media players is updated daily, which can be a daunting task for media operators. If this is the primary reason for using digital signage, it is important to find a software system that makes it easy to tag content and assign it to media players. Cloud-based media players for digital signage make it very easy to do all this. Currently, the best systems are those that are controlled by a web browser. It should be possible to have multiple zones and assign administrative rights to them. It should support nested playlists, triggered by external inputs such as weather, traffic conditions, inventory, and other variables. These scheduled, triggered ads provide relevant, targeted content to specific target groups.
These are just a few of the trends that will shape the future of the industry. Yes, there are still elements of the Wild West in digital signage. So beware of exorbitant prices that promise you the world for free, outdated technology. And poor quality technology that will turn your screen blue and your face red. When looking for a media player for digital signage, it’s best to choose a system that meets your needs. And makes sense from a business perspective, not a consumer perspective.
About Author
The author has completed his education in marketing and started his career as a digital marketer. He is a content writer by profession. He writes about digital signage solutions for businesses like smd screens in Pakistan
