Digital signage is no longer just for large businesses with large budgets. Thanks to the availability of user-friendly tools and cheap hardware, the creation of do-it-Yourself digital signage is now also an achievable and expensive way to do digital signage for small businesses, startups, and even individuals. Whether you run a restaurant, retail shop, or event, for more customer engagement and visibility, they need not do so professionally. DIY digital signage can do that for you.
What is DIY digital signage?
DIY digital signage is setting up and all hands-on-deck managing your own digital displays without the expense of professional services. Combining a few pieces of hardware, some software, and a little bit of imagination, you can craft and control eye-popping screens to show off menus, promotions, and such.
Why should you go DIY with digital signage?
1. Cost Savings:
Instead of going through expensive custom solutions, get affordable TVs, monitors, or tablets paired up with low-cost or free software.
2. Flexibility:
Without waiting for external vendors, you have the liberty to customize layouts, content, schedules, and more to perfectly fit your needs.
3. Control:
Cloud-based tools allow you to make instant updates and changes whenever required.
4. Scalability:
Go from one screen and grow as your business expands while keeping costs down.
How to Create DIY Digital Signage
1. Choose Your Hardware
You’ll need a display screen and a media player to get started.
- Display Options:
- Smart TVs
- Computer monitors
- Tablets or iPads
- Media Players (if your display isn’t “smart”):
- Google Chromecast
- Amazon Fire Stick
- Raspberry Pi
2. Select Your Software
Digital signage software allows you to design and manage the content displayed on your screens. Popular options include:
- Free Tools: Canva (for visuals), PowerPoint, or Google Slides.
- Dedicated Platforms:
- ScreenCloud: cloud-based with scheduling features.
- XOGO: Affordable, beginner-friendly software.
- NoviSign: Perfect for small businesses with easy-to-use templates.
3. Create Your Content
The content displayed on your signage is the most critical part. Focus on:
- High-Quality Visuals: Use professional photos or videos.
- Clear Messaging: Highlight promotions, products, or events concisely.
- Branding: Incorporate your logo, colors, and fonts for consistency.
- Animations and Videos: Use motion to grab attention, but keep it simple to avoid distractions.
4. Set Up Your System
- Connect your media player or smart device to the display screen.
- Upload your content to your chosen software and schedule it for display.
- Test the setup to ensure smooth playback and readability.
Tips for Effective DIY Digital Signage
- Design for Readability: Use large fonts and contrasting colors to ensure text is legible from a distance.
- Keep It Simple: Avoid overcrowding your screen; focus on one key message per slide.
- Update Regularly: Keep content fresh and relevant to maintain viewer interest.
- Leverage Timing: Schedule different content for different times of the day (e.g., breakfast menu in the morning, lunch specials in the afternoon).
Common DIY Digital Signage Applications
- Restaurants and Cafes:
Display menus, daily specials, and promotions. - Retail Stores:
Highlight discounts, new arrivals, and loyalty programs. - Gyms and fitness centers:
Show workout schedules, membership deals, or motivational videos. - Events and Conferences:
Use signage for directional guidance, speaker schedules, or live updates.
Conclusion
If you want to boost your business’s marketing and communication efforts without breaking the bank, do-it yourself digital signage is exactly what you are looking for. You can also hire a professional renderer company and find a solution that will offer you professional-quality displays, which will help you gain more customers. The possibilities are endless, with a little effort and a little creativity.
