Digital Signage may be something new, but is it more effective than traditional signage? Well, that depends on how it’s being used. Traditional signs of the past were an original option. Posters, banners, decals were an initial choice and still are in use. Now, technical innovations have made the use of digital signage possible. So, which is more effective?
Sign Utilization
A company’s sign brings brand awareness to light for different purposes. Some signs are in use for simple embellishment or decorative effects to an area. Others have specific purposes. You’ll need to deal with the size of the sign and its location and the purpose it serves. If you want the best sign for your business, whether digital or traditional, think about the conditions under which you want to use the sign.
A Sign’s Purpose
Again, the purpose of your sign is the biggest consideration when deciding whether to go digital or use a printed sign version. If you’re just looking for something to identify or designate a specific spot, a traditional sign or poster is the best choice. A digital sign’s display, however, can capitalize on specific points, such as fluctuating dates and times and other information that changes regularly. The best use of a sign is not always straightforward. The options for either style at particular times may be the best choice. Definitely plan your sign’s purpose first and then think about any factors involved that would help you make the choice between a digital or printed sign.
Sizes and Shapes
Signs obviously come in all sizes and shapes and the proportions of the area where the sign is to go will affect whether you use a digital or more traditional sign. Many signs either go across a building’s side or go around doors and other places, so you’ll need room to accommodate most any sign.
You can make a print sign in just about any shape or size to use the space. Though digital signs are available in many lengths and widths, you’ll have restrictions as they are almost strictly rectangular, which makes them less versatile; whereas more traditional signs are adaptable to placement almost anywhere. A digital sign works better on flat surfaces and in open spaces. Carefully choose a sign that goes in the space and makes an impact.
Location Importance
Not only do you have to take the size of a space for your sign into consideration, but you also have to pinpoint the actual location for its placement, and that’s important. Either use digital or print signs can be on the exterior or interior of an area and a best location option for either can be affected by different aspects of that location.
Power Availability
Think about whether a power source is available for a digital sign. Though digital signs are striking to look at, a lack of power could be a problem, but most electrical outlets are fairly easy to find to power up a digital sign. There are other times that a print sign is a better fit, particularly when there are no outlets to be found in the area where the sign is to go.
Digital Reliability
In addition to a power source with digital signage, you’ll need supplementary technology that usually includes a system that manages the sign’s content, a Wi-Fi network and the screen itself. With all that in mind, watch for malfunctioning quirks with a digital display. The sign can abruptly stop working for a small period of time, so you’ll want to learn how to deal with the technological aspects so your sign runs well both day and night.
Project Costs
Digital displays can be expensive. The initial investment can be costly, but once you install the sign, it displays almost anything you want. You can incorporate advertisements, events, announcements and other information that include day-to-day changes. Cost becomes an important element with a digital sign, so selecting just the right design helps to offset the initial costs.
With a print sign, the costs are affordable and there usually isn’t ongoing maintenance or changes with them. If you make changes or replacements, they can be costly, particularly if you decide to either rebrand your product or start a new product. You’ll need fresh signs and the expenses will be greater.
A print sign is usually the most dependable option as its not complicated in design and is affordable. Once you install it, the sign is lasting and will remain that way until you replace it with something else or remove it.
Digital Versatility
Digital signage is versatile. You can feature most anything on the screen or even change what’s on it to whatever you want. Also, you can interchange the graphics to feature your latest sale. When you’re not getting the sales results you want, you can easily change that part too. You can reach interested people through digital signage in so many ways. Even touch screens present a back and forth or interactive experience.
Traditional print signs are stationary, which makes them suitable for any content that is in a more permanent state. Since you can easily transport traditional signs, they are versatile too. Whether its banners, banner stands that are movable, displays for trade shows or print signs, they are all easy to get from one place to another and are useful for unique events.
Integrating Digital and Traditional Signage
Digital signage definitely allows you to represent your brand in many ways, while traditional signage remains in play as well for today’s marketing. When choosing purposeful and effective signs for every circumstance, you may need to merge both print and digital in your sign presentations. Your grasp of both and their positive and negative features will enable you to choose the most suitable alternative to achieve your purpose and eventual outcome.
Whether you choose digital signage or something more traditional, you’ll want the input of the experts to help you develop either. The professionals with Tupp Signs will help you find what’s right for your brand and business. With all the options in both digital and traditional signage, you can find a happy medium with one or the other, or both. You’ll be pleased with what they offer. Contact Tupp today at 302-322-1600.