As the world becomes more and more digitized, you can bet that we will see a lot less of those old-fashioned signs. While cabinet signs and pylon signs are unlikely to disappear, you can definitely expect to see more digital signage in the years to come. However, such advancements will mean nothing if they are not accompanied by other innovations. New technology isn’t worth much unless it is combined with creativity and utility. With those principles in mind, let’s discuss the latest trends in digital signage.
AI Customization
The combination of AI technology with digital signage does present some interesting possibilities. Of course, you don’t want to go too far with this kind of thing because a lot of people fear AI. So, for instance, if you had an AI that would scan a customer’s fingerprint and show them customized material, that would probably scare people. However, there are much more subtle ways that this tech can be implemented.
For instance, you might have an AI combined with a touchscreen merchandise catalog. By looking at the items they have already viewed, the AI could determine what items they are likely to want. Thus, you can save them some time. As another possibility, you could have the AI show different displays when larger numbers of people are nearby.
Interactive Signs
There was a time when touch screens were considered valuable and high-tech. These days, however, they have become a lot cheaper and more accessible. Thus, now that the telephone has been converted into a touch screen device, it is no surprise that many signs are following the trend. Obviously, these signs must be low to the ground and relatively small (to enable access), but that isn’t a huge disadvantage.
A lot of restaurants have been experimenting with interactive menus, and they seem to be pretty popular. They remove the need for traditional wait staff and save time in the process. Some of them will also provide games, trivia, and other amusements so that the customer can occupy themselves while they wait. Interactive catalogs are another obvious usage, and helpful tips/information can also be incorporated. For instance, some grocery stores now have kiosks that provide many different recipes.
Live-Streaming
Many companies have Youtube channels, of course. They usually upload videos that are related to their products, allowing customers to get more information about them. These can be very helpful, but there is a way to make those videos even more helpful to your potential customers. You can simply live-stream content to your digital sign. Obviously, it needs a large screen for this to be practical or worthwhile. Since most live-streaming is done over social media of one kind or another, you can also incorporate kiosks that interact with those accounts.
Hologram Projection
Here is an extremely futuristic idea: Instead of having a sign, why not have an interactive hologram? For that matter, even a non-interactive hologram would have a lot of customer appeal. These things naturally fascinate people for several reasons. First, people cannot always tell a hologram from the real thing (at least, not at first). Thus, some people will approach just to see if the image is real.
Another reason is the fact that people don’t see high-quality holograms too often. There is still a certain novelty to the whole thing, and that always translates to high customer interest. With small hologram projectors being cheaper than ever, we think this idea needs to be investigated more thoroughly.
Diversionary Usage
We touched on this idea earlier, but it deserves a little more attention. Your signs can double as amusement devices that help to keep your customers happy. If your business model involves the customer waiting for more than a few minutes, people will probably appreciate a nice time-killing snippet of entertainment. This could be something as simple as an internet radio player. Talk radio of a generic nature can serve as a great distraction. Obviously, videos of all sorts can also be used. Games are another option, or you might want to create an interactive series of menus. These will allow the customer to explore facts and information that is related to your services.
Conclusion
Digital signage is truly the future, although not all businesses will be able to jump on board. Obviously, the first ones to deploy these new ideas will be the first ones to reap the rewards. Although there are some cost issues and technical issues to tweak, digital signs are already becoming widespread. There is every reason to believe that trend will continue. If you are looking for companies that make business signs, or if you are simply asking: “What are the best business sign companies near me?”, then we would advise you to call Tupp Signs at 302-322-1600.