Digital Signage Mistakes to Avoid: How to Maximize the Impact of Your Displays

Digital signage is one of the most powerful tools businesses can use to convey information and boost brand awareness. But for new users, the best way to utilize digital signage isn’t always obvious.

In fact, even some long-time digital signage users can be prone to make simple mistakes that leave a lot of value untapped.

That’s why in this post, we’ll tell you the most common digital signage mistakes and how to avoid them. That way, you can maximize the impact of your digital signage investment.

Mistake #1: Poor Content Quality

If you want digital signage that turns heads, content is 90% of the battle.

Poor quality content is the best way to trade potential engagement for complete disinterest. Things like low-resolution images, cluttered designs, cringey fonts, and outdated information can doom your digital signage.

Invest in high-quality visuals and ensure your content is relevant, easily readable, and up-to-date. Remember, the goal is to capture attention, not just get something out there.

Tip: In order to catch and keep the attention of customers, messaging should be clear and concise. Blocks of text are easy to ignore. And regularly rotate the content on your screens to keep it fresh and engaging.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Your Audience

Digital signage is by far the most effective when it speaks directly to your audience’s needs and interests. All of your digital signage content should either address a pain point for your customers or give them some benefit.

This means knowing your audience inside and out. What are their needs and desires? What kind of content is likely to perk up their ears and capture their eyes? And what kind of image of your brand do they want to see?

Failing to understand your audience can result in content that nobody cares about.

Tip: Conducting audience research is a great way to develop a digital signage content strategy. This will help you understand their demographics, preferences, and behaviors. As a result, your digital signage messaging will be much more targeted.

Mistake #3: Poor Placement of Displays

Earlier we explained the importance of high-quality content. But even if that content is stellar, it won’t have much of an effect if it’s hidden away in some lobby corner and if it’s not at eye level.

That’s why it’s vital to avoid installing displays in locations where they are difficult to see or where foot traffic is minimal. Instead, mount screens that are in high-traffic areas or in places where people linger for extended periods of time.

You’ll get a lot more bang for your buck.

Tip: Before installing any screens you should take some time to carefully consider and plan out your installation locations. Things like the amount of foot traffic, viewing angles and distances, screen size, and lighting conditions are all important factors to think about.

Mistake #4: Information Overload

One of the most common digital signage mistakes is trying to cram as much information as possible onto your screens. We get it. It’s a great way to get information to those who need it.

But if you bombard customers with too much text and information, they will inevitably be overwhelmed. Viewers need messages that are easily readable and digestible at a glance. A cluttered display simply leads to confusion and disengagement.

Tip: Focus on a single, clear message per slide or screen. Short sentences, large fonts, and succinct messages are way more likely to hit their mark. Less is often more when it comes to effective communication.

At the end of the day, the key to successful digital signage is a combination of high-quality content, strategic screen placement, knowing your audience, and easily digestible messaging.

If you can avoid the common digital signage pitfalls mentioned above, your screens are sure to make a huge impact.