What is it?
Digital signage, also known as dynamic signage or electronic signage, refers to the use of digital displays to communicate information, advertisements, or entertainment to a target audience. It has become a ubiquitous part of modern marketing and communication strategies, but the history of digital signage dates back to the early days of television.
The first signs of digital signage emerged in the late 1970s when closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems began to be used to display advertisements in stores and other public spaces. These early systems used video tapes or live broadcasts to display content on CRT monitors.
However, the technology was limited in its capabilities, and the displays were often low-resolution and unreliable. It wasn’t until the late 1990s that digital signage began to take off in a meaningful way, thanks to the rise of the internet and advances in display technology.
Impress me…
One of the first notable examples of digital signage was the Nasdaq MarketSite display in New York City’s Times Square. The seven-story display was unveiled in 1999 and used LED technology to display real-time stock prices, news, and advertisements.
Around the same time, companies began experimenting with using digital signage for advertising and marketing purposes. Retailers and other businesses saw the potential to use digital displays to promote products, display promotions, and provide information to customers in a more engaging way than traditional static signage.
Digital signage - as we know it today
The early 2000s saw the rise of digital signage networks, which allowed businesses to manage multiple displays remotely and schedule content to be displayed at specific times. This made it easier for companies to manage their digital signage efforts and provided a more seamless experience for customers.
Today, digital signage has become a staple of modern marketing and communication strategies. It can be found in a wide range of settings, from retail stores and restaurants to airports and train stations. The technology has advanced significantly in recent years, with displays offering high resolution, interactivity, and even artificial intelligence-powered personalization.
In addition to marketing and advertising, digital signage is also used for information dissemination, entertainment, and wayfinding. It has become an integral part of modern communication, providing businesses and organizations with a versatile and effective way to reach their target audiences.
In conclusion, digital signage has come a long way since its early days as a CCTV-based system. Its evolution has been driven by advances in technology, the internet, and changing consumer preferences. Today, it is a powerful tool for businesses and organizations looking to engage with their customers and communicate more effectively.