Evidence shows how effective digital signage is to increase sales, improve communications, and modernize organizations. More companies are turning to digital signage solutions and evaluating the pricing models that best suit their objectives and budgets.
However, for those relatively new to digital signage, developing the right solution and understanding the pricing associated with it, can be overwhelming.
Organizations find themselves lost trying to determine:
- The right digital signage hardware specs for their needs and location
- The type of media player that will deliver the quality they need
- The kind of software that will best support their content requirements.
And this is just the beginning of a digital signage project. To determine the true costs of digital signage, we need to breakdown the digital signage pricing model and everything it includes: full system installation, content creation, and updates.
So How Much Does Digital Signage Cost?
Let’s take a look at the factors every organization needs to take into consideration when looking at the total cost of ownership for digital signage.
Signage Hardware
Hardware includes the many different types of display screens available such as:
- TVs/Digital Displays
- Kiosks
- Video Walls
- Menu Boards
- Interactive Screens
- Tablets
- Large Format Screens and more
Like the hardware, the size and scope of the project will play a big part in the overall cost. The hardware you should go with will depend on your product, communication objectives, and how you intend for your audience to receive your messaging.
In addition, the location of your solution (indoor, outdoor, etc.), the lighting (the amount of natural light is significant), your runtime on the displays, and the distance between your hardware and your audience are all critical factors when buying your hardware.
For commercial vs consumer-grade hardware options, here’s the truth; commercial-grade hardware is made to operate 24/7 and is brighter, has a sharper focus and won’t fade or burn out, unlike consumer-grade TVs and other displays. Although some have tried to use consumer-grade products, it is important to know that these displays are usually not bright and are not meant to run for more than 6 hours/day. In fact, their warranty is usually null and void if used for longer run times.
In the end, a consumer-grade option looks unprofessional, reflects poorly on your business and you will likely have to replace it, which is more costly than buying and installing the right commercial-grade solution in the first place.
Media Players
Media players are required to send your content to your display or monitor, and the quality and performance of your content will depend on the player you choose.
There are many different makes and models of media players. It’s important to ensure the player you purchase is both compatible with your hardware and can deliver your content effectively to your display.
With media players you will also have to decide if you need a single or multi-output player, the software (Windows vs Android) and level of security you’ll need. According to Mike White a “thorough discussion about the network needs and expectations of your digital signage player with the IT department are a high priority.”
As for media player costs, there is a wide range of pricing based on the player you choose.
Interested in learning more about digital signage?
Check out digital signage in your industry
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Software/CMS
Digital Signage software, sometimes referred to as Content Management Server or CMS, is where the messaging for your signs is created, manipulated and housed. When considering software, you want to look at ease-of-use, security, and whether or not the supplier offers regular upgrades and/or bug fixes.
In addition, many organizations appreciate software that allows them to update their content remotely and across a digital signage network. This gives them full control of their content from a single location. Business owners can have different messages for different locations, or they can promote their message simultaneously and therefore have consistent messaging across all their screens regardless of where they are located.
You want to avoid the free digital software licenses that are out there, typically they are poor performing have hidden fees that can cost thousands of dollars.
Interested in Digital Signage but Wary of the Costs?
Contact VIEWitMEDIA and we’ll match the cost to your budget.
Content
The messaging that appears on your displays is often the most overlooked area when developing a digital signage solution and yet, it’s critical to you meeting your signage goals. Good content drives business and increases dwell time, whereas poor quality content can have a negative effect.
Content creation and maintenance can be handled by your current marketing agency, via a digital signage solution provider such as VIEWitMEDIA, or even on your own depending on the level of content you are looking to display. A good content plan will help keep costs down, ensure you are reaching your audience and dramatically affect your ROI.
Installation
Installation costs are relatively standard across the board and are based on the number of units you are installing, the location, and the type of mounting required. You will have to consider whether or not you require scaffolding or a lift truck, and if the installation has to occur during off-hours which will increase the installer fees. And don’t forget the cost of all the necessary cables, mounting brackets and the ongoing electricity required to run the system.
Financial Support Available
One of the best options for an organization, especially one just starting out with digital signage, is financing. Some providers, like VIEWitMEDIA, offer full or partial financing, which provides the client with a manageable monthly cost and allows them to get started.
Why work with a Digital Signage Solution Integrator:
The variety of options, costs, and depth of knowledge required to plan and implement a digital signage solution is significant and if you don’t have the expertise you could end up spending quite a bit more than necessary or worse, having to replace the system entirely.
Your best option is to work with a digital signage solution integrator – they are highly trained, have the depth of knowledge required to assess your needs and build a solution right for you. In addition, they have the buying relationships with the hardware, media player, software, content developers and installation partners that allow them to design an affordable solution for your needs.
