Digital signage is the use of screens instead of traditional signs. If you visited a fast-food restaurant recently, you likely saw this in action. Yet this advancement in technology is not out of your reach. Large-screen television prices are falling every year. Plus content delivery tools make managing several screens fast and easy. In this article, I will explain several advantages of digital signs and how your church can use them.
What is Digital Signage?
As I said, digital signage uses a screen rather than a physical sign. So obviously you will need a large screen or a high-quality projector. In most cases, you have a central computer or device that controls all your signs. Attached to each sign is a streaming device that sends the information to the screen. Often this is done over a wireless connection. This creates less work and requires only power cords.
Digital Signage Placement
The tricky thing about placing your digital signage is that you want everyone to see it. Yet, high-traffic areas do not benefit from people crowding around a screen. Consider moving your screen to a less-traveled area. But one that is clearly visible from social gathering points. Also, avoid using content that requires audio. Those high-traffic areas are likely quite noisy. Plus you do not want to hear videos playing during church services.
Uses for Digital Signage
Bulletin Replacement
I doubt we will ever see church bulletins completely go away. But digital signage can justify reducing its size. Offload your event announcements. Congratulate members on anniversaries and celebrations. Also, avoid making this the place where large announcements are first released. If your pastor is moving to another church, that should come from them, not a screen.
Church Communications
Everyone on your church communications team should be excited about digital signage. Marketing campaigns can be part of the content you display in your church. Make it easy with the help of short URLs and website redirects. Remind visitors of social media accounts on the platforms you use. Yet do not just encourage them to follow, share, or like the content. Advocate the benefits you provide through those channels.
Safety Alerts
Having worked with church security teams, I know there are times you want to reassure the congregation. There are also times you want them to be more vigilant. Screens can help communicate to new visitors what your various protocols are. This is very important for young families trying out Sunday School for the first time. Finally, any emergency situation can include instructions and situation updates. Everyone can remain calm and informed.
Action Item
If you have not done so, please consider implementing digital signage at your church. These screens do not depend on your digital ministries. Yet they can certainly complement them. Plus any technology geek will be happy to set up and configure the new system. This new step in signage will lead to an easier way to update content. Speaking of content, consider the various use cases I outlined above. See what makes sense for your various audiences and situations. Depending on what features you need, this can be an inexpensive investment. Determine what returns you would like to see, and prayerfully consider moving forward.
Note: This article was inspired by conversations with my colleague Jonathan McCune
Photo courtesy of Kaique Rocha
