An effective retail digital signage network installation is not possible without the right mounting technology and optimum placement or “spotting” of the displays.
By Dale Smith, Managing Director of Sales-West for Peerless Industries
Realizing the potential benefits retail digital signage (RDS) provides, store owners are increasingly incorporating RDS networks in their advertising strategies, construction budgets and promotional plans for the future.
With so many facets to the RDS supply chain — hardware, software, video displays, mounting devices, network management and content creation — choosing the right partner is essential for a successful RDS application. However, an effective RDS system is not possible without the right mounting technology and optimum placement or “spotting” of the displays.
Screen Spotting Considerations
Anywhere large numbers of people visit, shop, mingle, travel or otherwise gather is an excellent place for communicating messages of many kinds: sales, information, education or entertainment.
When installing an RDS system, there is a lot to consider. Most importantly; are the video displays placed in areas where there is the greatest possibility for consumers to take in the message? This is critical, for all the well-intentioned design work, beautiful displays and high-powered content money can buy are rendered ineffective if screens are placed in poor locations.
Successful screen spotting places the display and the content where it can be easily, safely and securely viewed, serviced, replaced and updated. A system may require dozens of screens in easy-to-reach and simple-to-install locations. However, there will be variations in ceiling heights, attachment points, power availability, etc. As the network increases in size, so do the number of possible variations. Screen spotting is easy when you are placing “X” marks on a plan-o-gram, but the execution — which is what counts — is more complex.
Installation Solutions
Audio/visual mounting devices allow for optimal screen placement in the identified key screen spotting locations. Some retailers opt for overhead or “action alley” type screen spotting, but the current trend is toward “eye level” screen placement.
As RDS technology and content evolves, so are the mounts used to enable these systems. Today audio/visual mounts are available in a wide variety of styles such as flat, tilt, pivot and articulating for major versatility. They can be used in almost any location, whether wall, ceiling or floor, and can be mounted to a wide range of surfaces including wood, concrete, metal and brick.
Supplier Know-how
Given the variety of installation options, you’ll want to be sure that the mounting device manufacturer on your RDS supply chain team offers the following:
- Good relationships with screen suppliers.
- Custom capabilities.
- Proven safety and reliability.
- Security features.
Remember: It takes an experienced team of suppliers with design, deployment and logistical expertise to create a successful network. And it takes the careful application of screen spotting know-how to ensure the optimum viewing of those displays.
