Volume 6, Issue 10 — October 29, 2014

The answer to confusion is always “no.” As product selection at the retail shelf is, by definition, a source of confusion for consumers, brands have a significant opportunity for point-of-purchase conversion through shelf level or service counter promotion.

When connecting the dots that represent the information and touch points on the ever-changing path to purchase, they ultimately converge at the shelf level. Even online ordering, the ever-increasing torture of physical space retailing with its “show-rooming”, is supported by shelf level media. The culture of shopping is moving forward as consumers seek information, inspiration, ever-changing stories that put the product in the context of their needs, wants, life and events.

In a session titled “The Future of Engagement” at the recent symposium hosted by the Digital Screenmedia Association, Jim Crawford, CEO of Chute Gerdeman and Ethan Whitehill, CEO of TwoWest provided insights about the retail experience. “Every store has a story,” Whitehill said. “How do you tell that story with technology? How do we enhance that story for the shopper?”

“Retail is mostly through brick-and-mortar stores, in large part because the in-store experience still provides utility, a sense of community and meaning” the panelists agreed. “Shopping happens because of the task, and the treat,” Whitehill said. “Brick and mortar delivers that better than any other experience.”

The two paramount marketing media questions that serve as the basis for action by the brand are a) Will consumers see the promotional message? And b) Will the message activate their action?

A resounding “yes” is the response to shelf level digital media. Dynamic media at the retail shelf reduces the “friction” at this most important of all points on the sometimes eclectic, always evolving path to purchase. Messaging that amplifies the brand identity and its promise at the point where the consumers hand moves products from a shelf to their cart, or places an order at a service counter deliver the prize that brands seek, including selection for trial or next use.

Many marketers, and consumers, believe that the consumer is at the center of the universe with buying power being a gravitational force that influences all brand and supply chain behavior. Emboldened by social media, consumers are happy to make brands feel the laurels or darts of their behavior.

Brand perception on the part of a consumer plays out at the store shelf. Appeal, disdain or indifference motivate product selection, as the marriage of convenience between brand and retailer works to device and execute sufficiently capable branding and promotional communications.

The arsenal of point-of-purchase instruments is fairly limited, typically including package design, shelf positioning, attractive pricing or some nearby static signs that aim to earn attention.

The retail shelf has been coined as the First Moment of Truth by Dina Howell, which proposed that all elements of marketing and promotion should be defined from shelf level interaction and then including merchandising, promotion, advertising and branding campaigns.

In a September 21, 2005 article on page 1 of the Wall Street Journal titled, “In a Shift, Marketers Beef Up Spending Inside Stores”, Procter and Gamble Co. reflected its belief that “shoppers make up their mind about a product selection in about the time it takes to read this [sentence].” Dina Howell, as director, First Moment of Truth (FMOT, pronounced EFF-mot), at Procter & Gamble, said “P&G wants to connect with consumers when and where they are most receptive to information about P&G Brands. We want to delight the consumer as well as simplify the shopping experience.” She said, “Working with retailers is pivotal to P&G success”, Ms. Howell added, “The store must be an extension of the brand and we must work in collaboration with retailers at that critical first moment of truth when a consumer makes the purchase decision”.

FMOT defines the point of product selection as the starting point for consumer goods marketing. In short, by appealing to consumer’s senses, values and emotions at the specific point of purchase, marketers can convert browsers to buyers and give their product the best chance of selection.

This “first moment of truth” as coined by P&G Acknowledges the decline in effectiveness of broadcast ad spending, the growing importance of retail media in the marketing mix, improved measurement capability and most importantly, the effectiveness of point-of-purchase and out-of-home ad display.

By inverting this marketing communications funnel, P&G has turned the questions to focus on achieving highest Return on Objectives. They ask, “In starting at the point of selection, how should we invest to achieve planned sales volumes and margins?” The basis of the planning and decision framework shifts to the achievement of effectiveness of “customer engagement” and relationship.

Retail marketing in this century harkens the important shift in 1694, when Galileo very successfully, and against established powers, that the sun was the center with planets and moons revolving around it, rather than the Earth being at the center.

In marketing, the brand has been central, but successful marketers accept that it is the consumer that is at the center, with brand options and the communications of each revolving around that buying power.

“The importance to growth of any brand is driven primarily by in-store visibility, consumer shop-ability and information that drives purchase decision,” says Jean-Pierre Lacroix, president, Shikatani Lacroix.

Russell Young, SVP, Interactive and Mobile Experiences at retail and dynamic media provider Stratacache says “Whether you call it the Point of Influence, or the Final Moment of Truth, there is no denying the importance of creating inspiration at the retail shelf level. Savvy brands and retailers realize this important point in the customer journey and continue to seek out innovative methods for driving conversion during these precious few seconds. The key to success in optimizing this shelf level engagement is to convey value in a subtle manner that feels natural in that specific environment.”

“Creating digital at-purchase moments is one of the most effective ways to influence purchase decision in-store,” notes Marcos Terenzio, director of digital experience, Shikatani Lacroix.

The value of shelf-level dynamic signage, says Laura Davis-Taylor SVP, director of Omnichannel Experience of The Integer Group, a member of the Publicis Omnicom Group of agencies, is “in being able to capture, connect and close in one fell swoop. The uniqueness of it can effectively capture attention unlike no other POP. It’s truly can’t miss. The attraction and content and call to action (CTA) can close them by answering their questions and lighting up their impulse propensity — sometimes in mere seconds.”

She adds, “It has worked well when ensuring that the way that the shopper encounters it is contextual to what they are trying to solve at the moment — in that particular store, in that category with that specific product”. By enabling consumer browsing, comparison, researching and selecting items in retail, it fits between Pre-Tail when consumers research and choose a store or website, and Post-Tail® beyond the purchase moment and product use.”

Andy McRae, general manager of Dot2Dot Communications, Inc. that provides the popular Scala content management platform and its additional capacities for third party advertising management, is a strong proponent for digital at and near-shelf media.

McRae says, “We have long felt that shelf level media is possibly the most important step in the path to purchase. Being able to influence the purchase decision at the shelf allows retailers to maximize value. Using a combination of omnichannel capability, real time networked appliances and displays, and advanced analytics capable of changing content to fit the situation gives retailer ultimate control over the shopper’s experience”.

“Devices such as Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs) provide retailers with an easy way to change messaging, including pricing, based on any number of data inputs. Understanding the influences on a purchase decision is only half the equation. Having a system that allows changes to be made based on those influences, especially if it is automatic, completes the process,” he notes.

“Dynamic pricing has long been the ultimate goal for most industries, but retail in particular,” said McRae. He adds, “The advent of inexpensive, low power Electronic Shelf Labels combined with the robust content management system, and advanced purchase analytics offered by Scala have finally brought this from a manual process based on guesses to a highly automated process guided by facts.”

Says McRae, “More and more often retailers are asking for intelligent data driven communications networks for their store environments. These systems must offer purchase analytics, real time content update capability, integration with point of sale systems, and comprehensive result measurement. The displays themselves now range from large spectacular outdoor and outside — store viewable video walls designed to attract people into the store, to the very small Electronic Shelf Label (ESL) aimed at influencing the actual purchase decision.” McRae speculates that, “it is estimated that in the next 5 years, as much as 50 percent of purchases will be made online, or through mobile and social commerce so it is critical that any shelf level media have a mobile tie-in as a way of extending the shopping experience across multiple channels.”

“Shoppers are looking for retailers to connect with them, make it easier to search, plan and purchase. We have been working with brands to capture data from on-shelf interactive displays, using it to measure business results and improve marketing strategies,” he said. “It’s all about strategy, scalability and relevancy. Our goal is always to make it easier for retailers to communicate and interact with today’s shoppers using the most advanced technology platforms.”

The Laurentien Bank has installed small screens horizontally under glass at the teller station. “This allows the client being served and signing paper such as deposits in front of the teller to see the digital screen messages with bank-related content, “ said Benoit Johnson, CEO of Montreal-based provider Viftele, which provides digital signage for the bank. “This screen allows the bank to have less small static signs at this specific space and the customers are presented with a hard to avoid message.”

“Empowering the consumer to have control and access to product information easily and conveniently is the key to their decision regarding what they buy. The value of shelf level digital media is that it is convenient and dynamic, and is a useful alternative to the mobile device though it can be used in conjunction with mobile to increase the brand reach,” says Suzana Spratley, CEO of the digital engagement agency TechTAP.

Spratley adds, “It is all about the connected consumer having control over their choices in an easy and convenient way. By placing the choice for the consumer in a digital medium at shelf height, the brand will offer more than one key decision point, for example, price as well as product features, benefits, ingredients, alternate uses, etc. Better choices bond consumers to brands and build advocates.” She emphasizes, “Brands must engage, inform and enhance the experience in a convenient and useful way.”

Displays are being used that maximize shelf space and do not displace any product frontage while being installed and operated.

A popular shelf dynamic display device is provided by Regency Digital. Vice president Abraham d’Ancona says, “The merchant is offered the opportunity to connect with the consumer. It reinforces the brand while maximizing shelf space and point-of-purchase consumer messaging that adds a sense of excitement, immediacy and urgency. In doing so,” adds d’Ancona, “It engages the patron to fulfill their needs and wants while also motivating product trial or an impulse buy. It is all about shopper conversion and product selection.”

The shelf video strip from Regency Digital includes multiple 2×4 inch video panels in a 1-inch deep housing that attaches easily to any retail shelf horizontally or vertically. Individual screens are able to play independently or in conjunction with each other and can be subdivided allowing for full color, high resolution video, animation, stills, QR codes or other engagement media. The device includes the display strip, a 2-inch cube media player that accommodates Wi-Fi or USB media loading, a mounting bracket and connection cables.

European retailers have already embraced shelf level dynamic media for more than two years, enabled by retail support agencies with retailer and brand relationships as well as experience with in-store merchandising /advertising or POP. “The most successful applications,” says d’Ancona, “have been where the shelf level video strip is the at-shelf element of a campaign that involved other promotion media. Products that have done especially well using shelf level video include new and aspirational products as well as market leading brands in consumables such as diapers, baby formula, chocolate, cosmetics, beverages, in particular when used in larger retail chains. Marketers who care about success in the retail store now have the tool that they need to generate more stock turns and gain market share over competitors at the retail shelf.”

“Getting the buyers attention has never been tougher, with so much messaging that it can just be noise to the buyer, that is why the video bar is so effective, it’s unique eye catching format at the point of decision engages the customer literally at his/her point of decision and delivers the motivation to buy,” notes Mike White, CEO of Multi-media Solutions, which has provided digital signage for award winning retail applications such as duty free shops at the Shoppes at Ocean Drive at Miami International Airport.

D’Ancona notes that the Regency Digital video strip is being used on a constant basis in two of the leading retailer supermarkets and drug stores, and that brands tend to use the shelf level video strip on an ongoing basis after an initial trial.

Jose Avalos, Director, Visual Retail, Retail Solutions Division for Intel Corporation in the Embedded & Communications Group concludes “Digital Signage as an ingredient can be transformational to numerous product categories like Interactive Whiteboards for education, Digital jukeboxes for hospitality and transparent displays for supermarkets, among others. In the retail sector it is understood that 68 percent of all purchases are unplanned and 70 percent of brand choices are made at the shelf. The advent of Intelligent Shelving  with integrated advertising and information content can fulfill a much more active role where it understands shopper needs, understands the product or products it is showcasing, and uses enhanced capabilities to participate more fully in the selling process. And it can do this in a way that is highly personalized, including the use of personalized pricing and promotions.” He adds “For manufacturers, an intelligent shelf can create data-led sales and marketing opportunities and help them better understand who is buying their products, and who is not. It can also maximize profit for the retailer by optimizing pricing dynamically, and enable manufacturers and retailers to reward shopper loyalty, all at the shelf edge.”

The consumer is at the center of the universe and that most essential of marketing success points, the moment of truth, is the retail shelf. Brand campaigns, retailer policy and the supply of shelf level display must align. As they do, the shopper will deliver benefits to all.

Lyle Bunn (Ph.D. Hon) is an analyst, adviser and educator in North America’s digital out-of-home industry. He has been recognized with six industry awards, helped hundreds of organizations to take advantage of dynamic signage, has published almost 300 articles, whitepapers and guidebooks, and has helped to train more than 10,000 media and supply professionals.

This column was reprinted with permission from the Digital Screenmedia Association and originally appeared here.

Your digital signage is finally ready to go and your content management system is stocked full of content. Unfortunately, your self-celebration is quickly silenced by the lack of audience engagement. In fact, no one seems to notice the signs at all. What gives?

If you’re like the vast majority of those who implement digital signage, you’re not a designer. If that’s the case, you have to acknowledge the harsh reality of the situation — your slides are repelling your audience’s attention. Just because your content is being fed through a screen doesn’t mean everyone will automatically connect and engage. Think of how you quickly avert your gaze from mediocre-at-best advertisements on the subway, so too do the people in your workplace.

You’re probably asking yourself, “What is so wrong with my design?” I’ll answer the question for you. Your first mistake is you didn’t actually consider a design at all. Sure, you might put the right message and images on your slide, but those assets alone do not create an engaging visual. This brings us to the second question you should ask yourself…

What is design?

Your content is made up of two essential pieces, the message and the design. Both are vital in trying to reach your audience. A typical problem users have is that their messages aren’t reaching their audience. A strong design can eliminate this situation. Design is the marriage of form and function. Good content design will give your message a visual package that excites consumers enough to explore.

Almost half, a full 46.1 percent, of people say a company’s design is the No. 1 criterion for discerning their credibility. If a company’s content looks messy, consumers assume the same of their products and services. Good design not only organizes the mess, but can also add a noticeable finishing touch. When your desk is organized and clean, it’s much easier to find your keys rather than when you have to sift through stacks of paper and the remains of yesterday’s lunch. Graphic design works the same way: It helps viewers digest the information while putting in minimal effort. Okay, next question.

How does design apply to digital signage?

When you have endless flexibility for content creation like digital signage, design is the science that crafts and harnesses your message. Keep in mind that you’re designing content for large screens or kiosks, not a desktop computer. Create for the environment. Don’t focus on creating an award-winning design, instead keep the following principles in mind. Use a design that makes your message understandable, a design that is unobtrusive, and a design that is honest.

Visual thinking happens faster than text-based thinking; with digital signage this is a vital detail. The message should already be narrowed down to the essentials: the who, what, where, when or why. The visual elements, too, should be set up in a way that helps viewers easily understand the message. The design should not get in the way of the message; rather it should support the message in a visually appealing manner.

Digital signage is a powerful tool for communication; its ability to attract, engage and retain audience of all types is unparalleled. However, if your content is bland or confusing, the messages will go right over your viewers’ heads. By creating content that is aesthetic, concise, refreshed and entertaining, your digital signage will be a hit. Spend a little extra time learning design basics, so your slides will capture the attention of your audience.

Despite having lived through the Great Recession and carrying an average of $25,000 in student loan debt, millennials’ $600 billion of spending is projected to increase to $1.4 trillion by 2020. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is naturally interested in this economically powerful group and concludes they will “completely upend many of the established businesses, methods, and processes that have defined the U.S. Public and private sectors for decades.”

This generation is moving at a pace that legacy retailers are hard-pressed to keep up with. The physical store is still the focus of the vast majority of sales, but there is a plodding but undeniable “any channel” transformation being influenced by millennials’ desire for shopping without boundaries.

Besides renovating disparate technology platforms, what are retailers doing to court this powerful, ascending generation? Their responses include changes to format, visual merchandising, product displays, digital signage, interactive shopping experiences, location-based mobile communication and targeted product offerings.

Take for example, Macy’s, which is incorporating many of these strategies. They’ve developed apps and installed Wi-Fi. They’re using Shopkick and testing iBeacon for location-based in-store offers. They’re integrating interactive technology into numerous departments to satisfy expectations for immediacy, access and engagement with fresh content. Localized product assortments catering to specific Millennial sub-segments are a part of their merchandising strategy. So committed to this target is Macy’s CEO Terry Lundgren that he has breakfast monthly with a group of Millennial employees to get their feedback.

There are numerous other examples of retail transformation in our latest whitepaper Succeeding with millennials as well as a list of implications for marketing to millennials that emerge from vast amounts of research being conducted on them:

• Embrace the multi-channel mindset by catering to expectations for relevancy and accessibility that are rooted in online experience.
• Create store environments that merge physical and digital elements.
• Create environments that are vibrant and dynamic.
• Balance deal-oriented incentives with exceptional experiences in order to win hearts and pocketbooks.
• Develop marketing and merchandising plans that incorporate multi-directional engagement.
• Incorporate opportunities for validating purchase decisions through peers and ratings/reviews.

I’m sure you have others to add.

This column was reprinted with permission from the Digital Screenmedia Association and originally appeared here.

Image via Industry Weapon

• Resolutions up to 4096×2160@30Hz
• HDMI 3D compliant
• HDCP compliant
• Allows any source to be displayed on multiple displays at the same time
• Allows any HDMI display to view any HDMI source at any time
• Supports default HDMI EDID and learns the EDID of displays if necessary

Here are all the specs.

• Microsoft Exchange and Exchange 365
• EMS by Dean Evans & Associates
• Google Calendars
• R25/25Live by CollegeNET
• Delphi by Newmarket
• Text file import

They can be updated via RF communications. VISIX says the battery only activates when the information changes, so the internal battery can last at least three years, or 10,000 updates. They can also be enclosed in a custom faceplate with a company logo or design.

More information is here.

Thus, the Clarity Matrix video wall system design eliminates the need for AC power outlets behind the displays. With the electronics and power supply off-board, the weight, depth, heat and potential points of failure can be placed in a convenient location for easy maintenance. Built-in video extension capabilities have been expanded so electronics can be co-located with the source up to 500 feet (150 meters) away from the video wall. A single remote power supply module can power up to six displays.

The new Clarity Matrix MX46HDU and LX55HDU models will be available Q4 2014 and here are all the specs.

DSE is the world’s longest running conference and trade show exclusively dedicated to showcasing digital communications and interactive technology solutions for customer- and employee-facing organizations. Launched in 2004, DSE was the first event dedicated to the digital signage market and has been a significant contributor to the growth of this fast-paced industry. Professional end user attendance represents decision-makers from key industry categories such as retail, restaurant, healthcare, education, hospitality and transportation, as well as other key stakeholders, including advertising executives, brand marketers and systems integrators.

Here is where to register.

The DSC DP-HD A offers several features that enhance and simplify AV system integration. EDID Minder automatically manages EDID communication between the source and display to ensure reliable operation. The DSC DP-HD A includes a buffered DisplayPort input loop-through that provides an output signal for a local monitor. Additional audio capabilities include selectable audio muting and output volume control. The DSC DP-HD A includes a convenient analog two channel audio output for sending de-embedded audio to a sound system or other audio destination. This output can be set for stereo or dual mono.

Here are the details.

The RP551+ is equipped with BenQ’s Multiple Display Administrator (MDA) software which allows administrators and IT managers to simplify panel operations and maintenance by easily adjusting content scheduling, on/off powering, and remote monitoring and control — regardless of system configuration. MDA also works in real time, tracking the voltage and temperature of multiple panels in order to protect displays while automatically sending email alerts should anomalies arise. For end users, the panel’s DisplayNote software facilitates real-time collaboration across multiple computing and smart devices by allowing participants to stream content directly to the screen. Using the software’s Wireless Desktop Control feature, speakers can mirror and wirelessly control a PC from anywhere in the room to create even more presentation flexibility.

The IFP’s EZ Suite software features WiFi display capabilities to connect digital content direct from any computing, smart device, or cloud storage source. Equipped with a Quad Split Screen feature (BYOD), the software supports cross-platform split-screen display capabilities from up to four input sources.

Here are all the specs.

The DTP T HWP 231 D and DTP T HWP 331 D support 12-bit Deep Color, CEC pass-through and embedded HD lossless audio formats. Both transmitters maintain DDC communication of EDID and HDCP between a source and display for reliable operation. To streamline installation, they can be remotely powered by Extron DTP CrossPoint 84 matrix switchers or other DTP-enabled products over the twisted pair cable. The transmitters also offer an HDBaseT output mode that provides the additional integration convenience of a twisted pair output that is compatible with any HDBaseT-enabled display. The DTP T HWP 231 D and DTP T HWP 331 D mount in an included Decora-style wall plate designed for installation in one-gang U.S. wall boxes.

Here are all the details.

Few people choose to watch a black and white movie if there is a color alternative, just as no one gets excited about plain, black-on-white text. The same rule applies to digital signage content. Color is key to audience attraction. In fact, it’s one of the main factors that connect viewers to a message.

Did you know that almost 85 percent of consumers said color was the primary reason that they purchase a particular product? Or that 93 percent of consumers look at the products overall visual appearance when they’re buying? Color improves comprehension, learning and readability. And it gets better, color increases brand recognition by 80 percent. Branding connoisseur, William Arruda, wrote in a Forbes article: “Color is powerful because it exudes brand attributes and makes you memorable. Are you using color appropriately to stand out?” (Follow him on Twitter.)

But before you get a little too color-friendly with your slides, consider your design aesthetics. Certain messages call for certain hues, while others should be based on your brand’s criteria. Let’s discuss a few color theories to consider when choosing which part of the rainbow is appropriate for your digital signage content.

Color Can Improve: Comprehension, Learning and Reading

The Color Wizards at WebFX put together a great infographic on the Psychology of Color.

Color Strikes Our Emotional Chords

This probably isn’t the first place you’ve heard this: Color plays a huge part on our psychological state. If you do a little digging, you’ll find that brand colors of everything in branding are strategically chosen, down to the color of the tables inside your favorite fast food chain.

Colors hit close to the heart. Whether we’re aware of it or not, they remind us of our first emotional experiences. Some, like neon yellow, attract attention. Others, like beige, blend in with the environment and stay neutral. Different colors mean different things in each culture, so for the sake of this blog, we’ll focus on western culture.

Your brand’s colors are very important and should be used in messages that promote your organization. Other messages, however, may need a few extra details. For example, a warm pink background, or a fresh green font can add a subtle depth to your design. Just remember, neutral colors should dominate while brighter/darker colors should be used more sparingly.

Harmonize Color Palettes

Think of how an interior designer would decorate a living room: The wall color might be neutral and light, the couch might be a vibrant color, and the carpet might have a pattern. Hardly ever are the all three from the same category.

This rule applies to your digital signage content, too. Pick a color for the background, then a contrasting color for the font so that it is readable from a distance. The third color, or picture should complement the first two colors. To avoid clashing, choose colors that stem from the same palette:

• Pure Colors: Full fleshed colors that are vibrant, cheerful, and energetic.
• Tinted Colors: Colors mixed with white for a lighter tone.
• Shades of Colors: Colors mixed with black for a mysterious or dark effect.

Pure colors are often used in fast food menus and cartoons, while tints are used in heavenly paintings or bridal bouquets. A digital signage campaign in a spa might strictly use tints for all messages, while a K-12 deployment might use a lot of pure colors. If your message is about a darker topic, like identity theft, you might opt for a palette of shades.

Switch Up Your Digital Signage Content

They say, variety is the spice of life, this too applies to digital signage. Staying within the same palette category is fine, but don’t use the same colors for all 17 of the slides in your campaign. The same colors time and time again may be perceived as one long, mundane slide to less observant audience members. Jump from a slide with a blue background to a contrasting orange. That’ll be sure to catch the eye of any day-dreaming lobby dweller.

So now we’ve focused on why we need design, what mistakes to avoid, which general practices to follow, and now how to incorporate colors. You’re well on your way to being a design guru. Stay tuned for more design advice, and as always, click below to download October’s free digital signage content! Keep those signs fresh and your organizational communications strong!

The V-Tune Pro 4K includes IR, RS232 and IP-based control as well as the ability to program any channel for OTA/Broadcast or streaming content from the LAN, the V-Tune Pro 4K empowers the user to easily switch between content by simply changing channels. Channel/Setup-Configuration is “clone-able” for ease of setup

It doesn’t ship until January 2015 but here are some specs:

• IPTV (UDP/RTP/RTSP multicast and unicast)
• ATSC/QAM/DVB worldwide digital ultra high definition tuning
• NTSC and PAL analog tuning
• H.265, H.264, MPEG 4, MPEG2, and VC-1 up to 4K UHD
• Video and HDMI outputs
• Resolutions: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, 4K UHD, 4K2K (4096×2160)
• Stereo L/R, S/PDIF, and Optical Audio Outputs
• Dolby Digital Surround Sound
• OSD Menus, Closed Captioning, V-Chip, and EPG
• 1RU Rack Mount Ears and IR Remote Included
• RS232 / LAN / IR Remote Control
• Firmware Upgradeable and Cloning via USB port or LAN
• Built in Web Page Remote Control
• Mount one or two units in a 1RU space

Here are the online details.

The new MOV protected 2-Stage unit has the same claims but also says it’s the industry’s most compact stand-alone surge protection device that deflects surge events from line to neutral without contaminating the system ground. It is designed to protect against both over and under voltage events and its two-stage technology provides enhanced surge protection. And, fire-protected components eliminate the risk of fire associated with surge events.

Both of these devices can power and protect displays, extenders, digital signage players and more, while their ultra compact size makes them ideal for installation behind flat panel displays, in furniture, within ceiling and wall boxes or in a traditional rack already filled with components.

Here are specs on both.

It reads digital data stored on DVD and CD discs such as DVD-Video, DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, Video CD, SVCD (Super Audio CD), CD-R/RW, CD-Audio, JPEG, MP3, and Kodak Picture CD. It also supports MP3 playback recorded in CD-RW and DVD-RW discs, as well as MP3 Playback (ID3 TAG), WMA, SACD Multi-channel decoder(Optional) CD layer of Hybrid SACD, SVCD and MPEG-4/Divx ASP.

In the world of digital signage, sometimes simple is better, and putting video and data content on a DVD and just looping it is pretty darn simple. For those types of clients, this is a good solution.

Here are all the specs.

With dual 1080p outputs, touch screen support and integrated with Android Signage Content Management apps, the VIA ALTA DS 2 is powered by a 1.0GHz dual core VIA Elite E1000 Cortex-A9 SoC, the VIA ALTA DS 2 combines high-performance 2D/3D graphics with an advanced video engine that supports Open GL ES 3.0 hardware acceleration and simultaneous multiple HD video playback.

The VIA ALTA DS 2 system integrates a rich set of I/O features through the front and rear panels of its ultra-compact fanless chassis measuring 180mm x 120mm x 25mm (W x H x D). Front panel I/O includes two USB 2.0 ports, one SD Card slot and line-in/out audio jacks. Rear panel I/O includes two HDMI-out ports, one Mini HDMI-in port (project-based support), two Mini USB 2.0 ports, one Gigabit Ethernet port, a Kensington security slot and one 12V DC-in jack.

Onboard features include 2GB DDR3 SDRAM and up to 16GB eMMC Flash memory as well as support for a 2.5” SATA HDD/SSD (project-based support). High-speed wireless networking capabilities are available through an optional 802.11b/g/n USB dongle.

Here are the detailed specs.

BACKGROUND

Earlier this spring, NPR moved into its new headquarters located in Washington, D.C. Throughout the facility are multiple visual aspects, including a large mosaic video wall, donor recognition screen, several interactive touchscreens, elevator lobby digital signage and a digital tower with ticker displays located outside.

NPR had two primary goals: to portray a strong, visual representation of their radio station programming and to provide a more engaging and informative experience for their employees and visitors. Scala software was deployed by digital signage company Imperatives to manage, schedule and deliver content to all the various elements of the installation provided by Sansi North America and overseen by design consultancy Poulin + Morris.

There were a few concerns while creating such a collaborative experience:

• Integrating multiple pieces from four separate companies to create an effective solution. For example, ensuring the design templates built within the Scala system meet the design standards of Poulin + Morris.
• Helping the NPR staff reach self-sufficiency. Imperatives designed and implemented the necessary scripts, templates and schedules at the outset and then trained NPR staff how to use, modify and create their own.
• Deciding what, when and where content would be most effective.

SOLUTIONS

For the Mosaic Media Wall, Scala software enables a variety of information types such as music, arts and life, and world news to be displayed on partial, single or multiple screens within the wall. During the work day, the Mosaic Media Wall also plays the role of wayfinder, providing directions and a countdown for until the beginning of various events.

Outside the building, the ‘NPR Icon Tower’ — an impressive 55-foot-tall feature — indicates the entrance to the lobby while pulsing LED lighting represents sound waves. On the exterior of the building are ticker screens that continuously display three different RSS news feeds.

Back inside the building, Scala software controls a display placed outside the lobby elevator, which is exclusively used for corporate communications, as well as six touchscreens situated in the lobby promoting visitor interaction and a donor board displaying information recognizing those who have donated to NPR.

RESULTS

Overall, the project was successful in accomplishing its objectives. The numerous installations aided communication to and between employees. NPR now has an engaging experience throughout its headquarters that resonates with visitors and employees alike. A stronger brand image has been established, which leads to strengthened brand loyalty.

This case study is reprinted with permission from the Digital Signage Connection and originally appeared here.