Weather proof digital signage in action...

...or not

The sun is out so don't bother trying to read meI recently went to Howlett's zoo and wild animal park, since I always keep my eyes peeled for digital signage installations, I was  surprised to find the screen to the left. 

Someone has gone to the trouble of building a very aesthetically pleasing enclosure in keeping with the rest of the park design. It's well finished, will age to match the fence behind it and looks water and tamper proof. 

All great with one exception - the screen the vendor has supplied a display that isn't viewable in strong sunlight or even shade when the sun is out.

This happens often, the business case and investment is made for large displays which can run into thousands when you factor in the installation and set-up.

The solution to the zoo's unreadable screen is easily solvable - either use an outdoor screen or bonded glass on the enclosure to allow the content to be viewable in bright conditions.

When you're installing digital signage here are some top tips to get the most out of your investment:

1. Set clear communication objectives for the screens in terms of what information you need to relay to your audience
2. Put the screens in locations with high traffic or captive audiences (lifts, lift "lobbies", cafes, rest areas hallways and open plan offices)
3. Update content regularly so interest stays high
4. Automate what you can from already authored content from intranets, web sites, RSS feeds,  videos, internal corporate information and other sources
5. Create for at-a-glance viewing using video, imagery and short sharp messages - reference other information sources if you need to communicate more

And, finally, make sure your screen is readable.