How To Decide What Displays To Use for Communication

Digital displays are used in a variety of settings, from digital signage in retail stores to corporate communication in office spaces. The correct display choice can increase the visibility of your message and engage your audience more effectively.

Whether you’re advertising products, displaying important information, or offering interactive experiences, the type of display you choose matters. It can greatly influence the impact of your communication efforts. With so many options available, it’s important to understand how different display types can serve different business needs. Key factors like your audience, content type, placement, and budget will all play a role in deciding what display is best for your purpose.

Understanding Different Types of Displays

When it comes to choosing the right display, there are several technologies to consider. A few decisions you’ll need to make is to choose between  interactive vs. static displays as well as between LED vs. LCD screens. LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), LED (Light Emitting Diode), and OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) each offer distinct benefits.

• LCD screens are the most widely used and are known for their affordability and relatively long lifespan. However, their color accuracy and viewing angles may be limited compared to other technologies.
• LED screens, while similar to LCDs, use LED backlighting, making them more energy-efficient and brighter. These displays are also thinner, offering a sleeker design that works well for modern business spaces.
• OLED screens are known for their superior picture quality, vibrant colors, and high contrast ratios. These displays offer wider viewing angles and are great for high-end, immersive displays, though they come with a higher price tag.

Another important factor to consider is whether you need a touchscreen or a non-touchscreen display. Touchscreens are ideal for interactive experiences, such as digital kiosks or information booths. Non-touchscreen displays, on the other hand, are better suited for passive communication, where the audience doesn’t need to interact directly with the screen.

For larger-scale communications, projection displays can be a viable option. Projectors are excellent for projecting large images or videos in spaces like conference rooms or event venues.

They are ideal for temporary displays or when a high level of customization is needed. Video walls combine multiple screens to create a large-scale visual experience. They are perfect for attention-grabbing content, such as advertisements or brand messaging in busy areas.

Choosing the Right Display Size and Resolution

Choosing the right screen size will depend on your viewing distance and the environment in which the display will be placed. The viewing distance plays a major role in determining the appropriate screen size. For close-up viewing, smaller displays with higher resolution may be better, while larger screens are ideal for displaying content from a distance.

Resolution also affects the visual quality of the content. For example, a 1080p resolution is sufficient for most standard communication needs. However, if your content includes highly detailed images or videos, you might want to consider 4K or even 8K resolution. The higher the resolution, the sharper and more detailed the display will be. This can be particularly beneficial for content that involves fine details, such as product designs or digital advertisements.

When deciding between a single display or a multi-screen setup, consider the size of the space and how much information you need to present. Single displays are often enough for smaller areas, but if you need to showcase a lot of content at once or create an immersive experience, multi-screen setups may be more suitable.

Display Placement and Viewing Environment

Where you place your display is as important as choosing the right screen. Indoor vs. outdoor screens require different considerations, especially in terms of weather resistance and brightness. Outdoor screens need to be weatherproof and able to withstand environmental conditions like rain, dust, and extreme temperatures. Additionally, outdoor displays require higher brightness levels to overcome sunlight and ensure visibility.

For indoor spaces, the brightness needs might be lower, but you still need to think about how the display will be mounted. There are several mounting options to choose from, including wall-mounted, freestanding, and ceiling-hung displays. The placement should allow for the best visibility from various angles and distances.

Another factor to consider is glare and ambient lighting. Screens can become difficult to read if they are placed in direct sunlight or near strong artificial lighting. For optimal visibility, displays should be placed in areas where glare is minimized. Alternatively, you may want to choose a display with anti-glare technology.

Connectivity and Content Management

The way your display connects to other devices is a key part of the decision-making process. Displays generally use HDMI, DisplayPort, or wireless casting to receive input from media players or computers. Make sure the display you choose supports the right input connections for your needs.

In addition to connectivity, consider how the display will be controlled and updated. Digital signage software and a Content Management System (CMS) allow for real-time updates to the content being displayed. This is especially important for businesses that need to change their messages quickly or remotely, such as in retail environments or for emergency announcements.

With the rise of cloud-based content management, it’s easier than ever to manage content across multiple displays from a single location. This is particularly useful for businesses with multiple locations, as it allows for centralized control of all content and settings.

Cost, Longevity, and Maintenance

When considering your communication display options, it’s important to balance upfront costs with long-term durability. Higher-quality displays with better technology, like OLED or large-format displays, often come with a higher price tag. However, investing in a quality display may save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Energy efficiency is another consideration. LED displays tend to be more energy-efficient than older LCD models, helping to lower operational costs over time. For businesses aiming to reduce their environmental impact, energy-efficient displays can be a key factor in reducing carbon footprints.

Maintenance is another factor to consider. While LCD and LED screens generally have long lifespans, regular cleaning and occasional technical support may be necessary to keep them running smoothly. On the other hand, projection displays and video walls may require more frequent upkeep, especially if used in high-traffic or public spaces.

Choosing the Right Display

Choosing from the vast digital signage screen selection for communication is a decision that should align with your business goals and audience needs. The best digital displays for business should not only reflect your brand’s image but also enhance how your audience interacts with the information being presented.

By considering factors like display technology, size, and placement, businesses can make an informed choice. Connectivity and maintenance also play a key role in balancing functionality with budget.

If you need expert advice on selecting the right display for your business, Contact Us Today for a free consultation.