1. The medium may change, but art remains
Looking back to the 1600s, artists were known for creating clay sculptures or painting on large canvases. But the digital age has brought about innumerable opportunities for artists to create digital animations or designing applications. Digital signage is an evolving medium, offering an interesting mix of both traditional art as well as the new age art.
2. Don’t hold back
The aesthetics of the right design should be both focused as well as practical. There is a necessity for form and function, which means that skilled professionals are relying on a targeted group of core concepts to help them create masterpieces that will be approved by the management and will also reflect amazingly on your brand.
3. Do your research
In creating an ideal digital communication design, research comes first. Begin with a guide for the style of your brand and consider what content needs to be put across. Most organizations have a set of brand guidelines which will help you gain an insight into the colors and visual style that is acceptable by the brand. In situations where a guide is unavailable, discuss with the marketing team and create one. You need to set out some commonly used and acceptable color schemes, fonts and logo rules to be able to create digital signage. Then think about the message to be communicated and how that message is being shared at present. Consider the audience and prioritize the content.
4. Come up with a realistic outline
Highlight the content that has to be a part of your signage content. You now have insight to the scope of the project and can predict how the material will be perceived. A content matrix is one way in which you can fill out a comprehensive list of the different types of content to be displayed on each screen. When designing the layouts for a range of screen sizes, this matrix will be very helpful.
5. Make a sketch
At this point, it is time to start brainstorming ideas and noting them down. Producing alternative designs and getting feedback for each while the project is still in the early stages is a good idea. After mapping out the general details, you can set a timeline to make sure the project is completed on time.
Once the rough outlines and deliverables have been agreed upon, do some research on the fonts. Sans Serif is a safe bet for titles as well as the body. Also consider the casing – when all caps are seen on a sign, it can get difficult to read because all the text become like blocks.
6. Think from an observer’s perspective
Keep in mind the viewing distance as well when creating your final design. For about 20-25 feet, a height of one inch for your font would be fine. Where will your audience be standing and how will they interact with your message? The size of the LED display and the pixel density are also critical in determining the final visibility of the design. Also keep in mind that colors used should be simple and not too overwhelming for the eyes.
7. Put everything together
Now put your final designs together and get feedback. Which parts of it do people like or dislike? Don’t be offended with feedback; consider it an objective. Ask yourself as well if you have produced the best possible content? Have you missed anything?
You are now ready to Photoshop your design as per your LED screen sizes. You may be able to do this easier with your digital signage software – explore your options and publish some stunning designs!
