A guide to digital signage software for schools

Digital signage is a highly flexible technological innovation. If any limitations are to occur, it would be due to software restrictions. But that too is now overcome as a result of so many software providers on the market catering to different niches including schools, hospitals, hotels, retail and much more.

This guide will focus on what digital signage features that schools should be looking out for, ways in which schools can use LED signs and how they should be selecting a software provider for LED school signs.

Must-have features for digital signage in schools

• Options to display dynamic content
  Schools should be able to display weather updates, news, live video streaming, social media updates, emergency alerts and so on. Therefore it is important for the software to have plenty of content options that can be updated automatically so as to make content management seamless.
• Remote management
  Software should have the option of managing the digital signage network from any computer with internet access. LED school sign administrators don’t have to log on to one particular PC to update and manage the content.
• Content scheduling
  Schools should be able to set up content rotation schedules for the week – instructing the display what to play on weekdays and during school hours.
• Network monitoring and reporting
  If a school campus plans on installing many LED screens in different locations, the software should have networking facilities to easily connect and manage all screens. Reporting facilities include a report of which screen displays what data and at what times it is switched off and on.
• User access
  When larger educational institutes have multiple operators managing the content, user access controls who can make changes to what content being displayed on the system.
• Scalability
  This determines how easily new screens, new content and new users can be added to the digital signage system. The software platform should be able to fit current needs as well as expand as the school expands.

How schools can make use of digital displays

• Maps and wayfinding
  For larger school campuses that have multiple buildings with multiple floors and countless classrooms, guests would find it tough to navigate around the campus. A wayfinding map can assure that visitors can find their way to their destination without much frustration.
• Emergency alerts
  Amber alerts, active shooters, fires, gas leaks and so on can be integrated with the wayfinding map to show the fastest escape route during emergencies.
• Videos
  Educational clips and other relevant videos (regarding key concepts) from the internet or customized for the school itself can be displayed to inform and entertain students and staff.
• Social media
  Millennial students can be attracted with social media posted on nearby digital displays. With the correct teacher responsible for this strategy, students will surely remain engaged.
• Custom Templates
  With the flexibility of digital signage software, custom content for highlighting teacher and student achievements, recognizing a sports team, announcements regarding events and so on is also possible.

Choosing an appropriate software provider

Schools should conduct detailed research to identify quality digital signage solution providers. Here are some issues you need to keep an eye out for when selecting a provider:

• Work quality
  Take a look at the provider’s testimonials, past projects and overall experience.
• Costs
  Schools are always working under a restricted budget. Yet, when reviewing costs, don’t opt for the cheapest options as you may not get the best service. Evaluate costs against expected ROI before you make a decision.
• Scale of project
  Your service provider should be able to meet projects of larger scale – projects that are being considered across several branches of one school.
• Specializations
  It would be an added bonus to find a provider who specializes in the industry. LED Craft Inc is one such reputed provider who specializes in LED school signs and can give you the best software and hardware package.