Empower Government Operations with Digital Signage: A Comprehensive Guide

• What Is Digital Signage?
• 4 Benefits of Using Digital Signage for the Public Sector
• How to Make Digital Signage Cost-Effective for Small Municipalities
• Real-World Examples of Digital Signage in Governments
• FAQs 

What Is Digital Signage?

Digital signage is a quite complicated way of referring to commercial TV screens of varying sizes. Contrary to the traditional television set found in everyone’s living room, these are intended for long-term use in all sorts of conditions, such as outdoors or indoors. Moreover, as they are frequently operational throughout a standard workday from Monday to Friday, the technology behind them is specifically engineered to minimise the related energy expenses. 

Understanding Digital Signs

For the sake of simplicity, the definition above focuses only on digital signage displays. However, a typical digital signage installation is using much more than screens. Just like your computer needs a software system for you to operate it, so do these commercial TVs. Next, depending on the complexity of the installation, it might need a dedicated server. In addition, depending on the hardware chosen, sometimes the player used to show content is external to the screen or integrated into it. Finally, a typical installation also uses cables like HDMI, DVI and VGA.

Let’s make things easier to understand. Take a look at the image below. Now, imagine you are working in the coffee store below and using digital signage to advertise the available products and promotions. Whenever a new content item is added to the playlist, it must first be uploaded into the software environment used. Then, the software sends “a signal” to the server, telling it to switch to the new item instead. 

This is a very simplified understanding of how this technology works. Once you understand this, you will come to realise that there is no limit to what you can do with the right digital signage software and hardware. For instance, the image below shows the Samsung MagicINFO software solution. One of its key features is that it allows users to also schedule content in advance according to, in this case, the time of day. That way the schedule is tailored to both the customer needs and the business needs of the owner looking to sell more coffee. 

4 Benefits of Using Digital Signage for the Public Sector 

There are countless benefits digital signs have to offer for municipalities. Below we delve into how this technology makes cities smarter, improving internal communication and enhancing the way governments are communicating with their citizens, all while being a more sustainable option than traditional paper-based advertising. Let’s have a more in-depth look at each. 

 
1. Makes Cities Smarter 

Perhaps you are familiar with the smart city concept. In a nutshell, for a city to be smart, it needs to make strategic use of technology to improve overall infrastructure. Think of the way some cities use screens in public spaces or public transit. In addition to this, municipalities can gather and analyse relevant data using triggers like NFC sensors, and use it to improve urban life. For example, bus schedules can be continuously updated using real-time traffic information, helping ease the anxiety passengers may feel about uncertainty in their journey.

Digital signage is one of the best technologies to use in this case. Not only does it serve as the perfect tool for municipalities to “speak” with their citizens, but when made interactive, it can be a fun way for people to access public services. 

2. Improves Internal Communication

In the public sector, effective communication is crucial. Digital signage is an effective and dynamic way to share information, updates and alerts across various departments. Digital screens strategically placed ensure timely delivery of important messages, making them hard to overlook. These messages could include reminders for council meetings, health and safety updates, or other important announcements.  As the latest findings suggest, 85% of employees are motivated when they receive regular updates from management regarding the company’s core values, news, and updates [1].

Moreover, this technology can be used to highlight team wins and celebrate important moments. Workplace digital signage plays a crucial role in employee recognition, inspiring 60% of employees to work harder when they feel appreciated [2].

This modern approach to internal communication fosters a more informed and cohesive workforce, ultimately leading to better decision-making and a more agile response to the needs of the community.

3. Enhances Communication with the Public 

The essence of good governance lies in clear and transparent communication with its citizens. Digital signage offers an unparalleled platform for government entities to spread vital information like public health advice during emergencies in real-time. 

Furthermore, interactive kiosks placed in strategic areas like near reception desks or in the hallway allow everyone to access government services whenever they need to. This can help reduce queues and improve overall satisfaction with public services. 

By leveraging digital signage, governments can bridge the communication gap, making information more accessible and understandable to everyone.

4. Offers a More Sustainable Alternative to Traditional Advertising 

Sustainability is a growing concern and governments must do whatever they can to minimise the damage to our planet. Traditional paper-based advertising and communication not only consume valuable resources but also generate significant waste. 

Digital signs are a greener alternative. With screens that can be updated instantly, there is a drastic reduction in the resources needed because the content can be updated remotely, from the comfort of your office. 

Additionally, commercial TVs have a longer lifespan and can be programmed to switch off or reduce brightness during periods of low foot traffic, conserving energy. By adopting digital signage, municipalities can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, setting a positive example for the community and contributing to the broader goal of reducing the overall carbon footprint.

Making Digital Signage Cost-Effective for Small Municipalities

Investing in a project that uses digital signs can often keep some from making the purchase. Small municipalities often operate with limited budgets, making it extremely important to find cost-effective digital signage solutions. 

Fortunately, this technology is quite scalable and versatile, fitting a wide range of budgets. Strategies for making digital signage cost-effective include opting for cloud-based software with more limited features, collaborating with community partners to split the costs, and opting for energy-efficient screens to reduce ongoing utility expenses.

Choose the Lite Version

For small municipalities aiming to implement digital signage solutions, opting for the Lite version of software platforms can be a game-changer. These versions typically offer essential features needed for effective communication and engagement, without the hefty price tag associated with more comprehensive packages. 

Another great advantage the cloud offers over licenced products is the reduced installation and maintenance costs. Oftentimes, companies that choose to use the cloud do this because it involves less effort on their part as they can benefit from having their project hosted on their provider’s server. Just remember to choose a trustworthy company that can prove they abide by the latest security standards. 

By selecting lite versions, municipalities can enjoy the benefits of digital signage, such as real-time updates and interactive content, while adhering to budget constraints. This approach allows for a scalable solution that can grow and evolve as the community's needs and financial capabilities expand.

Leverage Community Partnerships 

Building partnerships with local businesses and community organisations is a strategic way for small municipalities to offset the costs of digital signage. By collaborating with these entities, municipalities can explore co-financing opportunities, where the cost of the digital signage infrastructure is shared. In return, partners can benefit from advertising space or the chance to promote community initiatives through the signage network. 

This collaboration not only helps to make the technology more affordable but also fosters a sense of community, unity and support, reinforcing the bond between the municipality and its stakeholders.

Choose Energy-efficient Screens 

Investing in energy-efficient screens is crucial for small municipalities conscious of both their environmental footprint and operational costs. Modern LED and LCD screens are designed to use notably less power compared to older models while providing brighter and more vibrant displays, all with a fraction of the energy consumption. 

By choosing to be sustainable, municipalities can reduce their electricity bills while ensuring their digital signage remains visible and effective throughout the day and night. Additionally, these screens tend to have longer lifespans, reducing the need for frequent replacements and thus offering better long-term savings.

Real-World Examples of Digital Signage in Governments

Exploring how digital signage is put into action offers invaluable insights into its versatility and impact. Across the globe, municipalities are embracing this technology to not only enhance urban living but also to foster a deeper connection between the government and its citizens. The following real-world examples illuminate the innovative ways in which digital signage is being utilised to improve public services and community engagement.

1. Interactive Kiosks in Wynwood, Miami 

In 2022, the municipality of Wynwood unveiled IKE (Interactive Kiosk Experience) – its first kiosk screen – to help people better navigate the city. In addition to being a wayfinding solution, the display that looks like a giant smartphone also recommends local businesses and fun activities that can be done in the area. 

As the audience reacted positively to this technology, the municipality announced they intend to expand the project by adding 150 more displays. 

2. How Cluj is Improving Citizen Health with Digital Signage

The city of Cluj-Napoca, located in Romania's western region, is making smart use of digital displays to promote healthier lifestyle choices. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation freely, performing twenty squats in exchange for their ticket. This initiative reflects that municipalities can also be smart by caring about the well-being of their citizens.  

Conclusion

In today's digital age, the adoption of digital signage across public sectors signifies a leap towards more efficient, accessible and sustainable government operations. From enhancing the city experience and improving internal communication within public offices to engaging citizens with real-time updates and facilitating public transportation, digital signage fosters innovation in governance.

Its adaptability and cost-effectiveness make it an ideal solution for municipalities of all sizes, ensuring that the benefits of digital technology are not just confined to the private sector but are extended to enhance public services and civic life. As we have explored, digital signage solutions for government offices are leading the way toward a future where technology and governance work together to improve communities globally. This includes promoting public health, ensuring safety with outdoor digital announcements and enhancing public transport accessibility and enjoyment.

References 

[1]. www.aiscreen.io/blog/digital-signage/digital-signage-statistics-2024/#id-4

[2]. www.apollotechnical.com/workplace-communication-statistics/