Whether you're looking to increase foot traffic in your store, communicate important messages to employees, or simply enhance your branding efforts, digital signage software can help. 

But you may be wondering: What is it, and what does it do? 

In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about digital signage software, from its features to the different types available. Let's get started.

What Is Digital Signage Software?

Digital signage software is a content management tool that typically includes features such as scheduling, remote management, and analytics to help you create and regulate content for digital displays.

Software for digital signage is an essential component of any digital network since it allows users to manage their signs from a central location.

Additionally, digital signage software typically includes a wide range of features and tools that can be used to create a variety of content, including:

• Static content: This category covers any content you can set up and run on a loop, typically using a simple playback machine.
• Dynamic content: This type of content is dynamically served in real-time using data integrations. Examples include displaying a news feed, the weather, or even your latest social media posts. 

Digital signage software is used in conjunction with hardware such as digital signage displays and media players to make up a complete digital signage solution.

What are the Common Features of Digital Signage Software?

Digital signage software typically includes a range of features that enable users to create, manage and deliver content to their audiences. Common features include:

• Content Creation Tools: These enable users to create static and dynamic digital signage content using a range of media, including images, videos, text, and animations.
• Pre-Designed Templates: Many tools offer templates you can choose from, so you don't have to create your content from scratch every time.
• Content Editing Tools: Once you've created your content, you should be able to make changes on the fly, including adding or removing elements, changing colors or fonts, and so on.
• Content Scheduling: Using this feature, you can automate the process of showing your content without having to choose what to show manually.
• Remote Management: This allows you to manage your digital signage content from anywhere in the world using a cloud-based interface. 
• Analytics: Most digital signage software includes some form of analytics to see how effective your content is. 

When choosing a software package, make sure to check that it includes all of the features that you need. Below is a quick reference chart that shows you the common features available across the different types of digital signage software:

What Are the Different Types of Digital Signage Software?

There are many different types of digital signage software on the market, ranging from simple tools that allow users to create basic content to more complex platforms that offer a wide range of features and tools. 

They typically fall into one of three software categories: free software, loop players, and premium solutions.

Free Software

As the name implies, this type of digital signage software is, well, free. These free tools only provide basic features intended for creating slideshows or playing premade videos.

The main advantage of this type of software is that there are no upfront costs or monthly fees, making it a good option for those who are just getting started with digital signage and want to try it out without investing any money.

While there are some great free options out there like Canva, PowerPoint, and Google Slides, they usually come with some pretty big limitations, such as:

• Compatibility: Since free digital signage software was not developed specifically for creating digital signage content, you are likely to encounter compatibility issues.
• Reliability: Free digital signage software may not be as reliable or robust as paid options, so it is important to do your research before selecting software.
• Missing Content Management Features: There's no way to schedule or remotely manage your content with the free digital signage software, so you'll need an external service if that's something important for your business.

A free platform may be a good option if you're looking for a simple tool to create and deliver basic content. However, if you need more advanced features, you may need to consider a paid subscription.  

Loop Players

Loop players are a step up from free digital signage software. They're designed for the continuous playback of video and audio content. 

One of the main advantages of using a loop player is that it's a simple way to play content on your digital signage. All you need to do is add your content to the loop player and set it to play. 

This is a good option if you need to display information that doesn't need to be updated very often, like doctor office displays or directories.

However, there are also some disadvantages to using loop players, such as:

• Content Limitations: They're often quite limited in terms of the content you can play, meaning you'll need another solution if you want to display something it doesn't support.
• Flexibility: Once you've added content to the player, it can be difficult to make changes which can be a serious problem if you need to adjust your content regularly.
• Capacity: If you have a lot of content that you want to play, you may find that your player will start to lag or even freeze.

Overall, loop players are ideal for businesses that want to use digital signage but don't need all the bells and whistles of a premium solution.

Premium Digital Signage Software

Premium digital signage software is the most feature-rich and customizable option. It's designed for organizations and businesses that need the most flexibility and power when it comes to their digital signage. 

This type of software usually comes with advanced content management features, such as: 

• Advanced Content Management Features: Streamline content creation and keep everything fresh with a content editor, scheduler, pre-built templates, and centralized control.
• Dynamic Content Support: Create interactive digital experiences and never run out of fresh content thanks to advanced data integrations and API webhooks.
• Scalable Security: Secure your digital signage network seamlessly as it grows with granular access control, SSO, and user roles to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
• Remote Access: Choosing cloud-based software can be excellent for companies who are managing multiple locations and have large teams because it offers them remote access to your digital signage network. 

Additionally, premium digital signage software often includes features that allow businesses to track analytics and measure the effectiveness of their digital signage campaigns.

Premium digital signage software is the most feature-rich and customizable option, but it also comes with a higher price tag.

Take Your Digital Signage Network to the Next Level with Wallboard

If you're looking for a digital signage software solution that will let you create a truly dynamic and engaging experience, Wallboard is the perfect solution for you. 

Our cloud-based software comes equipped with all the features and functionality you'll need to create and edit content for your signs with ease.

From content creation and management tools to real-time data integration and reporting, Wallboard has everything you need to take your digital signage network to the next level.

Don't settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your digital signage needs. Contact us today, and let us show you how our software helps you achieve your goals.