Business Accounter

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Digital Signage: Why Digital Signs Are Important

Often in this space, I explore a small slice of digital signage development, such as the role of digital signage in meeting the evolving media appetites of people; the ability of digital signs to blend the functions of traditional signs with the interactive aspects of digital kiosks; or the potential of digital signage to command an increasingly larger slice of the media budget of marketers.

While those are important topics, this month I want to get back to the basics of digital signage -specifically why should professional communicators turn to digital signage to convey their important messages?Actually, there are several reasons, including:


-To increase a company's visibility.

One of the biggest problems retailers have when it comes to self-promotion is cutting through all of the marketing noise generated by every other business -be it on radio or TV, in newspapers and magazines or from competing store front signs.Digital signage can cut through those distractions by attracting and directing the attention of the most important potential buyers of all -those in a store who are ready to spend money on a purchase.

-To help solidify relationships with customers and vendors.Consider an auto dealership waiting room with customers seated waiting for their cars to be fixed.With well-positioned digital signage messaging -as opposed to an ordinary TV displaying a cable news channel- the dealership can promote special offers aimed at its captive digital signage audience as a reward for choosing to do business with the dealership.Or, in a corporate setting, a digital sign in the lobby can be used to welcome scheduled vendors, guests and other visitors as they arrive -a simple move that builds goodwill.

-To deliver critical information more efficiently.In times of emergency, an existing digital signage network can be a lifesaver, providing critically important messages alerting employees, customers and other patrons of exit locations, storm shelters and other vital information.

-To save time.Preparing a static, printed sign is labor-intensive, expensive and time-consuming.The same message can be created and displayed far more quickly with a digital sign.Add to that the recurring expense of printing new signs as needs change versus simply updating a digital sign with a few keystrokes and it doesn't take long to begin earning a tidy ROI from a digital sign.

-To attract greater attention than is possible with static, printed signs.The other drawback of print is that it is static.Human brains are programmed for motion.Our eyes are automatically drawn to moving objects.Digital signs displaying full of motion video are dynamic not static.They tap into something that is innately human to demand attention and hold it.

-To increase the efficiency of employees.Imagine a small industrial plant where management wants to communicate vital information to hundreds of workers.Perhaps it's production quotas vs.actual performance; perhaps it's mean time between accidental employee injuries; perhaps it's delivery information regarding vital components that are en route.In all of these instances -and others too numerous to recount here- digital signage has the ability to convey important information to a workforce that is vital to employees maintaining a safe, efficient environment.

There you have it -several reasons why digital signage is an important, effective communications alternative that professional communicators cannot ignore.Sometimes it's good to get back to basics.

Digital Signage...
1) Can increase your company's visibility,
2) Can help solidify your customer and vendor relationships,
3) Can deliver critical information more efficiently,
4) Saves time,
5) Attracts attention better than static signs,
6) Can increase the efficiency of your employees.




And, digital signage can be less expensive than what you are already using.

What do you think?


About the Author

David Little is a digital signage enthusiast with 20 years of experience helping professionals use technology to effectively communicate their unique marketing messages.

For further digital signage insight from Keywest Technology, visit our website for many helpful tips and examples.

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Tuesday, August 5, 2008

How to Create Effective Business Cards

Everything in businesses today has become paperless with technological advancements introducing email, internet, scanning and others. However, the one essential paper item required for businesses and entrepreneurs which continues to be utilized effectively is a business card. A business card is very important to let customers, clients and possible investors take your information with them and remember you when the time comes. Have you ever been in a situation where youve bought something from someone and then you cant remember where the store is located or what its called That business provided you a service or product which you would have wanted to use or buy again. Because you cant remember the details you will be likely go somewhere else to buy that product or service. This should not happen to you and your business and so business cards assure you that customers will remember you. If you are in a business which requires exchanging information often with clients then having a business card will be useful.

Business cards needs to be perfect for others to get the right first impression about you. It is a way to tell others what your profession is, to give them an idea of how you will be able to help them and what services you can provide. A business card should reflect that you are a professional, you do your job well and you know what youre doing. There are many different styles for business cards but it is important to choose a style and layout which is organized and appealing to the eye. The basic essentials a business card should contain are your first and last name, your title or designation in the business, the name of the business, the service you provide if it is not obvious, and the options to contact you. The contact information should at least have a landline telephone number, a cell phone number if available, email address, website of the business, and mailing address. Remember, your business card is not a brochure, so dont make it confusing by listing too many services and products. If you really must list a few services you also have the option to list them on the back of the business card so your contact information stays clear and orderly.

Most business cards follow the horizontal layout design as it is easier to read and provides enough room to effectively space out every piece of information on the business card. Your name should be the most emphasized piece of information on your business card and should be styled with a bold and large font. The layout design for your business card is also important to plan because its the difference between someone thinking your business will be useful and having your card thrown in the trash. It would also be wise to follow the ideal size of 3.5 by 2 inches which will fit in any wallet. The quality of the paper used should also be taken into consideration so it will be durable and wont easily tear. People also judge you by the paper you use for your business card. If you use good quality paper for your card they will assume you take your business seriously and are a dedicated professional. Some even take the time to laminate their business cards so they are preserved better and last longer. Unique ideas are also followed such as printing business cards on wood, metal or plastic. The latest trend is to magnetize business cards so it can have 3 purposes: people use it on their fridge as a magnet, it creates a way for people to see your information often, and so they wont lose your business card.

The type of ink used to print your business card should be long lasting and permanent so if it gets moist the ink should not run. Colours used on your business card should be thought out carefully. Depending on your profession more or less colours will be necessary. For example, if your business is a craft and arts store then you might consider using more colours and innovative fonts to produce a creative layout which exemplifies your business. However, you have to know if its going to represent your business in the ideal manner. If you are a doctor or lawyer you would tend to use less colour and fonts and depict a crisp and concise business card. The font size chosen should not be too small otherwise it will be difficult for someone to read your details and information. It should be in a font that is easy on the eyes and clear enough that details can be quickly understood. Contact information should have the most information so you provide a variety of options for people to get in touch with you.

It is definitely a good idea to invest in quality business cards. Make sure that when you do, you follow the proper guidelines so they will be used to their full potential, bringing in more business for you and your company.


About the Author

SoloPress is a company dedicated to quality printing for

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