Content Management Systems (or CMS for short) have served as simplified interfaces for content delivery for quite some time, but in the world of digital signage the technology has struggled for standardization. The lack of proven technology in this field has led to delays in the growth of digital signs as an emerging medium.

All economically viable mediums must be accompanied by a method of administration that gives power to the user while eliminating the ability for administrative error. This is particularly true for digital media, as the technological trends that accompany them can seem daunting or overwhelming to those used to their traditional media counterparts. Until recently, many digital signage systems were limited in their accessibility, causing a need for outside consultation or specialists to manage and distribute content effectively and safely. The need for effective tools in digital signage content management has become very apparent, and many packages (including our own DA Portal CMS) have stepped in to fill that need. But what makes these content management systems so effective? What features are necessary to ensure that your digital sign solution will be easily customizable so that you can more effectively increase your ROI.

No Training Required

This seems like a reasonable request, but unfortunately with most content management systems the user is inundated with a complex array of options, tools, and information without an effective logical flow. A great CMS not only knows the tools necessary for the job, it knows what tools are not necessary. Ordinary user levels, for instance, may not be interested in the toolsets available to the administrative user, and may further confuse them. By simplifying the process to what the user needs to accomplish, you can help to ensure an intuitive management experience.

Powerful Administrative Tools

While this seems to fly in the face of our last point, it is critical that all components necessary for creating a successful campaign are available to the user. In terms of digital signage, these tools can be broken down into the following categories:

• Content Management & Manipulation
  Without these tools, the CMS doesn’t exist.
• Playlist Scheduling & Expiration
  An effective campaign includes dynamic content, as consistently fresh information can be the quickest way to maximize your ROI. These tools should allow for simple scheduling and expiration criteria for any media.
• Customizable Reporting Tools
  Powerful reporting tools will allow you to track your usage and keep up on your ROI. By allowing a certain amount of customization, these tools can provide you with the information necessary to increase your sign’s effectiveness and overall marketing strategy.

Remote Accessibility

A web interface for content management allows your users the ability to remotely distribute and schedule content from anywhere on the globe. With this newfound freedom, it will be easier than ever for users to view reports and modify content, making your campaign more effective and fresh.

For a demonstration of how our DA Portal content management system can suit your digital signage CMS needs, please contact Trustin Digital.