Digital Signage Solutions

According to an article on eCampusNews, digital signage is set to take off for higher ed in 2011. But already seven+ months into the year has it? 

That's the multi-million dollar question. Data from Northern Sky Research showed that 1,500 higher ed campusses added digital signage in 2010, totaling 8400 individual screens. Average it out and those are only 5-6 screen networks. I'm not minimizing the number but those aren't very big networks. Northern Sky shared that 13,000 screens will be installed in 2011, about a 50% increase. 

I just haven't seen that level of interest from universities or colleges here in the U.S. In my opinion, the interest seems to have declined in broader campus communication (with so many smartphones in pockets and backpacks) BUT has increased in more niche areas within schools. 

For example, the interest we've received are schools looking to use digital signage to update donor boards and other donor recognition efforts, replacing the traditional plaques and posters. And by going digital, you can recognize donors in much more timely and dynamic ways. 

Another number shared by Northern Sky is that 97% of college students prefer digital communication over printed. This really should come as no shock to anybody, with maybe the exception of wondering who those 3% are who prefer print. 

I'd love to hear from readers their feedback about communication on college campuses and if digital signage has taken off like Northern Sky expects it to. 

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Flickr image courtesy of kristyhall

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