Are digital signs more effective than traditional ones?

Signs are everywhere, disseminating important information from businesses to consumers. Signs can serve many purposes, from advertising a product to providing directions to the restroom. Brands spend time and effort selecting signage to achieve specific business goals. In the past, traditional printed signs such as banners, signs, posters, and vinyl graphics were the only options available. Today, innovation has expanded the possibilities with the advent of digital signage.

Digital signage enhances the ability of businesses to connect with their target market through a rotating screen. While digital signs are very useful, printed signs can still come in handy. Depending on the situation, a printed sign may be more appropriate than a digital one, and vice versa. This guide will help you understand the pros and cons of digital and traditional signage so you can choose the best option to achieve your goals.

Digital and traditional signage

Signs are used by companies to increase brand awareness, provide information, or simply for decoration. The purpose of the sign, its size and location are just a few of the many variables that determine which style is the best option. Let's look at these terms to help you choose the best sign for your business.

1. Purpose

The purpose of creating a sign is one of the most important points when choosing between digital and printed options. If you need a sign to indicate your office meeting room, then a traditional poster is the obvious choice. However, a digital display may be more convenient for highlighting a restaurant's daily specials. The ideal option is not always obvious, and there are times when both styles seem like a reasonable choice. Determine your goal first, and then consider the remaining parameters to help you choose the best sign option.

2. Space

Signs can be stretched along the sides of a building or wrapped around elevator doors. The size of the room in which the sign is intended to be placed determines the choice of a digital or printed version.

Printed signs can be made in an endless number of shapes and sizes, allowing you to make the most of almost any space. Digital signs also come in a variety of lengths and widths, but are usually limited to a rectangular shape, making them less versatile. Traditional signs can be wrapped around irregular spaces, while digital signs are better suited to flat surfaces and open areas. Choose a sign that will fit into your space and make the biggest impression.

3. Location

In addition to the size of the room, when choosing a sign, it is important to consider its location. Digital and printed signs can be used both indoors and outdoors, but other aspects of the location will help you determine the best option.

Is there power supply? Digital signs are very attractive, but they require power to operate. In today's developing world, it is easy to find electricity to power digital signage. However, in some cases it makes more sense to use printed signs. If you're promoting your brand at a festival in an open field with no access to electricity, a branded tent can make an impression while off the grid. 

4. Reliability

The effective operation of digital signage depends on a number of components, which, in addition to the screen itself, may include a Wi-Fi connection and a modern content management system. The mechanisms that make an eye-catching digital sign work can malfunction, causing the sign to stop working for a short period of time. By learning how to operate the technology, you can ensure your digital signage is running smoothly 24/7.

Due to the simplicity of the physical design, traditional signs are the most reliable option. A properly installed, high-quality printed sign will last for many years, or until you decide to take it down.

5. Cost

Cost is an important part of the equation for any marketing project. A sign is an investment, and choosing the right design will help you make the most of your budget.

Most projects require a larger investment to purchase a digital signage. However, once a digital sign is installed, it can display advertisements, upcoming events, special announcements and other important messages for many years. Over time, digital signage can save you money on advertising.

Printed signs are affordable and low maintenance, but they can be expensive to replace frequently. If you're launching a new product or rebranding, you'll need new signage. Replacing printed signs can cost a lot of money over time, depending on how you choose to use them.

6. Versatility

Digital signage is extremely versatile. You can display almost anything on them.