Digital signs are one of – if not the – prime methods of extolling the virtues of the local area. From images and video providing close-up views of natural wonders to drone footage, QR codes, essential information and more, it provides an endless landscape of content possibilities, all of which can be uploaded and automated with just a few clicks.
There are no hard and fast rules about attracting and engaging visitors through digital signage – all it takes is a little imagination and creativity.
The Benefits of Digital and Its Technicolour Glory
As humans, we’re all naturally attracted to things of beauty, bright lights and movement. This is where digital screens come into their own – it’s the only type of advertising that taps into all of these.
While the power of words plays a big part (well-written descriptions can harness emotions and desire to see something up close for yourself), nothing hits the spot quite like the sensory experience that a digital screen offers. Let’s talk, for example, about The Pinnacles – an otherworldly sprawl of limestone pillars in the Namburg National Park. Measuring anything from a few centimetres to five metres in height, these incredible geological structures are tens of thousands of years old.
This tourist attraction is a prime example of how images and video provide the best hook for people not to miss out on such a unique spectacle. A slide show that showcases the wonders of this phenomenon, such as the ever-changing shadows as the sun climbs through the sky, the enormity of the Milky Way above with zero light pollution, or the chance to spot kangaroos, emus, echidnas and other wildlife, can run on a loop.
Advantages of such advertising include:
- It provides answers to many of the common questions visitors may have, freeing up staff to get on with other day-to-day tasks.
- Informs people of aspects of the attraction that they might not otherwise have been aware of.
- Can include a link or QR code for people to get more information or book online tickets.
- Creates urgency and a desire to visit.
What to Include on a Digital Sign
While there are no laws about what should be included, there are definitely elements that shouldn’t be missed. One big advantage that digital signs have over printed ones is the scope for content. If there’s too much info for a single screen, then it can be extended over two or more that run consecutively. However, it’s important to remember that less is more, which is why using images and video to do most of the ‘talking’ is preferable, with words only used to highlight essential information, like:
- Opening hours.
- Any special considerations (closed on Sundays, 24/7 access, park fees, etc).
- Weather warnings or unexpected closures.
- Special events.
- Travel times or public transport options.
These are just some examples – each attraction (and, indeed, visitor centre) will have its own informational requirements. Maybe there could be an updated daily list of wildlife spotted, a weather forecast or a reminder to stock up on water before you visit, for example.
Location, Location, Location…
Where to best site a digital sign will depend on many things. An urban visitor centre might have this located outside, so catching the attention of passers-by or tourists who might be hurrying past on their way to something else. It might also be noticed by those on a tourist hop on-hop off bus, if the centre is located on a regular route or the centre is a pick-up point.
For smaller centres that may have more of a captive audience, perhaps because this is where all visitors start their visit, then an interior digital sign might be the answer. Exactly where it should be will depend on the layout, but make sure it’s in an obvious place with high footfall.
What Makes a Great Location for a Digital Sign? is all about access and getting the maximum number of views. Don’t be afraid to experiment with where it sits to understand the optimum placement.
Of course, nothing says a centre should be limited to a single screen. A combo of interior and exterior screens is a good option for larger locations.
iCatcher Digital Screens offer one of (if not the) best and largest range of options in Western Australia. Outdoor and indoor signs, double-sided signs, full-colour and video and everything in-between, we’ve got the right type of sign for your visitor centre needs.
Contact our friendly team today for a no-obligation chat.