Digital Signage Done Right

Improve Student Communications with Digital Signs

EPISODE 152 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix

Optimizing the student experience is a core goal of every educational institution, whether it’s a college campus, a community college, a high school or an entire K-12 district. Digital signage can improve your student communications for higher engagement with them – as well as faculty, staff and visitors – but only if you have good content.

In this episode, we’ll give you an overview of the benefits of digital signage and how it works, and walk you through lots and lots of ideas for what to show on screens for both K-12 schools and higher education.

• Get dozens of content examples and ideas for what to put on screens
• Discover how screens drive immediate action and ROI
• Save time with ready-made content and centralized scheduling
• Hear how to target messaging to specific audiences for more impact
• Understand how digital signage ties into CAP emergency alerts

See the full transcript HERE

Get more content ideas in our free Digital Signage Content Guide HERE

Increase B2B Sales with Referrals

EPISODE 151 | Guest: Andrew Brown, president of Bridgemaker Referral Programs and co-founder of the Academy of Business Communications

B2B sales often involve big-ticket items. But big-ticket doesn’t always mean price – it can be time, resources, reputation, money and more on the line. Visix is a B2B digital signage solutions provider, so we understand the benefits and challenges that that entails.

In this episode, Andrew Brown walks us through some of the practical, actionable advice from his new book, Get Referred: How to Increase Sales Velocity, Volume and Value.

• Learn the benefits and business case for B2B referral programs
• Hear about ad hoc, value-added reseller and managed referral programs
• Understand why your employees and customers may not be your best referrers
• Explore barriers like the babysitter effect and reputation risk
• Discover B.R.I.D.G.E – a quick guide to successful referral relationships

 

See the full transcript HERE

Get the book Get Referred: How to Increase Sales Velocity, Volume and Value HERE

6 Tips for Sustainable Facilities Management

EPISODE 150 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

Sustainability matters. It matters to your employees, customers, shareholders and partners. It can affect your brand reputation, the health of your workforce and community, and of course, the environment at large. Most of all, it can have a huge impact on your bottom line. So how can facility managers start to make a difference?

We continue our discussion of why sustainability matters, give you six tips on how to get started and cast some predictions about the future of sustainable facilities management.

• Learn four ways that sustainability (or lack of) affects an organization
• Explore green technologies, innovations and processes
• Understand why engaging and educating stakeholders is crucial
• Hear the most common challenges and barriers to sustainability
• Discover how sustainability for facilities and society is evolving

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about our sustainable space management solutions HERE

Repurpose Office Space to Lure Employees Back

EPISODE 149 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

With hybrid work becoming the standard, many offices now feel noticeably emptier. However, there’s growing acknowledgment of the benefits that in-person collaboration brings to fostering innovation and maintaining a cohesive company culture – something that’s often missed in remote settings.

In this episode, we explore how to optimize your workplace to create a more welcoming environment for onsite staff, enhance employee engagement and collaboration, and, perhaps, entice more people to return in person.

• Understand why people want to come into the office (if it’s set up right)
• Discover the benefits to the organization of having more in-office collaboration
• Get 15 tips on how to revamp your workplace to make it more appealing to employees
• Learn about new types of spaces, amenities and technologies
• Hear how even small offices can transform their facility without breaking the budget

See the full transcript HERE

Get more hybrid communications advice in our free Guide to Engaging Remote Employees

Office Wayfinding for the Flexible Workplace

EPISODE 148 | Guest: Jill Perardi, senior director of professional services for Visix

Office wayfinding is an often overlooked but essential element of modern workplace design, especially for large buildings or hybrid offices that offer flexible spaces. It can play a key role in improving productivity and employee satisfaction, and help to encourage people to come back to your facility.

In this episode, we’ll discuss the fundamentals of this new kind of wayfinding that businesses are using to help people find their ideal workspace, connect and collaborate with teammates, and improve the employee experience.

• Understand how office wayfinding differs from traditional wayfinding
• Discover the benefits for a flexible office and hybrid workforce
• Hear about in-office directories, different types of interaction and booking options
• Learn how to tie into directories for people, space reservations and events
• Get an overview of Visix creative and customization offerings

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about workplace wayfinding from Visix HERE

 

Smart Scheduling for the Hybrid Workplace

EPISODE 147 | Allison Cohen, director of strategic partnerships at Tango

Hybrid workplaces aren’t new, but they’re definitely evolving. In this episode, we dive into how data-driven reservation and occupancy systems are revolutionizing the hybrid workplace. Discover how these innovative solutions are not only making office spaces more efficient and cost-effective, but also creating a more engaging environment that attracts employees back to the office.

We explore real-world examples, discuss the technology behind these systems, and share insights from experts on how companies can leverage this data to optimize their workspaces and enhance the employee experience.

• Learn about Tango’s platform of connected real estate solutions
• Hear what works and what doesn’t work in hybrid office seating
• Understand how space utilization metrics can shape strategic decisions
• Explore how reservation systems can influence workplace happiness and culture
• Discover how you can make hybrid offices more appealing to attract employees

 

See the full transcript HERE

Find out more about all Tango solutions HERE

Gen Z is Changing the Way We Communicate (for the Better)

EPISODE 146 | Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Gen Z makes up 32% of the world’s population, and they have unique perspectives on technology, culture and communication, being the first true digital natives. They are expected to overtake baby boomers in the workforce this year, and any business looking to attract and retain this talented bunch will have to adapt or perish.

Gen Z is pushing us to be more honest, more equitable and more innovative in our communications. In this episode, we’ll look at what’s important to them and how to evolve your messaging to better engage Zoomers in the workplace:

• Understand Gen Z priorities like transparency, authenticity and inclusion
• Explore how Zoomers blend online and IRL connections
• Get tips on the types of messaging, designs and channels they prefer
• Debunk common misconceptions about this generation
• Hear some common Zoomer slang for the workplace

See the full transcript HERE

Get more communications tips in our Communications Planning Guide HERE

 

The Future of Corporate Digital Signage

EPISODE 145 | Guest: Jason Cain, region sales manager – South Central for Visix

Businesses of all types have been using digital signs for internal communications for years. But with the rise of more complex data sources, IoT, AI, AR and other technologies, corporate communicators are finding new and innovative ways to reach and engage their audiences.

In this episode, we do some future forecasting with Jason Cain, looking at what corporate digital signage managers and content creators are doing now, and how that might change over the next few years.

• Explore how data-driven content will be optimized, personalized and targeted
• Discover how IoT and AI will affect content creation, delivery and analytics
• Learn how mobile and multi-screen experiences will provide expanded engagement
• Understand how interactive experiences will evolve with voice and gesture controls
• Hear how cloud, sustainability and security will all be major factors in future systems

See the transcript HERE

Get more content ideas in our free Digital Signage Content Guide

How to Grow Community with Digital Signage

EPISODE 144 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix

Community can mean different things to different people. It can be a local neighborhood, a corporate culture, a campus student group or a network of peers. And the definition of community is changing as participation grows in more online platforms, channels and causes that may overlap or even conflict with traditional IRL connections.

No matter whether you’re trying to keep at-home and in-office employees feeling united, grow ties between your organization and the local community, or promote social awareness and activism, digital signage can help.

• Explore all the different types of communities (some you may not have thought of)
• Understand the importance and ways of keeping hybrid employees in sync
• Hear five ways digital signs can promote ties to your external community
• Get some best practices for how to keep community messaging engaging
• Learn about creating audience dialogues through feedback and calls to action

See the full transcript HERE

Get more content ideas in our free Digital Signage Content Guide HERE

This episode marks the beginning of our sixth year! 

IC24 Roundup

EPISODE 143 | Guest: Brian Galante, founder and owner of Dimension PR

If you didn’t make it to InfoComm 2024, listen to this episode as we dive into the highlights. Brian Galante shares his insights on the rapid development of AI in content creation, the push for sustainable solutions and the future of hybrid meeting spaces with USBC connectivity. Discover how these technological innovations are shaping the pro AV industry and what they mean for the future.

• Hear about some major themes and new technologies at IC24
• Discover how AI is being integrated into digital signage and pro AV products
• Explore advancements highlighted on the InfoComm Esports Live 2.0 gaming stage
• Learn about the shift of meeting room solutions to simplifying connectivity
• Get a quick overview of new Visix products unveiled at the show

See the full transcript HERE

See what Visix highlighted at InfoComm 2024 HERE

What IABC Can Do for Digital Signage Managers

EPISODE 142 | Guest: Maliha Aqeel, global chair of IABC, founder and CEO of The Ideas Collective

As a digital signage manager, you might not have had any formal training in the systems and methodology used by communication pros, but that doesn’t mean you can’t access that vast knowledgebase.

The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) enables a global network of communicators working in diverse industries and disciplines to identify, share and apply the world’s best communication practices. And they are here to help.

• Hear the benefits of IABC membership and attending the World Conference
• Explore IABC resources available to members and non-members
• Learn how to leverage relationships inside your organization for efficiencies
• Understand the power of storytelling for a positive, fulfilling experience
• Get links to lots of IABC resources you can use today

See the full transcript HERE

Get more communications advice in our Masterclass Guide for Communications Planning HERE

 

InfoComm 2024 Preview of New Products

EPISODE 141 | Guest, Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix

InfoComm is the largest professional audiovisual event in North America, with education and certification courses, live events and panels, and thousands of new products and technologies on display. Whether you’re a manufacturer, integrator or end user, InfoComm 2024 is the place to be.

Listen to this episode for a quick preview of what Visix will be showing in booth C8135 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, June 12-14. Not only will we be demonstrating our latest software features, but we’re also unveiling some new products and solutions.

• Hear about Visix’s digital signage ecosystem and how it’s grown
• Understand how interactive experiences are making a comeback
• Explore what’s included in our sustainable space management offering
• Explore four ways to show space reservations and schedules
• Get a free exhibit hall pass with our VIP code

See the full transcript HERE

Learn about what we’re showing at IC24 HERE

Why You Need a Training Subscription

EPISODE 140 | Guest: Fanette Ronjat, professional services consultant for Visix

Digital signage isn’t PowerPoint – it’s an enterprise business system. If you’ve invested in a content management system to inform and engage your audience, you need to know what it’s capable of, how it integrates with your existing systems, and how best to use it to achieve your goals.

In this episode, we discuss why a software training subscription is a critical part of launching a successful digital signage strategy. 

• Learn what’s included in the Visix training subscription
• Understand how it can help you work faster and smarter
• Explore how to find out if you already have a training subscription 
• Discover both free and paid training options from Visix
• Hear about other resources and services to help you succeed

 

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about our Training Subscription HERE

Blue Sky Ideas for Digital Signage

EPISODE 139 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Digital signage is becoming so commonplace that people are starting to find some truly unique and exciting new ways to use it. Using online research and some suggestions from ChatGPT, we’ve gathered some interesting and unusual ways to use digital signage in a number of environments, some of which are being done already, while others may happen in the near future.

- Hear about mood, relaxation, education and storytelling-driven screens

- Explore digital animal adoption and dynamic cemetery memorials

- Get examples of how AI and AR might complement digital signage

- Discover what may be included in next-generation restaurant boards

- Learn about real-time translation, digital town hall boards and more

 

See the full transcript HERE

Get more content ideas in our free Digital Signage Content Guide here.

Sustainable Digital Signage & Why It Matters

EPISODE 138 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix

Sustainability is on everyone’s mind, so it’s natural that organizations of all types are looking for ways to reduce power and waste. Modern digital signs have come along way down this road, and innovative new technologies and platforms are getting us ever closer to carbon-neutral solutions.

• Hear about the green push in facilities management and commercial real estate
• Understand the challenges, benefits and long-term ROI for eco-friendly organizations
• Learn how governments, consumers and employees are driving sustainable innovation
• Explore energy, cost and waste savings from using digital signage compared to printed materials
• Discover new technologies and products that address environmental goals

 

See the full transcript HERE

Learn about sustainable space management here.

Internal Comms Trends for 2024

EPISODE 137 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

What are internal communications professionals focused on this year? In this episode, we take a look at multiple surveys and sources to see what the top themes and priorities are, and discuss how they might affect digital signage managers. Some trends have continued from last year, while others present brand new challenges and opportunities in our rapidly changing IC environment.

• Hear how 2023 trends have continued to evolve
• Discover how hybrid work, new tech and channel mix are changing workflows
• Explore how people experience (PX) is becoming more crucial
• Learn how IC pros are making content more engaging
• Understand the continued, and increasing, importance of AI

See the full transcript HERE

Download our free Guide to Better Communications in the Agile Workplace

5 Design Tips to Boost Viewer Engagement

EPISODE 136 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix

Boost viewer engagement with these five easy content design tips: prioritize readability, design for the specific environment, maintain brand consistency, leverage storytelling and embrace interactivity.

In this episode, we give you practical advice to create compelling communications that make people put down their phones and pay attention to your digital signs. With a few tweaks to your messages, you can grab more attention, make more impact and boost ROI. 

- Think about how to design from the viewers’ perspective
- Understand basic design principles for impact and understanding
- Leverage storytelling and campaigns for more memorable messaging
- Embrace interactive elements for both static displays and touchscreens
- Learn the importance of testing, adjustment and measurement

 

See the full transcript HERE

Get more content design tips in our free Digital Signage Design Guide.

Choros Features and FAQs

EPISODE 135 | Guest: Trey Hicks, COO & CSO of Visix, Inc.

Choros is a revolutionary new space booking solution that lets you book any kind of shared space or asset, in any kind of environment, using just a smartphone. There’s no app to download and admin tools are all in the cloud, so you never have to download or update anything. Use Choros by itself, or combine it with ultra-low-power availability lights and/or epaper signs for maximum flexibility and choice.

In this episode, we step through some FAQs we’ve collected, going over Choros features and all the ways this simple solution can be modified and expanded to meet any organization’s space management needs.

- Understand how easy Choros is to set up and use

- Walk through the user-friendly WebAR interface and admin options

- Explore how EPS signs can support Choros in hybrid offices

- Discover new ultra-low-power availability lights

- Learn how Choros interacts with your calendar system to provide schedules and backend analytics

 

See the full transcript HERE: https://www.visix.com/podcasts/choros-features-and-faqs/

Learn more about the Choros WebAR space booking platform: https://www.visix.com/space-booking/ 

 

ISE 2024 Wrap Up

EPISODE 134 | Guest: Brian Galante, founder and owner of Dimension PR

Integrated Systems Europe, the largest event of its kind anywhere, happened recently in Barcelona. We talk about some of the technologies and trends we saw there, as well as what these new innovations might mean for the future of audiovisual communications, workplace technologies and the return to office movement.

• Discover the big themes and biggest wow factors at the show
• Learn how sustainability is influencing the show and new products
• Hear how AI and analytics are being integrated in to all types of AV/IT tech
• Explore the surge in room sign and space booking technologies
• Understand how interoperability and integration are shaping the industry

See the full transcript here.

Learn more about Integrated Systems Europe here.

Uncommonly Common Uses of Digital Signage

EPISODE 133 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Digital signage has become so ubiquitous that people are finding new and innovative ways to transcend common uses of digital signage, expanding the technology’s reach into more uncommon contexts.

In this episode, we cover some of the newest ways organizations are using their screens to communicate to , connect with, and immerse their audiences in unique experiences. And yet these, too, will be more widely adopted and will eventually become, themselves, commonplace.

- Understand the most common uses for digital signage today

- Hear how digital wayfinding is being expanded to parking garages

- Learn creative uses for queue management and smart restaurants

- Discover how screens are enhancing libraries, museums, galleries and public artwork

- Explore shopping enhancements using mirrors, digital signage, AI and IoT

 

See the full transcript HERE

Get more ideas in our Masterclass 3: Digital Signage Content Guide

IoT and Environment-Aware Digital Signage

EPISODE 132 | Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

The Internet of Things (IoT) is increasing connectivity in new and interesting ways that will transform the way we interact with our surroundings. Digital signs with sensors and IoT capabilities will become environmentally-aware, and as circumstances around the screens change, they’ll be able to alter what they’re showing (and how they’re showing it) automatically, with no human intervention at all.

Digital signage is no longer just a one-way push communications tool. It’s become responsive in ways previously undreamed of. And this creates a number of exciting opportunities for communications and the viewer experience.

- Hear the evolution of the Internet of Things and how it works

- Understand how increased connectivity has brought about unprecedented changes

- Discover how organizations are already using IoT in innovative ways

- Learn how digital signage is becoming more responsive to external factors

- Explore some of the possibilities in both the near and far future

 

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about digital signage systems with our Overview Masterclass Guide

Content Planning Using the OASIS Model

EPISODE 131 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

No communication strategy can be successful without a good plan in place. There are many models out there to choose from, but the OASIS model is a perfect fit for people who are responsible for managing digital signage and other internal communications platforms. By using the five pillars of OASIS, anyone can develop and maintain a comprehensive plan for creating content that’s sure to engage their audiences.

- Learn what the five pillars of OASIS are

- Hear the benefits of having a communications plan

- Understand how SMART goals apply within this framework

- Get concrete examples for each step

- Explore ways to tailor OASIS to your specific context and needs

 

See the full transcript HERE

Get more advice for digital signage managers in our Communications Planning Masterclass Guide

What Shakespeare Can Teach Us About Communicating

EPISODE 130 | Guest: Jennifer King, artistic director of Napa Shakespeare, tenured professor of theater at Napa Valley College, freelance theater director and corporate communications coach

When looking for advice on how to improve communications and engagement, you can do a lot worse than looking to the Bard of Avon, William Shakespeare, for inspiration. His use of language, his ability to engage different audiences simultaneously and the way he develops story all contain valuable lessons for communicators in the modern world.  

- Hear how word choice and brevity can elevate communications

- Learn why understanding your audience is crucial for a successful exchange

- Understand the use of story and character to engage audiences

- Explore how deep listening and a curious mindset can build bridges

- Discover the pros of vocal variety and the cons of filler words

 

See the full transcript HERE

Want communications tips specifically for digital signage software? Download our free guide.

 

10 Key Organizational Shifts for Leaders

EPISODE 129 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

McKinsey & Company has published a report about ten top-of-mind organizational shifts in that leaders are coping with and implementing. And these items are still relevant as we close out the year and enter a new one. Our times have brought some fundamental changes to the way organizations do what they do, and leaders must adapt or get left behind.

Whether or not you’re using our digital signage software, these topics are likely affecting your organization right now. And for communicators and content creators, awareness of and responses to these shifts will have to be integrated into future messaging and campaigns.

- Learn about the ten top-of-mind organizational shifts

- Understand how they’re relevant today, and will continue to be for some time

- Hear concrete statistics for how these shifts are affecting employees and businesses

- Explore how changes in the culture today will affect operations tomorrow

- Discover four action items for implementing change now

 

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Learn more about how to apply this to managing digital signage in our free white paper: Corporate Communications for the Modern Workforce

Wayfinding Templates for Tight Budgets

EPISODE 128 | Guest: Jill Perardi, director of professional services for Visix

Time and money constraints shouldn’t stop your organization from having professional-looking interactive content on your digital signage. Interactive wayfinding templates are an attractive and affordable solution for environments that are less demanding than others.

Every design starts from a standardized template, but comes to life with your own branding, ADA controls, light and dark modes, and more. Your audience gets exactly what they need, and you don’t break the bank. But there are more benefits than just cost, and more available than just maps.

- Understand what wayfinding templates are and what they include

- Discover the benefits of wayfinding and directory templates versus custom projects

- Get real-world examples and applications in various industries

- Hear about two new interactive packages from Visix

- Learn what’s needed to make sure your project runs smoothly

 

See the full transcript HERE

Get more ideas for touchscreen designs in our white paper: Touchscreens for Audience Engagement