Choosing a screen of the correct size for its position is important. A screen that is too small is easily overlooked. Conversely, you wouldn’t want a screen to dominate the space you are going to install it in.
Shared areas are usually the best place to put a screen. A retirement village may use multiple screens in different locations, each with a different function. A smaller care home may only have a single screen.
If the intention is for the screen to become a focal point for everyone, the content needs to easily readable and the screen needs to be in a place that doesn’t inhibit emergency exits, doors or other busy areas.
Consider the viewing angle and how far from the screens people will be. High on a wall, angled slightly down works if the screen is large. Lower and flat to the wall is best if the screen is smaller and people want to get close to read the information. Remember, using a modern clean font is best for making it easy to read.
Aside from the physical size of the screen take care to choose a good resolution. We talk about High definition. This is probably the most used screen resolution in the home. But, 4K resolution was introduced a few years ago and it’s becoming very popular. The difference is partly one of clarity. A 4K screen has four times more pixels, which means the detail of what you put on screen is much better. As for prices, the gap has closed. A 4K screen is very closely priced to the older HD screen.
We know funds are scarce, but if you can, you should try to buy one of the commercial screen options now available. Your screen will probably be on for many hours every day of the week. A domestic TV simply isn’t designed to be run like this. Over recent years the power consumption for new screens has dropped and most are rated good to very good.
Commercial grade screens are designed to run 24/7 in environments where the screens are rarely turned off because of the nature of their function e.g. a hospital A&E department. A recent introduction has been the Hospitality grade screen. These are designed for use of up to 16 hours a day. Choosing the correct screen for your purpose is important and could ultimately save you money despite the higher, upfront cost.
Summary
- Consider where the screen(s) going to be placed. Shared areas where people naturally meet are best
- Purchase the right size screen for its position
- Avoid siting a screen where bottlenecks occur or will inhibit easy access to doors and other exits
- Use modern clean fonts for text. They are easier to read
- Buy the best resolution screen you can afford
- Always buy a commercial screen if you can. They are cheaper in the long run
We’re here to help make choosing a digital signage system simple. Talk to us today about your needs and we’ll make a plan together.