Digital Signage Done Right: Recent Episodes

Visix

Get practical advice from experts on systems, communications, content and design. Whether you’re using digital signage, or just considering it, we can help you communicate better.

DSDR has won a 2022 Gold Quill Award, the 2021 AVA Digital Award Gold, 2021 Silver Davey Award & 2020 Communicator Award of Excellence, and on numerous top 10 podcast lists. https://www.visix.com/news/visix-digital-signage-done-right-ranks-as-top-communications-podcast-for-2020/

EPISODE 189 | Host: Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Every K-12 school juggles three very different audiences on the same screens: students, staff, and visitors. This episode breaks down how to build a content strategy for K-12 digital signage that speaks to all three without turning any one group's messages into background noise.

From recognition templates and safety alerting to QR codes, gamification, and AI-assisted design, we cover the tools and habits that keep a school's screens relevant, tested, and ready for whatever the day brings.

Learn how to serve three school audiences from one system
Discover recognition and event ideas that boost engagement
Understand how CAP alerts turn screens into safety tools
Explore QR codes, gamification, and content campaigns
Get tips for using AI to speed up content creation

See the full transcript HERE

For a full breakdown of content ideas by audience and location, see our companion guide: K-12 Digital Signage: Content Ideas and Best Practices HERE

EPISODE 188 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Great digital signage doesn't happen by accident – it happens when design keeps pace with what audiences actually notice. Falling behind on visual trends means your screens start blending into the background right when attention is hardest to earn. This episode is for anyone who wants their content to feel current, not dated.

AI content tools promise speed, but speed without direction just gets you generic results faster. Used well, though, AI can make you a more efficient, more creative communicator. Tune in to learn how to turn AI from a shortcut into a real design advantage.

Discover the color, typography, and style trends defining digital signage in 2026
Learn how to write an AI prompt that actually gets you the result you want
Understand why your first AI result is rarely your best one
Explore the AI tools built into AxisTV Signage Suite
Get quick tips for keeping bold designs readable at a distance

This episode marks our 7th anniversary!

See the full transcript HERE

Get more tips in the article Design Advice for Digital Content Creators: A Complete Guide HERE

EPISODE 187 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix, Inc.

InfoComm 2026 returns to Las Vegas June 17–19, and this episode previews what Visix is bringing to Booth C7814. Rather than chasing the "AI everywhere" hype, the conversation focuses on the practical technologies making a real difference for the workplace.

The centerpiece is wireless ePaper. With most companies now operating in a hybrid model, ePaper has become a focal point for what Visix can offer both end users and integration partners, including a new 32-inch true-color ePaper display and smaller signs for huddle rooms, desks, and shared spaces.

Discover how ePaper signs power hybrid workplace solutions for room and desk booking
Explore the new 32-inch true-color wireless ePaper sign making its debut at the show
Understand why hybrid work is driving triple-digit growth in workplace ePaper adoption
Learn how built-in AI assistants speed up text and image creation in AxisTV Signage Suite
Hear how the BrightSign partnership and Series 6 players fit into the Visix lineup

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about what we’re showing at InfoComm 2026 HERE

EPISODE 186 | Guest: Matt DuBois, director of partner sales for BrightSign

Digital signage doesn't work without a media player, and BrightSign makes the most popular one in the world. The iconic purple box has long been the hardware backbone behind countless digital signage deployments across virtually every industry, and the new Series 6 takes things a step further by building AI capabilities directly into the player for the first time.

AI in digital signage is still in its early stages, but it can now power use cases that were out of reach just a few years ago – from safety detection on manufacturing floors to personalized retail experiences. The technology is evolving quickly, and this episode explores what that means for the future of the medium and why the best applications may not even be invented yet.

Discover why BrightSign is the world's most popular digital signage player
Understand why a purpose-built OS strengthens security and reliability
Learn how AI has been integrated into the new Series 6 player lineup
Explore real-world AI use cases already emerging across industries
Hear why the possibilities for AI in digital signage are still just getting started

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about BrightSign Series 6 players HERE

EPISODE 185 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Internal communications is at an inflection point in 2026. This episode breaks down the six major trends redefining the profession – from helping employees navigate continuous, layered change to understanding why every internal message must now pass a "screenshot test." With change fatigue ranking as one of the biggest workforce challenges, communicators who shift from event-based messaging to ongoing orientation frameworks will drive real impact.

To thrive in this rapidly evolving landscape, IC professionals need to rethink not just their tactics, but their entire professional identity.

Learn why change fatigue is now a top workforce challenge and how to combat it
Consider using AI as a strategic partner, not just a writing tool
Explore why the internal-external boundary has collapsed
Hear about the emerging trend of microcommunities and employee-led comms
Avoid common pitfalls as you craft your communications plan

See the full transcript

Get tips in our Guide to Better Communications in the Agile Workplace

EPISODE 184 | Guest: Brian Galante, President Americas for Copper Leaf Media

Fresh from ISE 2026 in Barcelona, this episode takes a look at what's shaping the AV industry right now. From the rise of ePaper displays to the quiet but significant shift toward USB-C connectivity, the show made clear that innovation today is less about spectacle and more about making technology simpler, smarter, and more connected.

AI was everywhere on the show floor – some of it genuine, some of it marketing buzz – but the real story at ISE 2026 was interoperability. Platforms, sensors, and devices are finally coming together in meaningful ways, and emerging standards like IPMX are helping AV and broadcast technologies work seamlessly across IP networks.

Discover why ePaper is becoming the go-to solution for room signs and digital signage
Learn how USB-C is simplifying AV setups and replacing legacy wiring
Understand what IPMX standards mean for AV interoperability
Explore how AI is delivering real value in captioning, camera tracking, and room automation
Hear what ISE 2026 reveals about where AV technology is headed

See the full transcript HERE

See a video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, with images and videos taken right from the ISE 2026 show floor.

EPISODE 183 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

In today's workplace, meeting fatigue and email overload are driving organizations to rethink how they communicate. This episode explores asynchronous communication – a method that allows people to receive and process information on their own schedule rather than requiring everyone to be present simultaneously. Unlike traditional meetings or real-time calls, asynchronous methods respect people's time, reduce interruptions, and accommodate diverse schedules across shifts, time zones, and work arrangements.

Digital signage emerges as a particularly effective asynchronous tool, delivering information that's continuously available without demanding immediate attention. The discussion covers practical applications across various industries, along with content strategies, best practices, and how to integrate digital signage into a broader multi-channel communication approach.

Understand synchronous vs. asynchronous methods and when each works best.
Learn to combat meeting fatigue and protect employee "flow states."
Discover how digital signage engages with non-intrusive, always-available information.
Explore asynchronous content ideas for corporate, healthcare, and campus environments.
Get actionable advice on integrating digital signage into a multi-channel communication strategy that balances synchronous and asynchronous methods.

See the full transcript HERE

Need content ideas? Grab our free Digital Signage Content Guide HERE

EPISODE 182 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix, Inc.

Digital signage has evolved far beyond decorative displays and electronic posters – it’s now a critical business system that directly impacts productivity, operational efficiency, and bottom-line results.

This episode challenges outdated perceptions of digital signage as merely a creative or facilities concern, revealing how modern implementations integrate with enterprise systems to deliver real-time data, performance metrics, and strategic communications across entire organizations. From manufacturing floors displaying live production KPIs to hospital wayfinding systems that guide patients via mobile devices, today's digital signage requires C-suite attention and cross-departmental collaboration.

You'll learn why treating digital signage as strategic infrastructure rather than an expense delivers measurable returns through improved employee engagement, enhanced visitor experiences, and real-time operational visibility.

Understand how digital signage integrates with business systems to influence the bottom line in real time.
Learn why C-suite buy-in and cross-departmental collaboration are essential for successful deployment
Discover three red flags of underutilized systems: poor design, lack of integration, and insufficient saturation
Explore how displaying KPIs and leaderboards drives measurable productivity improvements and morale
Hear practical ROI insights and how cloud-based systems transformed signage into affordable investments

See the full transcript HERE

See digital signage solutions and examples for every market HERE.

EPISODE 181 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

This episode explores the critical role digital signage plays in bridging communication gaps and energizing public participation in local communities. Moving beyond static posters and outdated bulletin boards, we discuss how dynamic, real-time displays can be a game-changer for promoting local happenings, increasing attendance, and fostering a stronger sense of community identity.

We delve into actionable strategies and content examples for public-facing screens in various settings, including government buildings, libraries, and chambers of commerce. From engaging residents with civic information and interactive wayfinding to supporting the local economy and disseminating critical public health and emergency alerts, discover how to leverage visual communications to inform, connect, and inspire your community.

Learn strategies for promoting local events with dynamic schedules, countdowns, and QR codes.
Understand how institutions can use real-time updates, policy summaries, and interactive wayfinding for civic engagement.
Discover content ideas that build community pride, like local hero spotlights and showcasing arts/culture.
Get tips for using digital signage to support the local economy with dynamic job boards and "shop local" campaigns.
Explore best practices for critical and emergency communications, focusing on public health and accessibility.

See the full transcript HERE

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

EPISODE 180 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Hybrid work presents unique challenges, with communication being the biggest hurdle. This episode dives into how digital signage systems are more relevant than ever for keeping a dispersed workforce connected and engaged. The discussion focuses less on the technology itself and more on specific, actionable content ideas that digital signage managers can implement to foster a shared sense of purpose and belonging, regardless of an employee's location.

We explore innovative ways to address common hybrid challenges like information silos, collaboration gaps, and culture drift. Additionally, we discuss the rapidly growing application of digital signage for seamless workspace management, including room and desk reservations, to improve the overall in-office experience.

Discover content for engaging remote employees, like spotlights and user-generated social feeds.
Understand key hybrid work challenges: information silos and culture drift.
Explore how to use signage for real-time workspace management and wayfinding.
Get tips on using visual content to boost company culture and motivation.
Hear why consistent messaging across all digital platforms is vital.

See the full transcript HERE

Get more tips in our free Guide to Engaging Remote Employees HERE

EPISODE 179 | Guest: Brandon Glassmaker, application support analyst for Visix

While ePaper hardware is simple (battery-powered, no cables), getting a large system running requires precise technical groundwork. This episode covers why IT professionals are vital for the initial setup of this enterprise software and focuses on the crucial back-end setup, including networking hurdles, essential port configuration, and preparing your event data source.

Whether you're planning a small deployment or a massive rollout, you'll discover how the process scales and why ePaper's wireless, low-power nature makes it an increasingly dominant technology in the visual communications space.

Understand essential networking needs and data source preparation for EPS.
Hear a step-by-step rundown of the ePaper implementation process.
Learn how ePaper's battery power and RF communication simplify installation (no cables!).
Discover that scalability mostly impacts time, not the difficulty of the deployment process.
Explore the role of RF transmitters, their range, and environmental factors that affect signal strength.

See the full transcript HERE

Get more information about ePaper desk and room signs HERE

EPISODE 178 | Guest: Trey Hicks, COO & CSO of Visix, Inc.

The rise of hybrid workplaces and office hoteling has created a need for better room and desk booking solutions. While LCD signs were an early option, ePaper has emerged as the superior technology that's more efficient, sustainable and cost-effective, especially when deployed at scale. The age of LCD signs for workspaces is over, and ePaper displays are now the go-to choice for the modern workplace.

We take a deep dive into the practical advantages of ePaper over traditional LCDs, focusing on the massive difference in total cost of ownership (TCO). Our conversation covers the "Big Three" factors – acquisition, installation and maintenance – to show how ePaper's wireless, battery-powered design saves significant time and money, avoids network congestion and creates a cleaner, more professional aesthetic. It's a practical breakdown of why ePaper is simply a smarter investment for any organization embracing flexible office models.

Discover how ePaper creates a seamless experience for office hoteling and hot desking.
Learn why ePaper's total cost of ownership is significantly lower than LCDs at scale.
Understand how ePaper simplifies installation and maintenance compared to wired LCDs.
Get the details on the massive energy savings and sustainability benefits of E Ink technology.
Explore various applications for ePaper signs, from desk booking to digital nameplates.

See the full transcript HERE

See our four different ePaper sign specifications and learn more HERE

EPISODE 177 | Guest: Jill Perardi, senior director of professional services for Visix

A culture of recognition actively builds a more positive and productive environment. Publicly acknowledging achievements and positive behaviors isn't just a morale booster; it's a strategic tool that directly impacts the bottom line. It fuels engagement, strengthens loyalty and significantly improves retention by tapping into the fundamental human need to feel valued as part of a group. In any setting – from corporate offices to school hallways – a strong recognition strategy transforms a collection of individuals into a motivated and cohesive community.

Moving from the "why" to the "how," this episode details the advantages of using digital signage for recognition over traditional methods like plaques or trophies. We cover practical applications, from interactive donor boards and digital yearbooks to celebrating employee milestones, showing how modern technology can help build a stronger, more connected community.

• Learn why public acknowledgement is a powerful driver of behavior and culture.
• Understand the advantages of digital recognition over traditional plaques and trophies.
• Discover recognition signage ideas for corporate, education and healthcare settings.
• Get tips for implementing a recognition strategy, from content mix to display placement.
• Explore how to create a living history with interactive storytelling and recognition.

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about our interactive recognition boards HERE

EPISODE 176 | Guest: Phil Epple, software support specialist for Visix

A successful digital signage deployment doesn’t just happen – it’s the result of careful planning. The crucial step between purchasing your system and captivating your audience is implementation.

In this episode, we break down the technical and logistical steps for a painless launch, emphasizing that setup is first and foremost an IT project that demands the right people, careful planning and a clear understanding of your network environment. We’ll walk through key pre-implementation checklist items so you can avoid common hurdles and ensure your system launch is smooth, fast and professional.

Learn why successful implementation is an IT project, not just an AV one.
Understand the two-phase process for a seamless system launch.
Discover the most common technical issues that can cause delays.
Get a breakdown of pre-implementation and IT readiness checklist.
Explore different player options and their respective advantages.

See the full transcript HERE

Download our Networking Guide to get all of the details you need to build and deploy an AxisTV Signage Suite system HERE

EPISODE 175 | Guest: Jennifer Razzano, director of internal communications for 84.51˚

There is no single secret sauce for effective internal communications. Because your audience and messages are varied, your strategy must be too. A successful multi-channel communications approach means using the right channel for the right purpose, ensuring employees know where to go for specific information and how to engage. This involves creating a clear purpose for each platform – from email and intranets to instant messaging and digital signage – and making them work together seamlessly.

This episode breaks down practical steps for creating a robust, tiered communications plan. It’s not just about pushing information out; it’s about fostering two-way dialogue, building community and strengthening company culture.

Learn why a single-channel approach fails and a multi-channel strategy succeeds.
Discover how to define a specific purpose for each of your communication channels.
Understand the power of two-way channels for boosting engagement and community.
Explore how to coordinate channels for major events and story-driven campaigns.
Get tips for securing leadership buy-in by connecting culture to the bottom line.

See the full transcript HERE

Get specific advice for digital signage communications in our Free Masterclass Guide HERE

EPISODE 174 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

Change is inevitable in business, but with 70% of change initiatives failing due to poor communication, organizations need strategic approaches to guide their teams through transitions successfully. This episode explores how internal communications serves as the cornerstone of effective change management, breaking down the critical phases from pre-change preparation through post-implementation reinforcement.

Digital signage and multi-channel communication strategies play a vital role in reducing resistance, building trust and maintaining team alignment during organizational shifts. Discover practical content examples and communication frameworks that turn potentially disruptive changes into opportunities for growth and employee engagement.

Key Takeaways:

Learn why structured communication reduces change resistance and increases success rates.
Discover pre-change strategies that build anticipation rather than anxiety.
Understand real-time progress updates and visual reinforcement during transitions.
Explore post-change communications that reinforce new behaviors and celebrate wins.
Get practical digital signage content ideas for each change management phase.

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more in our Guide to Better Communications in the Agile Workplace

EPISODE 173 | Mark Malaney, systems engineer for Visix

Digital signage is a powerful communication tool, but its connectivity to your network also makes it a potential target for security threats. A breach can lead to downtime, reputational damage or even a compromise of sensitive company data.

This episode demystifies the world of digital signage security, breaking down the most common vulnerabilities and risks that every organization should be aware of. We explore actionable, real-world strategies to harden your digital signage deployment against attack. From the fundamentals of network segmentation and data encryption to the importance of physical security and choosing the right technology partners, you'll get a clear roadmap for creating a secure and reliable digital signage ecosystem.

Learn about the unique security vulnerabilities of different digital signage media players.
Understand common threats like social engineering, malware and man-in-the-middle attacks.
Discover best practices for securing your network, including segmentation and encryption.
Get expert advice on the importance of physical security and keeping your software updated.
Explore key security considerations when choosing hardware and software providers.

See the full transcript

Want to learn more about digital signage networks? Download our Digital Signage Systems Overview Guide

EPISODE 172 | Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Choosing the right content for your digital signs can feel overwhelming, but an effective strategy is rooted in one key factor: your organization's structure. The way your company is built – whether it's a traditional hierarchy, a dynamic matrix or a decentralized network – fundamentally shapes its culture, workflows and communication needs.

This episode unpacks how aligning your visual communications with your company's framework can help you prioritize and produce better messaging. We explore seven distinct organizational structures and give you specific, actionable content ideas designed to reinforce your company’s goals, improve the employee experience and make your internal communications more effective than ever.

Identify which of the seven most common organizational structures your company uses.
Learn to tailor messaging to the communication flows and cultural values of each model.
Discover dozens of content ideas for each of the different frameworks.
Understand why a call to action is vital for every message and how to craft one.
Explore using audience feedback to continuously improve your digital signage content.

See the full transcript HERE

Want more content ideas and inspiration? Download our Digital Signage Content Guide HERE

EPISODE 171 | Guest: Melissa Sartin, senior creative content artist for Visix

Displaying data on digital displays is a powerful way to keep your audience informed, from showing KPIs and production metrics to progress on company-wide initiatives. But how should you design these messages? What are some of the considerations to keep in mind when trying to make complex information understandable and engaging for your audience?

It’s more complex than a simple text message, but when done right, data-driven content is inherently eye-catching and incredibly useful. This episode breaks down the key design considerations to ensure your data is not just seen but understood in a matter of seconds.

Learn to avoid the most common design mistakes, like information overload.
Discover how to intentionally use color, contrast and motion for maximum impact.
Understand the differences between data visualizations and data mapping.
Get tips on using color and visual hierarchy to "tell a story" with your data.
Explore the first steps for success, from planning your goals to testing designs on screen.

See the full transcript HERE

Get more digital signage design advice in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design HERE

EPISODE 170 | Guest: Jennifer Razzano, director of internal communications for 8451

Ever feel like your message gets lost in the shuffle at work? You're not alone. Many organizations grapple with keeping everyone on the same page, and the fallout from communication hiccups is bigger than you might think.

In this episode, Jennifer Razzano explains why effective communication is much more than a "soft skill" – it's a vital driver of success. Join us as she unpacks the hidden financial and productivity costs of falling short and learn her expert strategies for building a workplace where people feel heard, valued and connected.

How many hours does each employee waste per week on unproductive communication? The answer might shock you.

Understand the true financial and productivity costs of ineffective communication.
Get stats that prove that communication is a "need-to-have" for organizational success.
Discover the crucial role of empathy in anticipating employee needs.
Explore how to use the "Think, Feel, Do" model to craft messages that resonate.
Hear a framework for building key messages (What, Why, Who, When, What's Next, and How).

See the full transcript HERE

Get specifics for your screen content in our free Digital Signage Communications Planning Guide

EPISODE 169 | Guest: Alejandra Ramirez, founder of Ready Cultures

Many organizations mistake communications tactics for a cohesive strategy. They focus on pushing out messages without a clear vision of the behavior they want to influence or the business objectives they aim to achieve. This approach often leads to disconnected efforts, confused employees and a failure to build a strong, unified corporate culture.

We explore how to move beyond simple message delivery to create a truly strategic internal communications process. Get insight into frameworks and philosophies that turn communication from a reactive tool into a proactive, culture-shaping force and critical driver of your bottom line. And learn how to ensure your communications are designed to elicit specific, measurable actions that move your entire organization forward.

• Discover the crucial difference between communication tactics and strategy.
• Understand how communication drives employee behavior, belonging and alignment with company goals.
• Learn the 3H framework (Head, Heart, Hands) to make messages more meaningful and actionable.
• Explore how to align leadership behavior and incentives with your communication strategy.
• Get a framework for communicating complex news with clarity and purpose.

See the full transcript HERE

Get more communications advice with our Free Digital Signage Communications Planning Guide HERE

EPISODE 168 | Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

This episode takes a deep dive into the impactful world of digital signage content specifically tailored for coworking environments. From optimizing space management and fostering community to providing valuable resources and promoting internal services, you'll uncover a wealth of actionable strategies.

Learn how thoughtfully designed visual communications can transform shared workspaces into dynamic, engaging and highly functional hubs for diverse professionals.

Learn why digital signage is a good communication tool for diverse coworking audiences.
Hear eight specific content categories with practical message examples for each.
Discover how to leverage digital signage to enhance wayfinding and streamline operations.
Explore how to use digital signage to promote internal services and boost your brand.
Get actionable tips on curating engaging content that automatically updates in real time.

See the full transcript HERE

Need more content ideas? Grab our free Digital Signage Content Guide HERE

EPISODE 167 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

Get an exciting preview of what to expect at InfoComm 2025 in Orlando, Florida. You'll get an inside look at the new digital signage products and solutions being unveiled at the show. But it's not just about the tech – Visix booth 3543 will also offer a unique and cool visitor experience. Celebrating our 45th anniversary, the booth will feature a fun, nostalgic '80s theme with lots of giveaways, inviting attendees to explore our latest offerings and learn about our long history in the AV channel.

Discover the new BrightSign player support and the browser-based presentation designer.
Explore the rapidly growing electronic paper sign (EPS) solutions and their comprehensive space management applications, from rooms to individual desks.
Understand how hybrid work models are driving innovation in digital signage and space management technologies.
Get an exclusive sneak peek into the immersive and nostalgic booth experience awaiting visitors, including fun giveaways.
Hear about the company's 45-year legacy with the AV channel and their continued commitment to supporting the industry.

See the full transcript here

See more of what we’re showing at IC25 here

EPISODE 166 | Guest: Trey Hicks, COO & CSO of Visix, Inc.

This episode delves into the increasing popularity and key benefits of BrightSign media players in the digital signage landscape. Discover why these "purple boxes" have become a go-to hardware solution for a wide range of applications, offering robust and dependable content playback with a long lifespan.

We cover the unique advantages BrightSign players offer and how they integrate with AxisTV Signage Suite, giving users more choice when planning their digital signage solution:

Understand the core reasons behind BrightSign's widespread adoption.
Discover key differentiators between BrightSign and Visix media players.
Explore seamless integration of BrightSign players with AxisTV Signage Suite.
Get insights into the specific BrightSign models supported and their ideal use cases.
Learn about implementation, support and roadmap plans for BrightSign.

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about all of our digital signage media players HERE

EPISODE 165 | Guests: Jon Rappoport, founder and director of Rapid Fig, and Jennifer King, deputy director at Rapid Fig

We delve into the concept of cultivated communication and its importance in today's fast-paced world. Our guests explore the idea that great communicators aren't born but rather developed through strategy and practice. They discuss the need to move beyond simply sharing information and focus on generating receptivity and offering a clear path forward.

The conversation highlights the significance of intentionality, empathy and preparation in communication and emphasizes the importance of understanding your audience's needs and crafting messages that resonate with them. We also explore the power of interconnectedness of various communication skills and how to navigate high-pressure situations with poise and impact.

Learn to craft compelling messages that engage, influence and drive action.
Get practical advice on applying intentional communication frameworks to messaging.
Hear about generating receptivity and offering a clear way forward in every interaction.
Identify common pitfalls, such as focusing too much on oneself or not clarifying purpose.
Discover the power of storytelling to inspire, connect and reinforce priorities.

See the full transcript HERE

See what Rapid Fig does HERE

EPISODE 164

In a world saturated with audiovisual stimuli, this episode dives into the growing issue of digital overload. We explore the psychological effects of constant connectivity, from phantom vibrations to cognitive fatigue, and examine how this impacts our ability to focus and engage.

Understanding the challenges audiences face is the first step towards more effective communication.

Moving beyond simply acknowledging the problem, we provide practical advice for those working in digital communications. By focusing on genuine connection and recognizing the individual stories of our audience, we can create a more meaningful and less overwhelming digital experience.

Learn to recognize the signs and impacts of digital overload on your audience.
Understand the role of communications in contributing to or alleviating information fatigue.
Discover how to design digital signage content that respects your audience's attention.
Leverage recognition and community-building for higher engagement and less digital noise.
Use intentional, consolidated and automated content for a less overwhelming environment.

See the full transcript HERE

Get more tips on digital outreach for hybrid offices in our Guide to Engaging Remote Employees HERE

EPISODE 163 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

In this episode, we explore how to create content that not only looks good but also effectively conveys messages across various platforms, from intranets and social media to digital signage. We discuss the challenges designers face and examine practical strategies for overcoming these hurdles.

Listen to get actionable tips and resources for creating impactful digital content and internal communications, focusing on clear communication and timeless design principles.

Hear fundamental principles of good design for internal communications.
Understand the key challenges facing content designers today.
Discover current trends, and how to measure success.
Get practical tips for designing impactful digital signage content.
Explore tools and resources to improve design skills and adapt to evolving trends.

See the full transcript HERE

Need more advice on crafting digital communications? Grab our free Digital Signage Design Guide HERE

EPISODE 162 | Guest: Bryan Peck, VP of sales and marketing for Mazévo

Explore the fascinating journey of room scheduling and event management, from its humble beginnings with pen and paper to the sophisticated software solutions available today. We delve into the pivotal role of technology in streamlining these processes and how customers’ needs continue to drive innovation in this space.

It’s all about efficiency and understanding how to get the most from the tools available. Hear about browser-based solutions that help schedule spaces and resources, coordinate event teams and provide essential analytics for data-driven decisions.

• Hear the history of scheduling software and how this technology has evolved.
• Get inspired by how an array of features can enhance operations and improve efficiency.
• Dive into challenges faced by universities in scheduling spaces and how they can be overcome.
• Understand the benefits of using a solution like Mazévo for managing events and resources.
• Discover current trends and future predictions, including the potential impact of AI.

See the full transcript HERE

Learn how Mazévo can help you streamline your space and event management HERE

EPISODE 161 | Guest: Craig Lucie, founder and CEO of Lucie Content

Drawing from a wealth of experience in broadcast journalism, our Emmy and Telly award-winning guest, now leading a content strategy firm, explores how the fast-paced, results-driven approach of a news environment can revolutionize business storytelling, with practical insights into crafting compelling narratives for anyone looking to cut through the noise and connect with their audience on a deeper level.

Explore how to create content that not only informs but also resonates, humanizing your brand and driving measurable ROI. Hear actionable strategies for future-proofing your marketing and mastering the art of content creation in today's digital age.

Learn how to apply newsroom ideas and techniques to your content strategy.
Discover the three most valuable questions to ask when crafting a story.
Understand the power of leveraging owned media to gain earned media coverage.
Get strategies for utilizing video content and social media algorithms to maximize reach.
Recognize the importance of calls to action, ROI tracking and analytics to ensure your content delivers measurable results.

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about how to humanize your content at Lucie Content HERE

EPISODE 160 | Guest: Brian Galante, founder and owner of Dimension PR

Dive into the exciting innovations and trends at Integrated Systems Europe 2025. AI was a big theme, and we explore how it’s transforming the AV landscape, moving beyond theoretical applications to practical uses like automating everyday tasks, enhancing content creation, and even optimizing space utilization.

We look at advancements in DVLED technology, with its increasing flexibility and scalability for creating larger and more diverse displays. And we examine the growing emphasis on energy efficiency and product lifecycle management across a wide variety of products and industries.

• Discover how AI is being integrated into AV solutions for practical applications.
• Understand the increasing importance of sustainability and energy efficiency in the AV industry.
• Learn about the latest developments in DVLED technology and its expanding possibilities.
• Get an update on E Ink technologies as one of the industry’s biggest growth areas.
• Hear about some of the showstoppers that had attendees talking.

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about Integrated Systems Europe HERE

EPISODE 159 | Guest: Andres Avalos, chief product officer for OfficeSpace Software

The hybrid work model has become a permanent fixture in the modern workplace, but are you truly equipped to harness its full potential? In this episode, we delve into the critical components of a successful hybrid strategy, exploring the intersection of technology, strategic planning and evolving employee expectations. We also examine how forward-thinking organizations are adapting to this new paradigm and building workplaces that support both individual focus and collaborative teamwork.

We discuss the importance of data-driven decision-making and the need for a human-centric approach to hybrid workplace design. Join us as we explore the future of work and how businesses can create a thriving environment for their employees, both now and in the years to come.

Discover how OfficeSpace Software can help you effectively manage space and optimize the hybrid employee experience.
Understand the challenges and opportunities in navigating the evolving relationship between employers and employees in a hybrid world.
Learn how to align workplace policies with your talent strategy and company culture to boost productivity.
Explore the concept of a "Data Fabric" and how it can inform better decisions about real estate, resources and employee engagement.
Hear insights on how organizations can use AI right now and future-proof themselves for emerging technologies like advanced AI, AR and the Metaverse.

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about solutions from OfficeSpace Software

EPISODE 158 | Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

As we step into 2025, internal communication professionals face new challenges and opportunities. From prioritizing manager and frontline communications to addressing information overload, the landscape continues to evolve. Join us as we break down the latest insights and strategies to help internal communicators navigate the year ahead.

We explore key trends like streamlining communication channels, embracing new mediums, and leveraging data analytics to improve effectiveness. We’ll also discuss the ongoing importance of leadership participation, the role of personalization in cutting through the noise, and how generative AI is reshaping communication strategies.

Get tips to help you take stock of last year’s IC efforts
Explore longtail priorities that continue to resonate and evolve
Hear what’s top of mind for communications pros this year (lots of stats and links!)
Understand the impact of 7 of the top internal communications trends
Discover how to avoid common communications planning mistakes

See the full transcript HERE

Need more advice on crafting visual communications? Grab our free Communications Planning Guide HERE

EPISODE 157 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix

Digital signage is a powerful tool for promoting health and wellness in the workplace, encouraging positive changes that benefit both your employees and the organization as a whole. Not only does it demonstrate that management genuinely cares about its people, but it also boosts morale, strengthens company culture, and helps attract and retain top talent.

By displaying engaging, relevant content and campaigns, you can promote healthier habits, raise awareness about preventive care and improve overall wellbeing. The result? Fewer sick days, lower healthcare costs, and a happier, more productive workforce.

Discover eight tangible benefits of wellness messaging on digital signs
Get lots of ideas for individual messages and campaigns
Learn about content subscriptions and feeds that can help
Understand the impact of mental as well as physical health in the workplace
Hear how interactivity and gamification can increase engagement with wellness messaging

See the full transcript HERE

Get free digital signage messages HERE

EPISODE 156 | Content Planning for the New Year

Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Whether you’ve already started mapping out your content strategy or are still looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with actionable advice on creating a comprehensive content strategy and turning that vision into a practical content plan.

From defining goals and identifying stakeholders to understanding your audience and crafting content calendars, we break it all down into manageable steps. Listen for insights on tools, metrics and storytelling techniques to make your messaging more relevant, impactful and efficient. This episode will give you the framework and ideas you need to hit the ground running in the new year and set your team up for success.

Understand the difference between a content strategy and a content plan
Learn the different elements that need to be mapped out in both
Discover how this process can streamline workflows and increase engagement
Explore lots of online tools to help you at the macro and micro levels
Get lots of content ideas to start building your plan

See the full transcript here: https://www.visix.com/podcasts/content-planning-for-the-new-year/

Click here for free digital signage message designs to fill in your content calendar.

EPISODE 155 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Agile work is reshaping how organizations approach productivity, collaboration and workplace flexibility. By focusing on outcomes and empowering individuals, modern work practices can transform traditional structures into adaptable, efficient models for success.

In this episode, we break down some next-gen workplace terminology, talk about the history of agile and how it’s evolved, and give you practical advice to adopt and implement this new mindset.

Understand core agile principles and how it differs from hybrid and flexible models.
Explore how this mindset focuses on organizational outcomes over rigid processes.
Discover key benefits, like increased flexibility, collaboration and innovation.
Learn practical steps for transitioning your workplace, from pilot projects to full-scale adoption.
Hear best practices to overcome resistance, foster autonomy and support cultural change.

See the full transcript HERE

Get content and communications tips in our Guide to Better Communications in the Agile Workplace HERE

EPISODE 154 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Get ready to spread some holiday cheer on screen! In this episode, we’re diving into the magic of holidays content for digital signs and how planning ahead can make your campaigns not just easy, but truly impactful.

From eye-catching campaigns and fun contests to fundraisers and kudos, there’s so much more you can do than just share a single holiday message. Listen to discover creative ways to celebrate the season, attract more viewers and make your screens more engaging.

Hear lots and lots and lots of ideas for content and campaigns
Discover how to make your messaging more inclusive, authentic and engaging
Explore content ideas for basic holidays, lists and fun facts, social events and retail
Learn about some unusual holidays and traditions (baby jumping!)
Get links to popular websites to help you plan your content

See the full transcript HERE

Get more creative content ideas for your screens in our free Digital Signage Content Guide HERE

EPISODE 153 | Guest: Jill Perardi, senior director of professional services for Visix

Info kiosks let you put a wealth of information on a single screen, allowing users to search and explore on their own terms – enhancing both convenience and engagement. Plus, they can help organizations make a big impact without a big budget.

In this episode, we discuss the versatility of these tools across industries, from guiding visitors to engaging customers to celebrating achievements, and how interactive design elevates the user experience. Listen for some inspiration and get tips on how to plan and launch your own info boards:

Understand what an info kiosk is – the content versus the equipment
Discover the benefits of touchscreen info kiosks for various industries
Hear real-world use case examples of info kiosks and hall of fame boards
Learn best practices to plan and collate content for your project
Get some basic design and content tips for better audience engagement

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about affordable interactive packages from Visix HERE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

EPISODE141 | 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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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/

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

EPISODE 127 | Guest:Fanette Ronjat, professional services consultant for Visix

Digital signage content feeds are a fast and easy way to get content up on your screens. They look good, save you time and money, and are always up-to-date and relevant. Even if you have in-house designers, using content feeds can supplement your branded content, freeing up your folks to do more targeted messaging and campaigns. And the variety of content feeds is huge.

In this episode, we cover the basics of content feeds – what’s available, why you want them, how to set them up and how they can increase audience engagement.

Learn how content feeds save time and money, and increase engagement
Hear the pros and (very few) cons of using content feeds
Explore the most popular content feed subscriptions
Discover how easy it is to schedule auto-updating feeds
Understand how to choose the best attractors for your audience

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more content tips with our Masterclass 3: Digital Signage Content Guide

EPISODE 126 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Most organizations have communications for both internal and external audiences. If you’re sending mixed messages, or if those messages don’t reflect common branding and values, you can lose both employee trust and customer revenues

In this episode, we talk about the importance of aligning your internal and external communications, what the benefits are when you do, and some of the real bottom-line repercussions if you don’t.

Learn where internal and external communications should overlap
Understand the benefits of communications alignment
Hear why brand standards are just as crucial as consistent messaging
Discover the three Ts (transparency, trust and training) and channel maps
Get best practices you can start using today

See the full transcript HERE

Get more communications advice in our free guide Digital Signage Communications Planning

EPISODE 125 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix

A fast and easy way to get great-looking content up on screens quickly is by using digital signage templates. They’re already designed with digital signage in mind by professionals yet can also be adjusted to fit in with existing brand standards.

Digital signage templates also allow more people to contribute content while still maintaining consistency in the look and feel of your messaging. Even for an organization that has dedicated design and content creation teams, templates are an effective way to augment what’s on offer without sacrificing quality.

Understand the timesaving benefits of using digital signage templates
Discover how templates can democratize your communications
Get a rundown of all the templates provided in Visix software
Explore ready-made packs and kits for popular screen designs
Hear dos and don’ts for using digital signage templates

See the full transcript HERE

Get more design tips with our Masterclass guide on Digital Signage Design HERE

EPISODE 124 | Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Web 3.0 is almost upon us, and it will herald completely new ways for people to communicate with one another in person, online and in virtual spaces. Organizations need to get in front of this new tech to understand what’s coming and what’s possible. We take a quick look back at the birth of the web and Web 2.0, and then peer into our crystal ball to see what’s coming up for the online world as we all get more connected.

Hear the origins of the world wide web and how it continues to improve
Learn the basic of how the Semantic Web (3.0) will work
Understand six key aspects of Web 3.0
Walk through a typical day in the world of Web 3.0
Speculate about what late stage Web 3.0 and Web 4.0 will be like

See the full transcript HERE

Interested in future tech? Listen to our podcast episodes about the AI Age, AI Personas & Ethics and Using AI to Create Content

EPISODE 123 | Guest: Fanette Ronjat, professional services consultant for Visix

We’re drowning in data. Every organization has statistics, goals, deadlines and other info that they need to communicate to their employees, students, visitors and stakeholders. Making sure that data is accurate, timely and easy to understand is paramount. Data-driven content on digital signs can help.

In this episode, we walk through different types of data feeds, how best to get them onto screens, and the benefits and hurdles of designing good data-driven content for displays.

Understand the benefits of data-driven content
Hear lots of examples of what you can put on digital signs
Learn when to use text and when to use data visualizations
Explore the common mistakes and challenges involved
Discover how Visix digital signage software and services can help

See the full transcript HERE

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

VUCA & How Digital Signage Can Help

EPISODE 122 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

In this episode, we look at how business leaders and communicators can prepare for and react to the real and perceived effects of VUCA – Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity. To meet these challenges, they need to be diligent, flexible and adaptable at speed.

A good digital signage system can be an extremely valuable tool for delivering real-time, targeted and motivating communications to employees, stakeholders and the organization as a whole.

Join us as we explore how digital signage can help you adapt, communicate and lead with agility in a VUCA world, where change is constant, and uncertainty is the only certainty.

Learn the origin of VUCA and why it should matter to you
Understand why flexibility, adaptability and speed are crucial
Hear four reasons digital signage is a great tool in a VUCA environment
Explore how to combat VUCA with Vision, Understanding, Clarity and Agility
Get content ideas to combat each of the four VUCA attributes

See the full transcript HERE

Get more communications advice in our free guide: Digital Signage Communications Planning

Benefits and Tips for Digital Directories

EPISODE 121 | Guest: Jill Perardi, director of professional services for Visix

Giving people attractive, easy-to-read digital directories can save them time and improve the visitor experience. The trick is to plan ahead, know your audience’s needs and give them just enough information on screen.

We’ll walk you through the best practices and most common mistakes in digital directory design. Whether you’re using our digital signage software or need a custom directory design, this episode will get you started with practical tips and advice.

Hear the benefits of digital directories over printed signs and placards
Get advice on where to put your screen or kiosk
Learn about auto-updating directories tied to data sources
Explore different ways to make your directory interactive
Understand the basics of good directory design

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Grab our free infographic 8 Advantages of a Digital Directory

EPISODE 120 | The Evolution of Booking Spaces

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

People need to meet, work and thrive, no matter how their workplace or work schedule is organized. As hybrid models incorporate more office hoteling, hotdesking and other shared workspace policies, tech tools are having to adapt to meet more modern standards.

In this episode, we step through the history and challenges of space booking and how different technologies have improved the experience. We also give an overview of our new Choros WebAR space booking platform – the latest innovation for booking spaces.

Hear about the challenges of booking spaces before digital tools came along
Learn about the various room sign solutions that have been introduced
Discover the pros and cons of using space booking apps
Understand how simple QR codes can facilitate faster, easier reservations
Explore the advantages of BYOD space booking with Choros

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get our free infographic 12 Ways to Streamline Space Booking here.

Connect without Corporate Jargon

EPISODE 119 | Guest: Jennifer King, executive communication coach

Corporate jargon is something that’s used in every workplace, but does it serve the audience or the speaker? Jargon has its place and might be efficient, but it can often dilute, obfuscate and even offend. To communicate effectively, the needs of the listener have to be prioritized. Otherwise, things can go very wrong.

Thoughtful, intentional language is what’s needed to connect with today’s employees, visitors and customers. In every context, communicators need to remember that their target audience is people.

Understand why each interaction needs to be treated as unique
Explore specific jargon terms, and how they’re used and misused
Consider what unintentional messages certain language might be conveying
Hear how some terms can be dehumanizing
Learn which terms need to be discarded and which ones to keep

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

See more about Jennifer’s coaching by clicking this link

Common Technical Mistakes to Avoid

EPISODE 118 | Guest: Joe Murray, technical operations manager and lead systems engineer for Visix

We want to be sure that your digital signage software implementation goes as smoothly as possible. To that end, we’ve rounded up some of the most common technical mistakes we’ve seen in the past so you can avoid them. This is an episode we think your IT team will very much appreciate.

In this episode, Joe Murray walks us through some of the more common issues that can crop up before, during and after implementation, and gives practical tips on how to avoid them.

Learn the reasoning behind installing prerequisites on your own hardware
Explore the importance of domain policies, publishing ports and SSL certificates
Understand our three authentication types and why you should choose one early
Prevent misunderstandings about the OS version on Visix media players
Hear about wifi for players, video codecs and Windows Authentication on home PCs

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

For more systems info, download our free Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview.

Quick Guide to Digital Signage Benefits

EPISODE 117 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

The case has certainly been made for businesses needing digital signage, but what, specifically, can and should you put on your screens? In this episode, we give you a quick guide with 14 digital signage benefits and content ideas in just over 15 minutes.

Whether you have a digital signage system or are considering one, these tips will help you understand how digital signage can better engage your audience with dynamic visual communications.

Hear how digital signage can actually save you time
Explore realtime metrics and event schedules that auto-update
Discover ideas for improving space management
Understand why the visitor experience is everything these days
Learn how your digital signs can become a source of revenue

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

For a wrap up of these quick tips, download our infographic: 14 Things Digital Signage Can Do For You

IC23 InfoComm Preview of New Products

EPISODE 116 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix

In this InfoComm preview, hear all about the three (count ‘em, three) new products Visix will unveil at this year’s show that all aim to greatly improve the user experience. There’s support for a digital signage player that’s becoming ubiquitous, an affordable solution for office hoteling and hotdesking, and a brand new product that aims to completely disrupt the room booking industry and mindset.

Hear about Visix digital signage support for the BrightSign player
Explore the benefits of the new pocket-sized EPS 42 E Ink sign for office hoteling
Discover how the hybrid workplace is changing habits and expectations
Learn about Visix’s disruptive new space booking product Choros
Get information on where to find Visix at InfoComm 2023

See the full transcript HERE

Find out more about our new products premiering at IC23 here.

Digital Signage Today & Tomorrow

EPISODE 115 | Guest: Daniel Brown, editor of Digital Signage Today

The digital signage space is facing a period of rapid change that shifts the focus to the audience and the experience, instead of the message and the product. Innovations in workflows and approaches are being augmented by technological advances like holograms, IoT, AR and AI. Sustainability considerations have also come to the forefront of everyone’s minds. And, as always, it’s ultimately about the content you put up on your screens.

Learn why it’s all about the user experience today
Understand why DEI is important for today’s audiences
Hear how academic research is impacting the ways businesses communicate
Discover how coopetition is changing the way businesses interact with each other
Explore how advances in holograms and mixed reality are impacting many diverse sectors, from branding to healthcare

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

To see the latest in the world of digital signage on Digital Signage Today, CLICK HERE

Digital Donor Walls: Benefits & Tips

EPISODE 114 | Guest: Jill Perardi, director or professional services for Visix

Digital donor walls are being used by companies, non-profits, hospitals, schools and other organizations to celebrate and encourage philanthropy. Studies have proven that recognizing donors with a well-designed presentation on big screens can drive more donations than static plaques.

In this episode, Jill Perardi shares her design expertise and real-world client stories about the advantages of using digital donor walls to recognize donors and encourage giving.

Hear the benefits of digital donor walls and why they’re better than plaques
Discover how to create effective donor walls for static or interactive screens
Learn about preparation and budgeting for a digital donor wall
Understand the importance of good digital design and ADA compliance
Explore the use of multiple screens, touchscreens and audio

See the full transcript by clicking HERE

Get more design tips in our Masterclass 4: Digital Signage Design Guide by clicking HERE

Use AI to Create Content Today

EPISODE 113 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix, Inc.

AI is a hot topic these days, but can it really be used to help with digital signage content and other communications efforts? The short answer is, yes. Using just a few tools, and a basic knowledge of prompts, anyone can use AI tools to generate ideas and suggestions, text, images, videos and more.

Listen to find out how you can use AI to create content right now, and get lots of practical advice and links to get you started.

Understand how AI can help generate text for messages and campaigns
Discover AI tools for graphics, images and videos
Explore how prompts work and what to include in them
Hear how AI can act as an editor, scheduler and motivator
Get links to online tools you can start using today

See the full transcript by clicking HERE

For more content inspiration, download our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content HERE

EPISODE 112 | AI Personas & Ethics

Guest: Josh Bachynski, AI innovator and thought leader

Do you have certain employee groups or demographics you’d like to communicate with more effectively? Can you identify your ideal audience representative? Artificial intelligence can help, but Using AI tools to create personas and improve communication requires a solid understanding of their capabilities and limitations.

In this episode, we continue our conversation with Josh Bachynski to explore the current state of AI tools and how communicators can use them, what the future may hold, and the ethical considerations that will need to guide our development and use of these technologies.

Learn what personas are and how to create them using AI tools
Find out how AI can help you communicate better using employee personas
Understand the importance of learning how to leverage AI tools ASAP
Recognize the limitations and pitfalls inherent in current AI tools
Explore the ethical implications of using AI for business decisions

To see the FULL TRANSCRIPT, click HERE

Connect with Josh Bachynski on LinkedIn to talk about how you can use AI in your business today.

EPISODE 111 | Adapting to the AI Age

Guest: Josh Bachynski, AI innovator and thought leader

The information age is over. The AI age is here. With ChatGPT, Bard and other AI-powered chat agents exploding onto the scene, how we search for and interact with information is changing rapidly, and will continue to evolve at breakneck speed. Communicators will have to adapt quickly to adopt and leverage these tools.

In this episode, we have an insightful and thought-provoking discussion with Josh Bachynski, an innovator and thought leader in technology and artificial intelligence, on the current and future implications of AI for communicators and society at large.

Discover different AI categories and what’s available now.
Explore how AI will evolve and affect us in the very near future.
Learn about AI use in internal communications and marketing.
Discuss AI-powered chat agents, their advantages and limitations.
Get links and recommendations to start using AI chat agents today.

For the FULL TRANSCRIPT, click this link

Connect with Josh Bachynski on LinkedIn to talk about how he can use AI to help your business today.

6 Growing Content Trends for Digital Signage

EPISODE 110 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix

Content is anything you put on screens. Coming up with the subjects and formats for your visual communications is a daily challenge that shouldn’t be dictated by your content management software. To engage viewers, messaging needs to be driven by your audience’s interests, needs and expectations. Content trends aren’t only about what you say, but also how you say it.

In this episode, Ellyce Kelly walks us through six of the digital signage content trends we’re seeing. Get practical tips for new and expanded content to bring your messaging in line with current tastes.

Understand why keeping up with content trends is important
Learn about purpose-led and people-first communications
Get tips on why and how to produce video snippets
Explore increased data visualizations and interactivity
Consider alerts as part of your content strategy

For the FULL TRANSCRIPT, click this link here

Get more content trends and ideas in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content here

Internal Communication Trends for 2023

EPISODE 109 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

In the post-pandemic world, organizations have not only changed their physical footprints and in-office policies, they’ve had to reevaluate their priorities and processes to attract and retain valuable talent. The stopgaps that emerged in 2020 have evolved into more permanent, human-centric forms that are leveraging new tech and trends to meet reimagined goals.

In this episode, we step through 12 internal communication trends taken from experts and surveys across the industry, with practical tips you can start using today.

Understand how collaboration tools and techniques have evolved
Hear how visual content is being prioritized across communication mediums
Explore the “Purpose Revolution” and the roll of frontline management and leadership
Discover how communicators are prioritizing mobile, personalization and alignment
Learn how AI, analytics and evidence-based communications are changing everything

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more advice in our free Masterclass Guide on Digital Signage Communications Planning

ISE 2023 Wrap Up

EPISODE 108 | Guest: Brian Galante, president and co-founder of Dimension PR

Trade shows are one of the most important ways that vendors can introduce new products, check in on technology trends and form lasting partnerships. For the first time in years, crowds are returning to the show floor in full force to see what’s new in the AV/IT industry.

In this episode, we get a quick wrap-up of the major themes and products on show at this year’s Integrated Systems Europe show from Brian Galante.

Get the skinny on show attendance and vendor partnerships
Explore the growing crossover between residential and commercial markets
Delve into the main themes of the event: immersion, collaboration and sustainability
Look at hot products on the show floor: holograms, audio innovations and powerless displays
Hear about new space booking tech and trends for the modern workplace

Get the full transcript here

Learn more about Integrated Systems Europe here

How Digital Signage Helps Facility Managers

EPISODE 107 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix, Inc.

Facility managers have to keep the big picture in mind while juggling a lot of disparate systems and teams. Using enterprise digital signage software can help pull those systems together for a unified visual communications strategy. Combine message management with event schedules, wayfinding, emergency alerts and even space management – all managed from a single UI. Not only can it reduce workload and waste, but it also adds up to better employee, customer and visitor experiences.

Understand how digital signage fits into facility management
Hear how digital signage helps facilities remain relevant and competitive
Learn how integrated communications are more effective
Explore interactivity for events, wayfinding, menu and donor boards
Discover affordable e ink solutions for space management

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

For more systems info, download our free white paper: Simplify and Diversify Facility Management with Digital Signage

How to Choose the Right Digital Signage Player

EPISODE 106 | Guest: Joe Murray, technical operations manager and lead systems engineer for Visix

Digital signage is a system, and that system includes displays, content management software and some specialized hardware to get your content to the screens. Choosing the right hardware depends on what your content is, how many screens you’re feeding and where you want your media players to live.

Joe Murray walks us through the full line of Visix digital signage players and gives practical tips for how to choose the best options for your content strategy.

Understand what a digital signage player does
Learn why OS, processor and other specs are critical
Discover different mounting options for various form factors
Hear specs and use cases for Visix media players
Explore HTML5 playback options

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

For more systems info, download our free Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview.

See player specs on our webpage here: Digital Signage Media Players

Designing Menu Boards for Screens

EPISODE 105 | Guest: Jill Perardi, director of professional services for Visix

Menus can go digital and contain as much information as you like. But designing menu boards is not the same as creating paper menus, so you need to keep a few things in mind to have maximum effect and provide the best customer experience possible.

In this episode, Jill Perardi walks us through some best practices, and shares real-world successes and misfires you can learn from:

Understand the difference between printed and digital menus
Learn some design tips to make your menus easy to read
Hear how auto-updating content simplifies things
Discover how good menu board design affects revenues
Explore the possibilities of interactivity

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more design tips in our Masterclass 4: Digital Signage Design Guide

10 Digital Signage Tips in Under 10 MinutesEPISODE 104 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix, Inc.

As we approach the year’s end, we’re giving you our quick countdown of 10 digital signage tips that you can start using right now. Or you can work these into your content strategy when you get back to the office in the new year. Either way, isn’t it worth just 10 minutes of your time to improve your visual communications?

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more advice in our free Masterclass Guide on Digital Signage Communications Planning

Why Your Business Needs a Digital Signage SystemEPISODE 103 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

No matter what size organization you have, business digital signage is a necessary tool to engage employees, increase their productivity and further your business goals. This is just as true with a hybrid workplace as it is for someplace where everyone is on site all the time.

In this episode, we talk about how digital signage can help unify a disparate workforce, enhancing their interactions with your company and reminding them that they’re still part of a team.

Explore the difference between business digital signage and retail signage- Hear different benefits for different sized organizations- Learn how to include remote workers- Understand how localization makes your content relevant- Discover how simple managing a digital signage system can be

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

For more ideas, get our free white paper: Employee Engagement in the Digital Workplace

9 Quick Digital Design Tips

EPISODE 102 | Host: Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Whether you’re designing for digital signage software, PowerPoint presentations, social media or downloadable resources, you’ve got to nail the basics to break through to your audience. In addition to good graphic design, you need to understand your audience and the context of your messaging to communicate effectively.

In this episode, we give you nine practical digital design tips you can start using today to attract more viewers, engage them longer and ensure your communications are motivating them to act.

Understand how knowing your endpoint resolution is crucial
Explore six basic design principles (contrast, colors, fonts, etc.)
Learn to organize visual information for more impact
Hear how colorblindness, eye strain and ADA guidelines affect designs
Discover multiple ways to get your audience to interact and provide feedback

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Download our handy infographic to take these tips with you.

Digital Signs for Hotels & Hospitality

EPISODE 101 | Guest: Dave Leo, region sales manager – North Central for Visix

Digital signs for hotels and other hospitality venues are the most efficient way to communicate large amounts of timely information to visitors in an environment that’s constantly changing. Anything from wayfinding to advertising and even flight information can be updated quickly and easily on screens to give people the best guest experience possible.

And today it’s even easier to use this technology. Cloud-hosted options mean no more server rooms, and events and other feeds can be pulled from elsewhere to populate displays with eye-catching content that people want to see. Weather, alerts and other streams can all be automated to save your staff time and free them up for more personalized guest service.

Hear examples of how digital signs are being used by hotels
Discover how seamless it is to integrate with scheduling systems
Explore interactive wayfinding, emergency alerts and other content ideas
Understand the power of under-the-hood analytics
Learn how cloud solutions and third-party content can streamline system management

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

For more information, download our free white paper: Maximize the Guest Experience with Digital Signage for Hotels and Resorts

Using Design Themes on Your Screens

EPISODE 100 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Design themes are super useful for both launching and maintaining momentum on a digital signage system. It helps you maintain consistency, helps reinforce your branding and it makes things a lot easier for multiple content contributors. Most importantly, it makes your screens look good.

In this episode, we’ll walk through the different element of a digital signage design theme, talk about why you need one, and give you lots of inspiration and links to get started.

Understand what a design theme includes
Learn the benefits of using themes for digital signage
Get ideas for different types of design themes
Discover where to find theme inspiration
Hear about different ways to create a theme

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more screen design advice in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design

Digital Signage Analytics & Why It Matters

EPISODE 99 | Trey Hicks, COO & CSO of Visix, Inc.

A powerful tool for any communications efforts is digital signage analytics, which can not only give you an overview of how successful your messaging is but can also help drill down to something as granular as individual contributors.

In this episode, Trey Hicks from Visix discusses why analytics matters, what to look at and how to use that data to help achieve your digital signage objectives.

Learn what makes analytics data meaningful
Discover data tools that may be already built into your system
Understand the power of reports
Explore how power users can help others in the organization
Hear how to share analytics results effectively

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

See our blog on analytics: The Value of Communications Analytics

Seven Principles for a Data-Driven Workplace

EPISODE 98 | Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix, Inc.

Many of our clients use their digital signage software to show data and data visualizations on their screens. It’s a great motivator for your workforce and helps create a data-driven workplace for better decision making and higher productivity.

But how do you know what data to show and how to display it? Are you sure your employees understand it? Is it relevant and actionable? If not, you might need to rethink your strategy. Sean Matthews walks us through seven steps and real world examples that can help.

Understand what we mean by data-driven workplace and why data matters
Hear some surprising (and disappointing) workplace data literacy stats
Discover how data affects everyday decisions and workloads
Walk through seven principles of data literacy
Find out about our digital signage data integration features

Get the FULL TRANSCIPT

Get content tips to motivate employees in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content Guide

Emotional Connections through Internal Messaging

EPISODE 97 | Andrew Brown, co-founder of the Academy of Business Communications

It's not engagement, it's not communications, it’s not culture. Although each of these things play a part, none of them encompasses the whole idea nor the entire effort involved in forging emotional connections between an organization an its employees.

Andrew Brown walks us through what it takes to build emotional connections that benefit the wellness and success of both the organization and the humans involved in it. Whether or not you’re using digital signage, this is an episode that every comms and c-suite professional should listen to.

Learn why it matters and who it matters to
Understand the most common obstacles to connections
Answer three questions to define your organizational culture
Hear five key areas to focus on for building emotional connections
Get real-world examples of what to do and what not to do

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more advice and free tools on the Academy of Business Communications website

12 Workplace Motivation Ideas

EPISODE 96 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Attracting and retaining talent; employee health, wellness and satisfaction; efficiency and productivity – the success of your organization hinges on workplace motivation and how you’re engaging your workers, whether they’re in the office or working remotely.

In this episode, we cover some surprising stats that show employers are still falling short in the eyes of employees. We also give you some practical tips for what you can do to build a better culture with workplace motivation techniques and how that can translate to your digital signage system.

Understand how workplace motivation affect the bottom line
Learn what employees are saying they want from their workplace experience
Get 12 easy motivation ideas you can start using today
Discover how digital signage can supplement your HR and comms efforts
Hear where to find inspiration and tools that can help ease workloads

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more content tips in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content Guide

Retail Digital Signs: Worth the Investment

EPISODE 95 | Guest: Jason Cain, region sales manager – South Central for Visix

From shops to restaurants, campus bookstores to zoos, hotels and casinos to car dealerships – retail digital signs are being used to improve the customer experience, motivate staff and increase sales.

In this episode, Jason Cain talks through how lots of different retailers are using digital signage to engage their audiences, whether it’s with a single screen or across a worldwide chain. We’ll explore popular content for each environment, and some of his best real-world examples.

Learn the benefits of investing in retail digital signs for CX
Explore how interactivity can engage customers and boost revenues
Hear how retailers handle internal vs. public-facing communications
Understand the benefits of CAP-compliant alerts and analytics
Discover cool real-world digital signage applications and get tips

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Read our blog: 8 Benefits of Digital Signage for Retailers

Digital Signage Content 101: Getting Started

EPISODE 94 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Your company or campus just bought and installed a digital signage system. Your boss then tells you you’re responsible for keeping your screens full of realtime, engaging content. Yikes!

It’s not as scary as it sounds. With some basic training and a little inspiration, anyone can creative good-looking content for digital signs. We’ll walk you through how to get started and give you easy examples you can put into practice right away.

Get lots of examples of easy content for launch day
Understand how content goes from your desktop to screens
Explore auto-updating content, content kits and subscriptions
Hear how to build a content plan and calendar
Discover where you can find content inspiration and free content

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT

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

EPISODE 93 | Digital Signs for Local Government

Chip Kepner, region sales manager – West Great Lakes, for Visix

Government is all about people. Communicating essential information to both the public and employees can be a challenge with such a wide array of services and updates to convey. Whether it’s meeting agendas, wayfinding, weather or info boards, digital signs for local governments can help keep everyone informed and engaged.

In this episode, Chip Kepner gives us a quick overview of the way that digital signage is being used in city, county and local administrative offices to support both internal and public-facing communications:

Learn about different types of government offices using digital signs
Discover common content for both the public and employees
Explore interactive options like wayfinding, directories and info boards
Hear about messaging to mobiles, websites and public access channels
Get info on CAP alerts, analytics, localization and scalability

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more content ideas in our white paper: Streamline Communications with Digital Signage for Government Agencies

EPISODE 92 | Guest: Jennifer King, performance coach with Stand & Deliver

Communication is about language. Words matter, but so does the intention behind those words, the feeling or action you want them to inspire, and the way you deliver them. This is true in any context, whether it’s digital signage messaging, email, Zoom meetings, one-on-one conversations or presentations to thousands.

In this episode, which marks our third anniversary, Jennifer King, theater veteran and performance coach, walks us through some tips for how to make your communications more impactful and inclusive:

Understand how intention shapes your language skills
Learn how to flip your mindset from yourself to your audience
Appreciate the power of the pause
Hear how to get to the point and ensure people will remember it
Explore tips for writing, speaking, videoconferencing and Q&A

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Stand & Deliver is a consulting and training firm that primes organizations for high-performance communication and leadership.

EPISODE 91 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

The hybrid workforce has changed the way organizations connect employees to the company, the mission and each other. Although new tech and tools are part of the equation, some good old-fashioned employee engagement techniques are evolving to take center stage in the battle to build community over distances.

In this episode, we look at eight trends that internal communications professionals are leveraging to ensure everyone feels informed and engaged in the modern workplace:

Learn how a hybrid workforce has changed the way we communicate
Understand that adopting new tech is essential, but not the end-all
Explore using more visuals, mobile-first designs and distributed communications
Hear how communicators are focusing on EX, recognition, wellbeing and participation
Appreciate the importance of frontline managers for message reinforcement

See the full TRANSCRIPT

Get more tips in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning Guide

Free Digital Signage Software Isn't Free

EPISODE 90 | Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix, Inc.

Lots of people advertise free digital signage software on the web. But is it free? Do these apps come with hidden costs, limited features or lackluster support? Most importantly, will the free software you’re considering adapt to your needs or force you to adapt to it?

In this episode, Sean Matthews walks us through what to watch out for when considering a free CMS to manage your digital signs, what types of environments should and shouldn’t use them, and how to frame your software search to match your strategy.

Hear the difference between free software, freeware and open source
Walk through the pros and cons of free signage software
Find out what “free” might mean (trial, demo, pilot, hosting, etc.)
Consider how services, updates and security are affected
Learn the questions to ask before downloading a free signage app

See the full TRANSCRIPT

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

What Does Digital Signage Cost?

EPISODE 89 | Guest: Trey Hicks, chief sales officer, Visix

What does digital signage cost? It seems like a simple question, but it’s not. Digital signage isn’t like buying a cell phone at a kiosk. It’s more like kitting out a smart home with phones for your whole family along with smart speakers and TVs, a cell and internet service package, as well as all the entertainment feeds you’ll want access to.

Digital signage isn’t a product. It’s a suite of products that includes digital signage software, hardware, services, subscriptions and more. We discuss six basic factors that can affect the cost of digital signage, so you can better plan your budget and shop with confidence.

Understand perpetual licenses versus software subscriptions
Hear the benefits of cloud and on-premise servers
Consider whether to buy media players or use your own PCs
Discover how endpoints, users and data options can affect pricing
Explore services you may not have factored into your budget

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Grab our handy infographic with 10 Questions to Ask When Shopping for Digital Signage

Using Digital Signage in K12 Schools

EPISODE 88 | Guest: Ilyse Johnson, region sales manager – Mid-South for Visix

Schools have a unique challenge of communicating across three very different audiences – students, teachers and staff, and parents and visitors. Finding easy ways to engage and inform all of these folks can be tricky, but digital signs in K12 schools can unify and streamline both messaging and workflows.

Ilyse Johnson walks us through different methods to attract and motivate everyone in a school or school district, what schools have found to work best and some of the most popular things to show on screens.

Learn how to unify school messaging while still targeting different groups
Understand how digital signs get more buy-in than printed or audio announcements
Explore popular content for school screens and how students can get involved
Hear how automated data, content feeds and approval processes ease workloads
Find out how schools are using menu boards, interactivity and wayfinding for higher engagement

See the FULL TRANSCIPT

See how one school district is using digital signage in our case study with video: Hall County School District Soars with Digital Signage

Overcommunicate at Your Own Peril

EPISODE 87 | Andrew Brown, co-founder of the Academy of Business Communications

Email, chat, WhatsApp, Zoom, Teams, town halls, meetings, intranets, digital signage – it can all feel overwhelming. As the number of messages we receive every day grows, as well as the number of technologies and channels we have to master, it’s more important than ever that organizational communications be deliberate, well planned and focused on outcomes. Companies that overcommunicate, though well intentioned, risk demotivating or alienating their employees.

Andrew Brown from the Academy of Business Communications takes us through some of the most common traps that companies fall into, and explains that overcommunicating is about much more than just volume.

Understand why people feel you’re overcommunicating (it’s not just volume)
Learn how trust and authenticity can cut the number of communications needed
Hear what executives, supervisors and employees need to do better
Discover how crucial listening is – both one-on-one and in groups
Get tips on how to make your communications more impactful

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more advice and free tools on the Academy of Business Communications website

6 Collaboration Skills & Why They’re More Important than Ever

EPISODE 86 | Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix

Collaboration has always been a buzzword in the workplace, but it’s come to the forefront lately with more people working remotely because it’s an essential tool to streamline and motivate processes and people. And it’s not a top-down initiative anymore – employees are begging for better collaboration skills, tool and technologies to help them do their jobs and balance their work/life habits.

In this episode, we talk with Ellyce Kelly about which collaboration skills can make the biggest difference to your teams, practical tips to encourage collaboration and how digital signage can help.

Learn what collaboration is and why it matters to people and profits
Understand the benefits of good collaboration and the dangers of ignoring it
Hear real-world stats about how collaboration is affecting workforce dynamics
Get practical tips to bolster good collaboration in your organization
Discover how digital signage managers can apply and support collaboration

Get the FULL TRANSCIPT

Download these tips in our handy infographic: 7 Tips for More Effective Collaboration

Digital Signs for Hospitals

EPISODE 85 | Steve Lainer, region sales manager – Northeast for Visix

Healthcare facilities need to communicate everything from entertainment for waiting rooms to critical care notices at nurses’ stations. Digital signs for hospitals have become the leading solution to engage and inform everyone on site, and to broadcast the most current information as things change quickly.

In this episode, Steve Lainer walks us through how hospitals are using digital signs for critical communications with visitors, staff and patients. He’ll also explain how screens are reducing the burden on staff while simultaneously improving the visitor and patient experience.

Learn how digital signs contribute to hospital safety, wellness and workflows
Discover how wayfinding, CAP alerts and room signs can extend the impact of digital signs
Hear how donor boards, menu boards and queuing info can better engage hospital visitors
Understand how digital signage can help alleviate healthcare staff burnout
Explore the cost and time savings of digital signs versus outdated posters and plaques

Get the full TRANSCRIPT

Learn more in our white paper: Build Community and Empower Staff with Digital Signage for Healthcare

Purpose-Driven Content

EPISODE 84 | Guest: Maliha Aqeel, independent communications consultant, founder & CEO of the Ideas Collective

Word of mouth has gone digital and in the age of the empowered consumer, it’s vital for brands to offer purpose-driven content. This means everything must tie back into the stated purpose and values of the organization apart from profit statements. But make sure you mean what you say and be prepared to show proof that you do what you promise to do.

Communications consultant Maliha Aqeel walks us through the Four As of purpose-driven content: how Authenticity, Accountability and Action create consumer Advocates that promote your brand and help you differentiate yourself from competitors.

Explore how to align the messaging of your organization with your purpose
Get practical examples of how to apply the Four As in communications
Hear how consumer experience and consumer empowerment are driving change
Understand how to use Simon Sinek’s Golden Circle for decision making
Learn the importance of social listening, research and validating using data

Get the full TRANSCRIPT

Discover more content tips in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content

W.A.T.A! An Energizing Approach to Communication Projects

EPISODE 83 | Guest: Roxy Tomacder, senior internal communications specialist

W.A.T.A! is an easy-to-remember mindset and roadmap that will help you approach all of your communication projects with more energy and more confidence. Who is the message for? Does it Align with your overall goals? Are you building Trust with your audience? And are you bringing Artistry to the project?

Roxy Tomacder, writer, speaker and senior internal communications specialist walks us through the tactics and applications of W.A.T.A! for higher employee engagement.

Understand how to go beyond demographics to better know your audience
Explore how to better align the goals of both sender and receiver
Learn how to build trust with your audience
Discover the importance of artistry in omnichannel communications
Hear real-world applications for W.A.T.A!

See the full transcript HERE

Get more tips in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning Guide

Cloud Digital Signage vs. On Premise

EPISODE 82 | Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix, Inc.

If you’re shopping for a content management system, one of the first things you’ll have to ask yourself is whether you want cloud digital signage or an on-premise solution. The answer will depend on more factors than you may have considered. How many people need access and where are they located? How much data will you be pulling in and from where? Is it a budget issue?

In this episode, we walk you through the pros and cons of cloud digital signage vs. an on-premise server to give you a head start on evaluating your options.

Understand the difference between cloud and on-premise solutions
Discover the advantages and disadvantages of each
Learn which solution is best for which types of organizations
Explore how cloud affect feature sets and desktop apps
Hear how digital signage vendors are adapting to a hosted world

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more in our Masterclass Guide: Digital Signage Systems Overview Guide

Using Color Theory & Psychology in Digital Signage Design

EPISODE 81 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix, Inc.

Digital signage is all about attention and impact, and color is one of the most powerful and flexible tools in your design arsenal. But you have to choose hues that are both appropriate and engaging for the target audience. Knowing how different groups perceive and react to different colors is an important part of crafting quality designs, and can either boost or torpedo your messages.

In this episode, we’ll talk about color theory and psychology, step through some of the most common color associations, and give you practical tips and links that can help you design better content.

Learn the difference between color theory and color psychology
Explore common color associations
Understand how cultural differences can affect color perception
Tips for making color count in digital signage designs
Get links to color palettes, generators and more articles

See the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Get more screen design advice in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design

Why Visix Software Training Is Essential to Success

EPISODE 80 | Guest: Jill Perardi, director of professional services, Visix, Inc.

Digital signage software is like any other business app – you have to learn how to use it before you can excel at it. All too often, people by a digital signage system and then just import PowerPoints. If that’s you, you’re missing out on a lot of features that can make your workload easier and your screens more appealing.

Jill Perardi walks us through the benefits of Visix software training and how it can impact your day-to-day operations and audience engagement.

Learn why neglecting training can be a waste of money
Explore how training can help boost digital signage adoption
Understand the different training options tools from Visix
Discover how knowledge sharing can boost productivity
Hear how to sign up and the best way to get started

See the full transcript HERE

Get more information about this topic on our training page here.

Where to Put Digital Signs

EPISODE 79 | Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Even the best message designs can’t engage viewers if your screens are inaccessible or inconvenient. A lot of folks start with a blank spot on the wall then design their digital signage system around that. But as in all things, you need a strategy. Start with a content plan, consider your audience’s needs and preferences, do a site survey, then map out where to put digital signs for the most impact.

In this podcast, we look at both technical and content considerations that can affect screen placement, and give you practical tips to decide the best places to put digital signs in your facility.

Explore how to map content to locations before installing digital signs
Get basic screen placement recommendations for interactive and non-interactive screens
Understand how height, glare, audio and ADA regulations can affect screen placement
Hear content recommendations for different locations, audiences and industries
Discover how to extend your messaging reach with room signs, personal devices and websites

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more in our Masterclass Guide: Digital Signage Systems Overview Guide

Why Integration Partners Matter

EPISODE 78 | Guest: Trey Hicks, chief sales officer for Visix, Inc.

You need a digital signage system. So now what? You can research software and hardware vendors online, but who takes care of installing the screens, networking and cabling, and getting all of your systems to work together seamlessly? That’s where audiovisual integration partners come in.

In this episode, we discuss the value of working with an AV integrator to help you plan, install, spin up and maintain your digital signage system and, most of all, how they can save you a lot of time and headaches.

Understand how the process works and where integration partners fit in
Learn how integrators assess projects to create scalable, repeatable solutions
Explore physical installation, training and support services
Discover how experts can integrate disparate business systems to work together
Hear how integration partners help you after the installation is complete

See the full transcript HERE

Get more information about Visix integration partners on our Partners webpage.

Building a Content Strategy (for the New Year)

EPISODE 77 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix, Inc.

Crafting a content strategy for your digital signage system can help finetune your goals, streamline your processes and save you time in the long run. More importantly, it can ensure you’re delivering messages and campaigns that will attract attention and inspire interaction.

In this episode, we walk you through nine easy steps to build a content strategy that’s focused and inclusive. Whether your plan covers one month, one quarter or a whole year, getting a gameplan together will benefit both your signage team and your audience.

Understand why you need a content strategy
Hear nine practical steps to create a formal plan
Discover why audience demographics can be misleading
Learn how to find out if you’re measuring the right things
Get tips on crowdsourcing tasks, calendars, policies and goals

See the full transcript HERE

Get more tips in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning Guide

Get Into the Content Operations Mindset

EPISODE 76 | Guest: Ray Walsh, communications consultant & author of Localizing Employee Communications

Your company wants to promote its social responsibility initiative. You’ll need text and graphics to roll out a print PDF, PowerPoint deck, messaging on your digital signage system, as well as posts on your intranet, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. And each of these platforms require different lengths of text and unique image file formats. Now imagine you need all of this in several languages.

The number of communication channels continues to grow and diversify, which puts a huge burden on content creation teams. Creating every message from scratch is impractical, and even repurposing content can be a burden when source files are hard to find or hard to edit.

In this episode, we talk with internal communications expert Ray Walsh. He gives us practical advice on working within a content operations mindset – the processes, people, and technologies needed for strategically planning, creating, managing, and analyzing all content types for all channels across an enterprise.

Understand why handcrafting content is untenable in the long term
Hear how multichannel planning can save a lot of work
Explore tagging and tools that can make your job easier
Discover why collaboration is key to operationalizing content
Get links to expert sources for content operations advice

See the full transcript HERE

Get more communications advice from Ray’s website and blog. Check out Ray’s book Localizing Employee Communications at Amazon or direct from XML Press.

Localizing Employee Communications: A Handbook

The Best Event Signs Are Digital

EPISODE 75 | Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix

The number one thing shown on digital signs outside of retail settings is events. But showing events doesn’t just mean listing event and meeting schedules. You can use your digital signs to show countdowns and promotions before an event, stream video and tweets during an event, and follow up with your audience afterwards and share those results on screens.

In this episode, Ellyce Kelly walks us through some content ideas you may not have thought of for your events, best practices for event signs and real-world scenarios that work.

Get content ideas for before, during and after events
Learn about countdowns and calls to action
Explore how social media, video and photos can boost participation
Discover how touchscreens and room signs fit into the events mix
Understand how scheduling software can feed your screens

See the full transcript HERE

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

How Digital Signage Fits into Unified Communications

EPISODE 74 | Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix, Inc.

Technology is approaching a more seamless experience for both users and communicators. The term unified communications (UC) can mean different things to different people, depending on whether they approach it from a technology or engagement perspective. Digital signage is a bridge between those two viewpoints.

New technologies and messaging techniques are emerging that will transform the way people interact with information and one another. By looking at what we use and how we got to where we are today, we can get a glimpse of the shape of things to come.

Understand what unified communications means in different contexts
Learn how unified communications differs from multichannel and omnichannel approaches
Explore how past technologies point the way towards the future
Discover how digital signage is a key element in emerging UC ecosystems
Hear how companies like Visix stay relevant to their clients in a constantly shifting market

See the transcript HERE

Learn more in our Masterclass Guide: Digital Signage Systems Overview Guide

Combatting Workplace Rumors with Good Communications

EPISODE 73 | Andrew Brown, co-founder of the Academy of Business Communications

Water cooler talk has moved online, so the number, spread and speed of workplace rumors is growing every day. Ignoring rumors or putting out bad messaging to combat them can do more damage than the original rumor itself. Organizations have to understand the reasons why employees might create or spread rumors, how their communications and culture might be contributing to the rumor mill, and how to take a proactive approach to combat them.

Andrew Brown walks us through the conditions that create fertile ground for rumors, the very human and social reasons behind them, and some real-world stories and advice for how organizations should and should not try to manage rumors in the workplace.

Understand three levels where rumors take hold
Learn about the three conditions that allow rumors to rise and spread
Hear four common but ineffective approaches that organizations often take
Discover the traps that organizations often fall into when addressing rumors
Get three tips for things an organization can do to combat rumors
Explore how the hybrid office, technology and different generations play into it

See the full transcript HERE

Get more advice and free tools on the Academy of Business Communications website

EX, CX, VX & Why Experience Matters

EPISODE 72 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager, Visix, Inc.

The experience is everything. Whether it be the visitor experience, customer experience or employee experience, focusing on people, their needs and how they interact with your company and culture can make or break your brand.

In this episode, we’ll give you an overview and history of each of the EX, CX and VX disciplines, and talk about how a good experience can lead to higher productivity, improve employee retention, raise revenues and create brand advocates. We also distinguish between employee experience and employee engagement, and give you some tips for how to wrap all of this into your digital signage strategy.

Understand the difference between EX, CX and VX
Hear the history of how each of these mindsets developed
Learn about the evolution from employee engagement to employee experience
Discover why experience is so important for a brand’s success
Get tips for how to wrap experience into your communications and content strategies

See the full transcript HERE

Get more tips in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning Guide

Design Tips for Interactive Screens

EPISODE 71 | Melissa Sartin, creative content artist for Visix

Interactivity is now the norm for screens in our daily lives. Making your digital signage interactive, either using touchscreen or voice interaction, can greatly improve the user experience, but not if what’s on screen is hard to read or hard to navigate.

In this episode, content artist Melissa Sartin walks us through design tips for interactive screens, what you can do using our AxisTV Signage Suite software and the common mistakes to avoid.

Learn the benefits of offering interactivity
Discover AxisTV Signage Suite’s interactive options and widgets
Get tips for designing good interactive screen layouts
Explore design themes, navigation systems, ADA controls, imagery and timeouts
Understand the importance of testing & success measures

See the full transcript HERE

Get more screen design advice in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design

Digital Signs for Business

EPISODE 70 | Jason Cain, region sales manager – South Central for Visix

Businesses of all types and sizes are using digital signage to inform and motivate employees, as well as communicate and connect with visitors and the public. But how successful your signage is always depends on what you’re showing on screens and how often you’re refreshing that content.

In this episode, Jason Cain walks us through how companies are using digital signs for business to engage both their internal and external audiences, the most popular content for each, and some of his best and worst real-world examples.

Learn how businesses handle internal vs. public-facing communications
Hear the pros and cons of enterprise, cloud and on-premise solutions
Understand the benefits of automated events, alerts, KPIs and dashboards on screens
Discover how room signs, interactivity and remote publishing can extend the impact of digital signs
Explore cool real-world digital signage applications and get tips on what not to do

See the full transcript HERE

Get content ideas for campus signage in our white paper: Increasing Employee Engagement with Digital Signs

Employee Surveys - Dos & Don'ts

EPISODE 69 | Guests: Elizabeth Williams & Andrew Brown, founders of the Academy of Business Communications

Employee surveys are a longstanding tool in the management and communications arsenal. By getting direct feedback from your workforce, you can find out what’s working, what’s misunderstood or unclear, and what improvements your employees feel you need to make. But asking vague questions, crowding surveys with lots of junk and not updating your surveys to reflect current realities can do more harm than good. Also, if your surveys are too infrequent or employees don’t see any action afterwards, you can weaken the employee engagement you were trying to boost.

In this episode, employee communications experts Elizabeth Williams and Andrew Brown walk through the potential and pitfalls of employee surveys, what can happen when they’re done well and the dangers of doing them badly.

Find out when employee surveys are a good idea, and when they’re not
Learn how to focus surveys and avoid "might-as-well-itis"
Find out how often to survey employees (it's more often than you think)
Understand the importance of focus groups and middle managers
Discover how to set and meet employee expectations around surveys

Get the full transcript HERE

Get more advice and free tools on the Academy of Business Communications website

7 Ways to Keep Remote Workers Engaged

EPISODE 68 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president & CEO, Visix, Inc.

What’s the difference between remote workers and in-office workers? Not much, it turns out. Every employee wants to feel motivated, connected and engaged, and every employee requires good communication from all levels of their organization. Remote workers need the same guidance and encouragement as in-office staff, and they can be just as productive (or more so) than the employee sitting in a cubicle if you evolve your mindset and your communication channels to deliver what they need.

In this episode, Sean Matthews talks about the realities of a growing hybrid workforce, specific challenges that Visix has faced and how we addressed them, along with some concrete advice for anyone struggling to engage their remote workers.

Learn about the myths and mindsets that pose a barrier to remote engagement
Hear how Visix adapted to an expanded remote workforce
Understand the benefits of remote work for both employees and the bottom line
Get seven practical tips on how to keep your remote workers engaged
Explore technologies and techniques for hybrid office communications

Get the full transcript HERE

Get more advice in our free Guide to Engaging Remote Employees

Campus Signage - Why Digital Is Better

EPISODE 67 | Guest: Dave Leo, region sales manager (North Central) for Visix, Inc.

Universities and colleges of all types and sizes are adopting digital campus signage. And they all have the same needs and the same mission, which is educate, inform and alert their students, staff and visitors. But it’s not enough to just put some screens up in hallways. You have to understand what types of messaging appeal to different viewers, and where and when to publish that content. You have to give your signage managers the tools they need to succeed and always think about the viewer experience.

In this episode, Dave Leo walks us through how higher education clients are using campus signage to engage their audiences, some of the dos and don’ts for a successful system, and some real-world examples of campus content.

Learn about popular types of screen content for different audiences
Understand the unique challenges for higher ed content managers
Explore menu boards, donor boards, wayfinding and other interactive options
Discover how digital signage ties into mass alerts
Get advice and best practices for campus signage systems

Get the full transcript HERE

Get content ideas for campus signage in our white paper: Student-Centered Digital Signage for Colleges & Universities

Best Digital Signage Widgets for Different Users

EPISODE 66 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant for Visix, Inc.

Choosing the best digital signage widgets starts with good user management. Different software users need access to the tools they feel most comfortable with, but they don’t necessarily need to see everything. Deciding what they should and shouldn’t interact with all stems from having a solid plan for your user hierarchy, content and workflows. This podcast can help get you started.

In this episode, we go through the main user types who create, schedule and manage content, and which widgets are best for them.

Learn why and how to organize user profiles
Explore three user personas – content submitter, content manager and content designer
Hear about different widgets and how they’re used in screen layouts
Discover interactive and HTML5 features
Understand how to set up software users for success

Get the full transcript HERE

Find out more about widgets on our webpage at: Easy Digital Signage Widgets

12 Tips for Better Employee Communications

EPISODE 65 | Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

**

IT’S OUR TWO-YEAR ANNIVERSARY!!! Thanks to everyone who tunes in to DSDR. We hope you’ve found our episodes fun and valuable. If you have any suggestions for topics, email us at comms@visix.com. And don't forget that you can subscribe to this podcast and also our YouTube channel.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

**

Better employee communications take work. It’s not enough to create a PowerPoint slide or fill in a template with some text. You have to have a strategy behind your messages, or your employees will just tune out. That goes for every channel – email, digital signs, social networks, collaboration apps, etc. And the need for purposeful, well-thought-out messaging is never more important than for internal communications.

Today’s employees need transparency into your mission and the outcomes of their actions. They want a voice in your operations and how, when, where and what you communicate. If you want to drive and deliver better employee communications, we’re giving you 12 tips that you can put into action today:

Hear how better employee communications affect engagement and experience
Learn about best practices for design, content and frequency
Understand context, clarity and brevity all work together
Explore how to measure understanding and effectiveness
Discover how surveys can do some of the work for you

Get the full transcript HERE

Use our infographic to take these tips with you.

A Modern Guide to Manufacturing Signage

EPISODE 64 | Guest: Chip Kepner, region sales manager - West Great Lakes for Visix, Inc.

Just as factories, warehouses and assembly lines have embraced technology to help them do their work, manufacturing signage has evolved to modernize communications with a fast-moving, far-flung workforce.

When workers can’t get to a computer to check email, or there’s no good internet in the area of the plant, how do you keep them engaged, informed and safe? In this episode, Chip Kepner walks us through how modern facilities are using digital signs to unify communications across their facilities – both in the office and on the floor.

Get lots of content ideas for manufacturing signage
Learn how signage affects employee engagement and productivity
Hear best practices for HR and safety messaging, KPIs and more
Discover how to unite messaging across jobs, teams and locations
Understand what not to do on screens
Explore some best and worse real-world examples

Get the full transcript HERE

Get more content ideas in our white paper: Drive Change and Improve Safety with Digital Signage for Manufacturing

Experiential Design for Digital Signage

EPISODE 63 | Host: Derek DeWitt, Communications Specialist for Visix, Inc.

Immersive experiences are being pioneered in a number of fields using experiential design concepts. Though digital signage is mainly a visual medium, there are ways to engage the other four senses as well. Yes – hearing, touch, smell and even taste.

The more ways you can get someone’s attention, the better chance you have of attracting them and giving them an experience that they’ll remember for a long time. And that means they’ll remember your message and your brand longer. This is more than thinking outside the box, it’s thinking outside the eye.

Learn how much each sense influences how we process information
Understand the importance of high-quality visuals and motion
Explore ways to use audio and music effectively
Consider using scent diffusers to add a smell element
Don’t forget about haptics to engage the tactile sense
Surprise people by offering a way to engage their taste buds
Hear examples of how experiential design elements can work independently or together

See the full transcript HERE

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

Designing Good Digital Signage Templates

EPISODE 62 | Guest: Melissa Sartin, creative content artist for Visix, Inc.

Using templates for digital signage messages and layouts helps you save time, streamline workflows for content creators, and keep control over what people put up on your screens. No matter who’s making and scheduling messages to your system, you can rest easy knowing that everything fits within your brand and design standards.

In this episode, we talk with the designer who created over 900 templates for Visix about why using templates is a wise choice for many organizations. We look at best practices for specific template elements like background, images (and where to source them), font types and styles, and the various options available in AxisTV Signage Suite for template creators.

Find out how templates can improve your signage
Learn what backgrounds to use, and when
Understand how to use images and where you can get them
Explore font options and the psychology behind them
Hear some real-world examples and use cases for different template elements
Discover the difference between message templates and layout templates

See the full transcript HERE

Get more design tips with our Masterclass Digital Signage Design Guide

Feeding the Face-to-Face Channel

EPISODE 61 | Guest: Ray Walsh, communications consultant & author of the book Localizing Employee Communications

You work hard to manage digital signage, emails, intranets and other communication channels, but you might be neglecting the most important one of all: the face-to-face channel.

In this episode, we talk with internal communications expert Ray Walsh. He gives us practical advice on how to prepare managers and team leaders to share your campaigns so that they generate buzz and word of mouth. We walk through a real-world example and how to lay the groundwork for your internal communications to make your messaging much more effective.

Understand why digital channels aren’t enough
Hear why managers and team leaders are critical to success
Explore why context is essential for engagement
Discover how to make your communications sharable
Find out how to be an active recipient

See the full transcript HERE

Get more communications advice from Ray's website and blog. Check out Ray’s book Localizing Employee Communications at Amazon or direct from XML Press.

Localizing Employee Communications: A Handbook

Internal Communication Trends for 2021

EPISODE 60 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing & communications manager for Visix, Inc.

A new study by Gallagher on internal communication trends gives insights into the changing landscape of reaching employees and keeping them engaged. We take a look at a few of the findings – the good and the bad – and discuss possible reasons for why respondents said what they said. Along the way, we examine what organizations can do in the near future to improve their messaging, and how IC is changing in the coming years.

Examine new priorities for internal communication (IC) and employee experience (EX)
Hear how IC, HR and the C-suite are using new tools, tech and training
Understand the growth of digital, interactive, multisensory and omnichannel comms
Consider how new technologies, channels and content will impact IC strategies
Learn how to expand measurement beyond reach to evaluate outcomes

See the full transcript HERE

For more IC stats from the study, see our infographic: 30 New IC Statistics

You can also read the entire Gallagher study here: State of the Sector 2021: The definitive global survey of the internal communication and employee engagement landscape.

Employee Engagement Trends in 2021

EPISODE 59 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing & communications manager for Visix, Inc.

Employee engagement has been greatly affected by the upheavals of 2020. Internal Communications, Human Resources, the C-suite, managers and workers are all adjusting to the new work-from-home culture, the technology that makes it possible and the challenges of communicating remotely.

In this episode, we discuss employee engagement trends highlighted in a new Gallup report. We cover where organizations are doing better than before, and where there’s still work to be done, and take a look at some of the reasons why the numbers are what they are.

Hear the latest stats for engaged and unengaged employees
Discover how HR and IC are adapting to the new normal
Understand the risks of disengagement and burnout
Learn why meaningful feedback and wellbeing are top priorities
Explore how the C-suite and managers fit into engagement

See the full transcript HERE

Want more tips on communications for employee engagement? Download our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

Hardware Considerations for Digital Signage

EPISODE 58 | Guest: Joe Murray, systems engineer & architect, Visix, Inc.

Communications today are increasingly virtual, but still require physical hardware to work. Although we often remind people that digital signage is about the content, you can’t reach your audience without the infrastructure. And maintaining your digital signage hardware and software is essential to a reliable, scalable and user-friendly system.

Joe Murray talks about what digital signage hardware you need for a digital signage solution, and how to shop smart so you don’t end up with items you need to replace in the near future. He also walks us through why and how you can update your software and hardware to keep your system running smoothly and take advantage of new features.

Walk through the basic hardware in a digital signage system
Understand what a content management server is and what it does
Explore on-premise versus cloud hosting for servers
Learn how to choose the best media player for your communications
Hear why updating both hardware and software is essential
Discover the advantages of remote and scheduled updates

See the full transcript HERE

Want the nitty-gritty technical stuff? Download our AxisTV Signage Suite networking guide.

Work From Home: Tech, Trends & Benefits

EPISODE 57 | Guest: Jonathan Blackwood, editorial director of Commercial Integrator and editor-in-chief of My TechDecisions

How we work is changing, partly because of circumstance and partly due to technology. The pandemic has forced us to conduct the largest workplace experiment in history, but work from home was already a strong movement in the labor market, and has shown positive results for both organizations and their employees. Now that we’ve been forced to adapt, things will never be the same again.

Jonathan Blackwood shares some insights into what will change, what won’t, and even more importantly, why. He also talks about how productivity, health and safety and education are all being affected.

Remote working and learning technology are certainly at the forefront of these changes, but it’s also affecting everything from how managers approach goal setting to talent attraction and retention, to scheduling and collaboration, to space configuration and management.

Learn about business agility and why it’s key for today’s workplace
Discover how work-life balance benefits both employer and employees
Hear how flexibility and hybrid schedules are increasing productivity
Explore how to leverage in-office and out-of-office technologies
Consider how digital signage fits into the new, emerging workplace
Understand why surveys are essential to successfully adopt WFH practices

See the full transcript HERE

Keep up to date with the industry, technologies and more at My TechDecisions and Commercial Integrator.

The Client Onboarding Process & Why It Matters

EPISODE 56 | Guest: Jill Perardi, director of professional services, Visix, Inc.

Software companies are using the HR term “onboarding” to describe the process of familiarizing clients with their products and services, and helping them become proficient enough to achieve their goals. Digital signage is a unique medium, so establishing a partnership between client and vendor is vital to a successful deployment.

Jill Perardi takes us through the client onboarding process at Visix. This gives clients an idea of what they should expect when buying AxisTV Signage Suite software. It also provides a roadmap that clients can use with other software vendors to ensure they get the most from their investment.

Learn what onboarding is & why it’s important
Walk through the steps of the Visix onboarding process
Understand who needs to be involved at each stage
Discover how success measures shape each step of the process
Know what to expect and what to ask any company you deal with

See the full transcript HERE

For more help planning your digital signage success, download our Digital Signage Best Practices Guide.

How (Not) to Communicate Effectively

EPISODE 55 | Guest: Dave Haynes, founding editor for Sixteen:Nine, host of the 16:9 Podcast & digital signage consultant

Dave Haynes began in newspapers but started focusing primarily on digital signage and marketing 15 years ago. His refreshing take on how to keep communications honest has made Sixteen:Nine one of the go-to sources in the industry. In this episode, he shares some tips on how to communicate effectively with an audience and how not to screw up your press releases.

Clear, concise communication is essential in all mediums, so you can apply this advice not only to your press releases, but also your digital signage content, social media and other messaging. Get suggestions on how to communicate both efficiently and effectively:

Learn what not to do if you want your story published
Discover the benefits of hyper-targeting
Understand the Five Ws & how they can transform your text
Consider how buzzwords & quotes can hurt you
Get advice on how to submit images & video
Hear about queue management & other trends

See the full transcript HERE

For more insights see Sixteen:Nine: All Digital Signage, Some Snark and the 16:9 Podcast

How Digital Signage Technologies Are Adapting to COVID-19

EPISODE 54 | Guest: Bradley Cooper, Editor for Digital Signage Today

2020 presented a number of challenges, but also a lot of opportunities. Organizations of all types are finding new and improved ways of getting their message out to audiences. New digital signage technologies are being adopted and adapted to meet post-COVID needs, and will point the way forward far into the future. Agility, versatility and integration are key to navigating the new communications landscape.

In this episode, we talk to Bradley Cooper of DigitalSignageToday.com about how companies and retailers have already adapted, and what we might expect in the coming year.

Learn about new touchless solutions for interactive screens & kiosks
Gain insight into how communications are becoming more targeted & personalized
Discover how digital signage is using AI, IoT &facial identification
Understand the emerging omnichannel communications method
Explore how organizations are using digital signs for safety & to control traffic flow
Hear real-world examples of dos & don’ts

See the full transcript HERE

Get updates on news, events, trends and people in the digital signage and digital out-of-home industries at Digital Signage Today.

It's Time for a Digital Signage Content Refresh

EPISODE 53 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communication manager for Visix, Inc.

With the start of a new year, this is the perfect time to give your screens a makeover: try a new layout, pep up your message designs and get your user accounts in order. Even a limited content refresh can increase engagement.

Remember that the goal is to cut through the noise, grab people’s attention and get them to take your call to action. Since your digital signs are competing with a lot of sensory input, changing things up from time to time is an easy way to entice more viewers. However, any successful content refresh strategy has be done in a methodical, measurable way, so you can tell what is and isn’t effective.

In this episode we’ll give you some quick tips on what to refresh, how often and how easy it can be:

Hear about the cocktail party affect and how the brain filters information
Explore how to update layouts – new designs, arrangements and themes
Learn to reimagine and refresh evergreen message elements
Discover quick update ideas for time, date, weather and other feeds
Get tips on refreshing playlists and calls to action
Understand the importance of software, hardware and user updates

See the full transcript HERE

Need some content inspiration? Grab our infographic with 100 Digital Signage Message Ideas.

AV & Digital Signage Trends for 2021

EPISODE 52 | Guest: Brian Galante, president & owner of Dimension PR

At the end of 2020, we’re looking at future AV and digital signage trends in the new work-from-home and hybrid culture. As large corporations work to integrate with the home office, AV and IT technologies are adapting at an unprecedented rate.

In this episode, Brian Galante of Dimension PR gives us his predictions based on his work with top vendors in the broadcast and professional AV industries. We also explore how PR fits into a comprehensive marketing and digital signage strategy:

Understand public safety messaging for 2021 & beyond
Learn about the convergence of DS & security solutions
Hear how AV & IT are bridging in-office & at-home meetings
Explore infrastructure & equipment for effective collaboration
Get tips on how to work PR into your onscreen messaging

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about Brian Galante and Dimension PR at www.dimensionpronline.com

A/B Testing for Digital Signage Content

EPISODE 51 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Measuring success is critical for modern communicators, and experimenting with A/B testing gives you data that you can analyze for actionable results to improve your workflows and audience response.

Implementing a well-executed and consistent A/B testing strategy can help you improve your digital signage messages, layouts, designs, imagery, headlines, and more. But there are a few things to consider before just jumping in. You want to make sure you’re testing the right things in the right way. And always keep the focus on the main goal of any communications, which is engagement.

Learn about the different digital signage elements you can test
Understand the basic methodology for successful A/B testing
Get tips on how to focus the scope of your split tests
Explore the ROI benefits of continuous improvement
Hear how to parse the data you gather

See the full transcript HERE

Get more tips in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning Guide

ADA Guidelines for Digital Signage

EPISODE 50 | Host: Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix, Inc.

Professional communication is about inclusion. The number and type of disabilities are more prevalent and varied than you might think, and include everything from physical to visual to hearing impairments and more. And with an aging population, it’s more important than ever before to ensure everyone can access and engage with your communications.

The Americans with Disabilities Act lays out steps for how you can ensure your facility, and your visual communications, are accessible to everyone. In this episode, we focus on tips for ADA guidelines for digital signage, specifically:

Learn about how and where to mount screens
Explore guidelines for keypads, kiosks and touchscreens
Consider voice-responsive technology and EZ Access devices
Discover how contrast, color, fonts and icons can help color blind viewers
Get lots of links to helpful online resources

Get the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design

How to Make Internal Communications More Authentic

EPISODE 49 | Guest: Ray Walsh, independent internal localization consultant & author of Localizing Employee Communications

How do you engage people but still maintain consistency in branding and messaging? How can you express your corporate culture while being authentic, comprehensible and engaging at the same time?

As in all good communications, the key is to focus on the audience – who they are, what they’re interested in and what their context is. But that’s just the first step, after you get to know your audience, you still have to craft messaging that will appeal to them.

In this episode, localization and communications expert Ray Walsh gives advice on how we can get across what we need to and yet still sound human.

Learn how to avoid jargon (write to your mother)
Get tips to simplify and focus your message
Explore how being authentic leads to more engagement
Embrace revisions, review and more revisions
Hear how localization can help frame corporate messaging

See the full transcript HERE

Check out Ray’s book Localizing Employee Communications at Amazon or direct from XML Press

Localizing Employee Communications: A Handbook

Using Digital Signage for Activism & Inclusion

EPISODE 48 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Engaging your audience with digital signage means including them in the conversation. There’s a lot going on in the world that’s more than just the day-to-day grind of work or classes, and part of your communications strategy should take that into account.

In this episode, we cover five aspects of incorporating activism and inclusion into your messaging: culture, education, trust, respect and events. Learn how you can use your digital signs to include people in your organization at multiple levels, educate your audience on what’s important to you, and reinforce what’s important to them.

Understand why you need to focus on people first
Learn to define and reinforce your organizational culture on screens
Explore how to encourage inclusion and respect in your facilities
Consider causes and how to advertise them correctly
Discover how to build trust and transparency by being accurate and timely
Get tips on how to support events with more than just schedules

See the full transcript HERE

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

Automated Digital Signage – Set It and Forget It

EPISODE 47 | Guest: Jill Perardi, director of professional services, Visix, Inc.

Digital signage doesn’t have to be a lot of work. Any good content management software will let you pull in feeds and data from other sources like calendar apps, websites, news sources and more. Even tools like Microsoft Excel can be used to manage information off screen, and that data will update all on its own once it’s embedded in your message or layout.

With automated digital signage content, you can set it up once and just let it run. You’ll not only guarantee that you’ll always have fresh, relevant content for your audience, you’ll free up your time to concentrate on more specific, time-sensitive campaigns.

In this episode, we’ll continue our tips on auto-updating content, and expand on some new sources and ideas that can save digital signage managers time while attracting and engaging more viewers.

Learn how automation benefits both digital signage managers and viewers
Understand how attractors can increase engagement with all of your content
Explore data-fed solutions like event boards, menu boards and directories
Get tips on how to set up social media, countdowns and countups
Consider content subscriptions, news-in-pictures and signage kits

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content

Digital Signage for Health and Safety

EPISODE 46 | Guest: Trey Hicks, chief sales officer, Visix, Inc.

Safety is important in all work environments, but it’s paramount in manufacturing and industrial settings. Accidents can cause serious injury, damage equipment and cost the organization a lot of money.

Digital signage can help safety managers train new employees and remind workers about current procedures and protocols, as well as engage and motivate people across the organization. And it’s not just health and safety – digital signs can increase engagement with motivational messages, calls to action and realtime metrics on screens.

Safety is never one and done – it requires constant and consistent education and motivation. Digital signs can help you keep all your employees safe and informed, comply with OSHA and ADA requirements, and have a more productive workforce.

Understand how digital signage can unite communications across shifts and specialties
Learn the benefits of digital safety communications over OSHA posters
Explore ways to promote training and increase engagement
Discover how realtime data can increase productivity
Get real-world examples of how Visix manufacturing clients are using digital signs
Consider safety message subscriptions to take the burden off content creators
Hear how safety messaging can help during the COVID-19 pandemic

See the full transcript HERE

Additional Resources:

Download our infographic: Using Digital Signage for Better Safety Communication
Download our white paper: Drive Change and Improve Safety with Digital Signage for Manufacturing Facilities

Calls to Action - Examples & Advice for Digital Signage

EPISODE 45 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, professional services consultant, Visix, Inc.

A call to action is a short, clear instruction that motivates your audience to do something, like “register now” or “learn more”. And in visual communications and digital signage, the call to action is the most important part of every message you publish. It not only prompts action; it gets people actively engaged and provides you with a way to measure whether or not your messaging is effective.

It might sound basic, but, as in all communications, there are some dos and don’ts. We’ll walk you through some best practices for how to create compelling calls to action, with 12 tips that have been proven to work on digital signs.

Get easy call to action examples you can use today
Learn how to leverage QR codes for higher response rates
Understand how to craft concise, motivating messages
Consider language register, verbs, triggers and symbols
Explore gamification, cross-promotion and ROI measures

See the full transcript HERE

Get more advice in our infographic 12 Best Practices for Calls to Action on Digital Signs

Localization & Why It Matters

EPISODE 44 | Guest: Ray Walsh, independent localization expert, author of Localizing Employee Communications

We talk a lot about audience engagement with digital signage, and one way to ensure people pay attention and care about what you’re showing is to make it relevant to their environment. Localization means adapting communications to the specific location and audience you’re trying to reach, and is a vital element to any good communications plan.

Localization expert Ray Walsh talks about where this movement comes from, gives examples of companies that do a good job, and not such a good job, and gives tips for adapting both internal and public-facing messaging for the best possible customer experience.

Learn what localization is
Understand the differences between global branding and local messaging
Consider how to adapt global brand standards
Explore how to use photos correctly and effectively
Examine communication within the content chain
Get tips to avoid common pitfalls when localizing content

Get the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic with Ray’s book, Localizing Employee Communications from Amazon or Barnes & Noble, or direct from XML Press.

Localizing Employee Communications: A Handbook

Digital Wayfinding 101

EPISODE 43 | Guest: Jill Perardi, creative services manager for Visix

Wayfinding at its most basic level is simple – help people get from point A to point B. But there’s a lot more to effective wayshowing than just putting up a map, especially once you decide to go digital. Digital wayfinding needs to be well planned and well designed with the user experience always the priority.

The tradeoff for that extra work is that you also have more possibilities and options to engage your audience. In this episode, we’ll explore digital wayfinding options and best practices for static screens, interactive touchscreens and smartphones, and cover the basics of what you need to get started.

Start with a goal, a team and a plan
Maps: where to get them and what goes on them
Use color coding and landmarks
No touchscreen? No problem. Put wayfinding on static displays
Design for the user, environment and screen size
Weigh time and budget against the visitor experience
Consider ADA guidelines and mobile options
Use a voice user interface for hands-free interactivity on any screen

See the full transcript HERE

Download our white paper: 10 Steps to Successful Interactive Wayfinding

Why You Need Room Signs Instead of Tablets

EPISODE 42 | Guests: Sean Matthews, president & CEO of Visix and Joe Murray, system engineer and architect for Visix

For space management, nothing is as effective as digital room signs. They’re more efficient, more flexible and even more cost effective over time. And while it might be tempting to just use consumer-grade tablets, room signs are purpose-built for enterprise applications.

Sean and Joe talk about the different room sign solutions that Visix offers, which works best in what environment and what features are best for different user scenarios. They also cover the shortcomings of trying to use tablets to display event schedules 24/7.

And yes, this podcast episode is about specific Visix products. It’s our podcast, after all. And even if you’re shopping for room signs from several vendors, this podcast will give you some helpful tips.

Learn why room signs are the essential modern space management solution
Meet the most customizable room sign in the world – the Touch10
Consider Connect room signs for turnkey room and resource management
Manage collaboration and hoteling spaces with wireless electronic paper (EPS) E Ink room signs
Understand what type of room signs work best in different environments
Hear the disadvantages of using consumer tablets instead of purpose-built room signs

See the full transcript HERE

Download our white paper for Meeting & Space Management Tips

Reopening After COVID-19 - Digital Signs for Safety

EPISODE 41 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix, Inc.

As facilities reopen after restrictions are relaxed, it’s vital to communicate any and all new policies to people entering your building or campus. Digital signage can help you reopen safely after COVID-19 by showing restrictions and reminders to returning employees, students and visitors, and can be updated immediately as the situation changes.

Effective messaging on screens can help reduce the risk of infection, ease tensions, create community and help people understand not just the “what” but the “why” of new guidelines. By reinforcing safety and safeguards on digital signs, you can support and encourage people as they return to their lives and their livelihoods.

In this episode you’ll:

Hear practical examples for reopening messages
Take a tour through a facility to find out what to put where
Explore messaging for guidelines, reminders and traffic control
Understand the need for fun, inspiration and community building
Learn how to minimize germ transmission on touchscreens
Get free tools to help you reopen safely

See the full transcript HERE

More information on this topic:

Get the infographic: 12 Ways Digital Signage Can Help You Reopen Your Facility
Read the blog: How Digital Signage Can Help You Reopen Safely
Download free digital signage messages

10 Quick Digital Signage Tips for CMS Managers

EPISODE 40 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, client relationship manager, Visix, Inc.

Everyone loves a top 10 list, so here are 10 quick digital signage tips for any CMS manager. Whether you’re in the planning stages, or have had your digital signage system up for a while, this expert advice is sure to help you invigorate and even revitalize your communications, no matter who your audience is.

Clean out your playlists
Design a new layout
Refresh recurring messages
Automate as much as possible
Pull in social media
Use animated backgrounds
Change-up your calls to action
Walk around
Survey your audience
Try gamification

See the full transcript HERE

Get more advice in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

Voice-Activated Signage Explained

EPISODE 39 | Guest: Trey Hicks, chief sales officer, Visix, Inc.

Interactivity is becoming ubiquitous in digital signage, and today there’s a new way to interact with the screen: voice interface. Yes, just talk to the screen, ask for what you want to see, and it shows you that content.

This hands-free method is perfect for today’s audiences because it mimics smart speakers and other digital assistants we already use at home. And at a time when things like germ transmission are on everyone’s minds, it offers a hygienic way to get what you need without undue risk.

Learn about increasing engagement and lowering health risks with voice-activated signage
Understand the difference between natural language processing and speech recognition
Hear the easy 1-2-3 of setting up voice interaction for any screen
Think about adding voice to meeting room signs
Make video walls even more impressive with voice
Explore what the future of interactivity may hold

See the full transcript HERE.

See voice-activated digital signage in action: https://youtu.be/wGpkRwr5AqU

Video Walls - The Ins & Outs

EPISODE 38 | Guest: Joe Murray, systems engineer and architect, Visix, Inc.

Video walls are big, bold and beautiful, and they always capture attention. But it’s more than just tossing a few screens on a wall and running a video. There are a bunch of factors to consider when planning and implementing a video wall installation – the screens, the players and the content all have to work together to create the “wow factor” you’re looking for. And planning and testing things out in advance is critical to ensure everything looks as good as possible before you go live to your audience.

But can you have a cool video wall without breaking the bank? We’ll explore costs, equipment, content and real-world examples of successes and fails in this podcast.

Learn about display and player options
Find out how bezels can make or break a video wall
Explore content ideas and design tips for video walls
Understand some common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Hear about some great installs, and a couple of not-so-great ones

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview and our blogs about video walls.

Interactive Wayfinding & Directories - Plan for Success

EPISODE 37 | Guest: Jill Perardi - creative services manager, Visix, Inc.

One way to improve the visitor experience is by offering interactive wayfinding and directories. But what exactly does that involve? How do you design and manage the project? And who will maintain it?

The key to a successful wayfinding project is to plan out your steps in advance, and adjust as needed before ever going live in front of the audience. The more you do on the front end, the fewer headaches on the back end.

In this episode, we walk through the entire process from concept to completion, with questions and considerations for every step.

Understand how to assess your need and set your goals
Learn who needs to be involved during the various stages
Know what assets to gather and how to manage them over time
Save time and effort by anticipating questions in advance
Design for your audience, not yourself
Put yourself in visitors’ shoes – test and test again

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our blog How to Do Digital Wayfinding Right, our podcast episode Ideas to Make Your Signs Interactive and our white paper in 10 Steps to Successful Interactive Wayfinding

Why Customer Experience Is the New Buzzword

EPISODE 36 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president & CEO, Visix, Inc.

Customer experience, consumer experience – it’s all about the impression you make on your audience. As people become used to always having touchscreens with them and around them, it becomes more and more important for organizations to offer information in a familiar way.

Looking at communications as an experience is the modern approach, and helps make sure that people are actively engaged in what you’re saying to them. Instead of simply replacing posters with screens, you need to maximize and personalize your digital signs and their content to match viewer expectations.

Explore how customer expectations have changed over time
Understand how interactivity effects the customer experience
Consider what content is compelling for each viewer
Learn how a voice-user interface can make any screen interactive
Think about future-proofing and greening your technologies

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our white paper Touchscreens for Audience Engagement

Questions to Ask When Shopping for Digital Signage

EPISODE 35 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, client relationship manager, Visix, Inc.

Digital signage software isn’t an off-the-shelf product. The content management system (CMS) you’ll need will depend on what you want to accomplish with it. We’ve put together a list of questions to ask when you’re shopping around to help you determine which system is right for your organization.

Knowing for what you want to do now – and what you might want to do in the future – before starting the purchasing process can save you a lot of headaches and money down the road.

Learn how your audience and goals will affect workflows
Map out who is going to use it and how
Plan for both design freedom and limitations
Consider data integration, interactivity and alerts
Think about expansion to other screens and BYOD endpoints
Don’t ignore support and services

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

Get our infographic 10 Questions to Ask When Buying Digital Signage

Networking Basics for Digital Signage

EPISODE 34 | Guest: Joe Murray, systems engineer, Visix, Inc.

Though the purpose and goals of digital signage might seem a bit abstract – things like engagement and return on involvement – at its heart, it’s a technology. That means screens, cables, wires, computers and other hardware. So, it’s important to understand networking basics.

Each deployment will be different, depending on a number of specifics to the physical infrastructure, internet access and security considerations. But there are some things that can apply to almost all deployments:

Explore the differences between cloud-hosted and on-premise systems
Understand basic networking essentials before deployment
Look at the specific network requirements for a Visix system
Learn how even secure facilities can take advantage of digital signage
Think about security issues
Don’t forget bandwidth considerations

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview and the AxisTV Signage Suite Networking Guide

Ideas to Make Your Signs Interactive

EPISODE 33 | Guest: Jill Perardi - creative services manager, Visix, Inc.

Interactivity is ubiquitous. Websites only work through interactivity. Social media is dependent on people interacting with each other’s content. Forums and reviews are crowdsourced. And, of course, our smartphones and tablets are interactive. If you’re using digital signage, your audience expects some form of interactivity, and will tune out if it isn’t on offer.

But interaction doesn’t have to mean using touchscreens. Any way you can get your audience to participate in your digital signage messaging is a form of interaction.

In this episode, we’ll look at a number of different ways your audience can become more than just passive receivers of your content, with lots of ideas to make your signs interactive.

Understand the benefits of interactive signs
Get ideas for different types of interactive content
Explore wayfinding, donor boards, timelines and more
Consider hotspots and voice activated signage
Learn how audiences can interact without using touchscreens

Read the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design Guide

8 Scalable Features of an Enterprise CMS

EPISODE 32 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO, Visix, Inc.

One of the main advantages to having enterprise-level digital signage is scalability. Not just in terms of the size of the deployment (number of displays and media players, locations or even geographical areas) but also in terms of features. This is one of the things that sets this type of digital signage head and shoulders above many of the cheap or even so-called “free” options now available.

In this podcast, we take a deep dive into eight features can scale in an enterprise-level deployment, and talk about the advantages and practical applications of each one.

Design toolkits allow custom branding versus using restrictive templates
Integration with more calendaring systems can save time and money in the long run
Room signs and other space management tools can be part of a more comprehensive strategy
Interactivity on touchscreens offers a personalized, self-service user experience
Previewing on the desktop ensures you only publish content that is accurate and well crafted
Single Sign-On, organizations and sub-organizations let you manage user accounts better and faster
Professionals services will be necessary and can be affordable

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Planning Guide

5 Key Advantages of Enterprise Software for Digital Signs

EPISODE 31 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO, Visix, Inc.

The digital signage field has become quite crowded lately, with hundreds of companies offering just about every kind of solution you can think of. Many of these might be right for a smaller deployment, but larger organizations really need to consider the features that come with an enterprise-level product.

Sean Matthews of Visix talks about five key things to keep in mind when shopping around for a digital signage CMS, and why it’s worth the time and money to invest in a product that’s right for your organization from the very beginning.

Scalability: how the system not only scales in size but also in features
Interoperability: being able to connect with databases and automated content sources
Extensibility: the ability to add subsets of features to your system
Security: on-site safety using alert notifications, but also internet security for your system
Reporting: having tools to measure a number of elements so your system is always running efficiently

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

PowerPoint Design for Digital Signs

EPISODE 30 | Guests: Melissa Sartin, creative content artist for Visix, and Dwayne Johnson, senior interactive artist for Visix

One of the most popular ways to create content for digital signage is to use PowerPoint and then simply import the slides into the CMS. Which makes sense since people already know how to use PowerPoint. But PowerPoint design for digital signs is not quite the same as creating slides for a presentation; they’re different media. And not everyone is a designer or has a design eye.

In this podcast, two of our award-winning designers give you some best practices to keep in mind with PowerPoint tips for digital signage.

Consider aspect ratios
Choose the right colors and color combinations
Focus on the background
Use images correctly, and legally
Create campaigns for longer messages
Don’t forget a call to action
Spell things correctly and use correct punctuation
Slide Master can make everything easier
Smart Art vs. clip art
Watch those transitions and animations

Get the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Designing Digital Signage Content in PowerPoint White Paper

Bonus Infographic Download: 10 Design Tips for Better PowerPoint Presentations

Human-Centered Design for Digital Signage

EPISODE 29 | Host: Derek DeWitt – communications specialist, Visix, Inc.

Human-centered design (HCD) is an approach to problem solving used in design and management frameworks. It puts people at the heart of the decision-making process, and is used by organizations such as the Society for Experiential Graphic Designs (SEGD) when creating wayfinding systems.

These ideas and methodologies can help shape your visual communications to increase engagement and participation. In this podcast, we’ll look at the four stages of HCD and how we can specifically apply them to a digital signage strategy.

Understand the basics behind human-centered design
Examine how to get inspired by, and feedback from, your audience
Learn how to use feedback to create ideas and frameworks
Explore how to turn those frameworks into experimental prototypes
Get practical examples of how to implement HCD ideas and processes

Get the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Planning Guide

Understanding Organizational Culture & Employee Types

EPISODE 28 | Host: Derek DeWitt – communications specialist, Visix, Inc.

Digital signage can be a core element in organizational communications, especially internal. To truly use it effectively, you have to understand both your organizational culture and the employee types that make up your audience.

At its heart, communication is simply people talking to people. That applies whether it’s a face-to-face conversation, webpage, newsletter or digital signage message. In order to be successful, you have to have an idea of who you are and who you are communicating with. This means defining the priorities and interests of both your company and your people.

This podcast looks at different organizational cultures and different employee types, to help you create framework for thinking about and applying HCD ideas to your digital signage (which is the topic of our next podcast).

Understand the 21st century mindset, especially when it comes to the workplace
Consider what “corporate culture” means, and its impact on employees
Explore eleven types of corporate cultures, determined by what they value and how they motivate employees
Examine two different lists of employee types to attempt to understand what they value and what engages them

Get the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Planning Guide

Image Tips for Digital Signs

EPISODE 27 | Guest: Jill Perardi - creative services manager, Visix, Inc.

Though digital signage content usually includes text, it’s a visual medium and pictures can make or break a message’s effectiveness. A picture’s worth a thousand words and all that. But there’s a lot more to consider than just throwing up a picture you found on the web. Where you get the picture, the quality and resolution, having good contrast and placement are just some of things to keep in mind.

And the term “visual” isn’t limited to photographs. You can use video, GIFs and cinemagraphs. Icons can help make things clearer to audiences of all backgrounds. Should you use PDFs or clipart? Can you ask your audience for images to use?

This podcast gives you image tips for digital signs, and looks at the ins and outs of using visuals in your messages to make them stand out and have impact.

Learn best practices for using images on digital signs
Understand legal restrictions and licensing rights
Consider when to use PDFs and clipart, and when not to
Get creative ideas for crowdsourcing, social and selfies
Explore how icon systems can help connect to any audience
Find out where to get graphics – both inside the organization and outside (lots of links!)

See the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design Guide

Four Digital Signage Shortcuts

EPISODE 26 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt – marketing communications manager, Visix, Inc.

Constantly creating fresh, exciting digital signage content can be quite a burden, especially for a small team tasked with maintaining an enterprise system. However, you don’t have to go it alone. There are a number of digital signage shortcuts to take the burden of creation off your shoulders, yet still have up-to-date content that fits with your design and brand standards.

In this podcast, we’ll look at four options – automated content, using templates, curated content and content subscriptions – that can save you time and help your digital signage be the best it can be.

Evaluate different automated content feeds and decide which are the right ones for you
Get tips for allowing others to contribute content, and using templates to standardize the look
Find content you can use on the web and from within your own organization
Consider different content subscription options to enhance your digital signage content offering

See full transcript HERE.

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content Guide

Engaging the New Workforce with Digital Signs

EPISODE 25 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

The pace of technology has created a true generation gap. What’s being called the “new workforce”, currently mainly made up of millennials, have very different priorities and expectations than previous generations. They care about quality of life both inside and outside work, and want more transparency, collaboration and community.

Our podcast walks through why it’s important to understand and engage the new workforce. We step through nine of the priorities that you can address using your digital signs to engage millennials and future generations.

Get stats that prove it’s vital for an organization to keep millennials engaged
Learn what motivates millennials stay with an organization longer
Consider nine key priorities for this generation that need to be part of your culture
Explore flexibility, collaboration, transparency, professional development, perks and more
Discover tips on how to apply modern employees’ priorities to digital signage strategies

Get the full transcript HERE.

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

Measuring the Effectiveness of Digital Signage Designs

EPISODE 24 | Guest: Jill Perardi, creative services manager for Visix

You’ve spent a lot of time and energy creating what you think are wonderful, eye-catching messages. But how do you know whether your digital signage designs are actually achieving your communication aims? Do people look at them? Do they remember them? Are they responding to your calls to action?

If you don’t have a way to measure how effective your message designs are, how can you evaluate, adjust and improve over time? The answer is you can’t.

Engagement is the goal of a digital signage system, and like any other business function, you have to gauge successes and trends to know if it’s working. This podcast will give you some guidelines for judging the effectiveness of your digital signage designs.

Find out how to ensure your designs further your communication objectives
Learn how to judge message designs on their technical and aesthetic merits
Explore different types of calls to action and A/B testing
Understand how to balance between too much and too little
Get tips on long-term planning, monitoring and measurement

Get the full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass 4: Digital Signage Design Guide

Maintaining Momentum with Digital Signage

EPISODE 23 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

You’ve launched your digital signage system and everything is going well. But how do you keep things running smoothly? And how do you keep people motivated both behind the scenes and in front of your screens? Maintaining momentum on digital signs can make the difference between short-term and long-term success.

This podcast looks at ways to make sure that your digital signs are effective and appealing in the long run. We talk about how to improve and adjust what your sharing with audiences to keep them coming back, and how to plan for new content teams and system expansions to ensure that there’s no interruption in communications and no degradation of quality.

We’ll also tackle how to inspire content managers with plenty of tips and tricks, and real-world examples to maintain momentum with your digital signage.

Learn how to keep workflows simple and fun
Explore the impact of digital signage champions
Get ideas for automated content and new content sources
Hear tips for continuous training, policies and localization
Discover how software updates can make jobs easier

Get the full transcript HERE.

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

Engaging Business Teams with Digital Signage

EPISODE 22 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

Today’s business environment is competitive, and internal communications need to support and encourage employees continuously and consistently. Engaging business teams with realtime messaging, data visualizations and recognition on digital signs is one of the most efficient ways a business can support everyone from the c-suite to HR, to sales and customer service, to production and facilities.

Different teams can use digital signage to increase the reach and effectiveness of their communications, though each one will use it a bit differently. Not only can digital signs engage employees in different departments, it can help them engage their own target audiences.

Explore how 10 different business teams can benefit from digital signage
Get real-world examples of what each team might want to see on digital signs
Discover how digital signage can create a culture of communication and community
Understand how digital signs can replace or reinforce email

-Learn how digital signage can support change, productivity, engagement and retention

See full transcript HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

Using Digital Signs to Recognize Employees

EPISODE 21 | Host: Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Multiple studies have shown that employees who feel valued are happier, work harder and change jobs less frequently. There are psychological reasons for this, but also physiological ones as well. Ignoring the need for personalized, genuine and public recognition can cost a company far more than it would to implement some simple ways to recognize employees.

Adding employee recognition to the digital signage mix is a fairly straightforward and simple thing organizations can do that yields large-scale results. But putting kudos on screens isn’t everything.

Learn why recognition is important for mind and body
Understand how recognizing employees helps the bottom line
Get practical examples for individual and team recognition
Discover how digital signage can help build a kudos community
Explore ideas to add gamification to recognition efforts

See the full TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

Adding Digital Signs to Your Alert System

EPISODE 20 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

Having comprehensive and integrated alert capabilities is important to every kind of organization – from schools and universities to corporate campuses, medical facilities to manufacturing plants, government offices and hotels – anywhere people gather in large numbers. The first step is to put together a crisis communications plan that unites all parts of your alert system.

A report by Solution estimates that the mass notification market will be worth $9.69 billion by the year 2021, as more and more organizations adopt robust alert notification plans, and municipalities, counties and even whole states are launching interoperable emergency communications systems with grants and funding options to help deploy them.

Digital signage can be a key element in a good on-site alert system. Learn how it fits into the puzzle, how the technology talks to each other and tips for making sure everything runs as smoothly as possible if there’s an emergency.

Discover how digital signs fit into a larger alert strategy
Explore how to ensure comprehensive coverage
Learn about funding options for safety systems
Get tips on the types of messages and designs to prepare
Hear 7 steps to a good crisis communications plan

Read the full TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

Tips to Measure Digital Signage ROI

EPISODE 19 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, client relationship manager for Visix

What’s the point of your communications? What are you trying to say, and what should people do or know once they see your message? Each reason for communicating will have its own goal and method of measuring success. How can you tell if your messages are successful if you don’t first define what success is? In this episode, we delve into how to measure digital signage ROI.

A message without something for the audience to do can’t be measured. You’ll have no idea if it worked or not. Maybe they saw it, maybe they liked it, maybe they didn’t. Every message needs a goal, a baseline and a call to action. To measure success, you can use URL visits, surveys, interactivity and more.

ROI needs to be a long-term, continuous process. Consistent measurement allows you to fine-tune your communications, your designs and your calls to action; and to engage more people to get the results you’re after.

Understand why ROI matters for digital signage deployments
Know how to formulate measurement goals and create a baseline
Get tips on turning Return on Investment into Return on Involvement
Find out why a good, measurable call to action is essential
Learn how to measure ROI using surveys, QR codes, smartphone snaps and more

Read the full TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

Get Inspired by Modern Marketing Trends

EPISODE 18 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

The times have changed, especially the way we all respond to marketing. How can you enhance the customer experience rather than intrude upon it? Don’t just advertise to your audience – engage with them. Take a page from modern marketing trends to make your screens more attractive and interesting to your audience.

Share content they care about. Turn everyone into an influencer. Craft your call to action so you have a way to measure interest. Respond to how people are interacting with your communications and constantly adjust. By taking a cue from super-brands, content marketing and online trends, you can build a content strategy that continuously feeds your screens, your audience’s interests and your goals.

Learn why and how to create a more consumer-like experience
Explore the differences in advertising, branding and influencer marketing
Understand the three pillars of content marketing: valuable, relevant, consistent
Gather data on your audience to better understand their interests
Take advantage of reviews, testimonials and other crowdsourced content

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content

You've spoken, we've listened: After considering feedback from listeners, Digital Signage Done Right will now premiere new episodes every other Tuesday. This gives you time to catch up on the back catalog, as well as still get fresh insights regularly.

Automated Content for Digital Signs

EPISODE 17 | Host: Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Information today changes at breakneck speed, and your audience is used to having the latest facts at their fingertips at any moment, in realtime. Your digital signs need to match those expectations to be considered reliable and credible by your viewers. Automated content can help.

Fortunately, there are a lot of options for auto-updating content that can take the burden off your signage managers. These feeds let you set them up once and then let them run – and you’ll always have the most up-to-date info on your screens.

By automating this value-add content that’s tailored to your audience's interests, your signage managers can concentrate on crafting your more important messages and campaigns. And because people will be checking your screens for the latest updates, they’ll see your other communications at the same time.

Understand how automated content can save you time and increase audience engagement
Walk through the top 11 automated feeds you should be showing on your digital signs
Learn how content subscriptions can take care of content sourcing and design for you
Explore social media, pop culture and infotainment content ideas and examples

Read the FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content

Storytelling & Text Tips for Digital Signs

EPISODE 16 | Guest: Jill Perardi, creative services manager for Visix

While a good amount of what you put on your digital signs is visual, the main component is always going to be text. But which words are most effective? Are some fonts better than others? What about tying multiple messages into longer stories?

By writing effective copy and using campaigns, you can create a narrative that’s more engaging and more memorable than one-off messages. People are more likely to engage with a story than a sentence, and they’re also more likely to tell their friends and colleagues about it.

Jill Perardi shares text tips for digital signs, as well as her experience and insight on how best to adapt your messages to this unique format.

Learn why campaigns can be more effective than single messages
Explore different storytelling formats with real-world examples
Get font tips on advice for writing effective copy
Understand keywords and language trends
Know which types of words are best, and which to avoid
Find useful links for online tools in our episode transcript

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design

13 Ways to Fail at Digital Signage

EPISODE 15 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

Over the years, we’ve seen a lot of systems get installed with lots of excitement and high expectations, then languish or fail altogether because the client didn’t ask for advice. So, we’re being preemptive with this podcast to explain the most common digital signage mistakes and pitfalls.

Usually, no one’s to blame for bad digital signage. It’s simply a matter of not understanding the tool, and what’s required for success. Just like the table saw you got for your birthday, you need to educate yourself on the dos and don’ts before diving in.

Sean Matthews gives us missteps he’s seen clients take when deploying and maintaining their systems. These real-world examples can be cautionary tales for anyone who either uses or is considering digital signage as a communications tool.

Learn about the most common mistakes people make with screens
Get advice on what NOT to do, based on years of real-world experience
Understand why good layout, contrast, imagery and animation is essential
Discover how tailoring content and calls to action can increase engagement
Explore best practices for playlists and message scheduling
Consider future-proofing your teams and processes

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

Gamification Ideas for Digital Signage

EPISODE 14 | Host: Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

Digital signage is all about engagement. And to engage your audience, you have to offer them something interesting and compelling on screens.

Adding game elements to digital signage messages and campaigns greatly increases engagement, and give you measurable ROI at the same time. You’re already asking viewers to do something with a call to action in your messages. Why not make it fun? Gamification done right can boost both engagement and productivity, because it creates a sense of play and offers a reward. That’s a win for both the viewer and the organization.

We’ll give you gamification ideas with step-by-step advice on how to structure a contest, what kinds of rewards to offer, and examples of how to gamify messages you already have.

Learn what gamification is and why you should care about it
Understand the four basic steps basic of gamification
Get specific tips on how to apply gamification to digital signage
Discover different types of incentives to boost participation
Explore gamification ideas for seven markets

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content

Communications Planning for Digital Signs

EPISODE 13 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

Digital signage is about reaching people, engaging people, and getting them to do something. Don't get bogged down in the technology. Don't get bogged down in day-to day tasks. You really need to think strategically about all stages of the communications process.

In this podcast, we’ll give you a good grounding in the basics of communications planning to help make your digital signage more efficient and effective.

Find out why you need a communications plan
Understand each stage in the communications cycle
Get real-world tips for strategic messaging
Learn the six Ds of communications
Explore how to craft a written communications plan

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

Best Practices for Digital Signage Layouts & Playlists

EPISODE 12 | Guest: Jill Perardi, creative services manager for Visix

What you put on your screens is important, but so is how you put it on them. And when. And how often. Too much content can drive your audience away, and too little can make them uninterested in what you’re showing. You’ve spent time crafting the perfect messages, and just as much thought needs to go into your digital signage layouts and playlists.

As with many things, the best practices come down to “it depends”. We’ll go through some real-world examples to help narrow that down, talking about the best ideas for how to divide up your screen real estate, when to publish which messages, how to organize playlists, when to use audio, and more.

Learn about using attractors in layouts
Understand layout designs for different audiences
Get tips on how to organize playlists
Appreciate the advantages of daypart scheduling
Know when to use video and audio

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design

Metrics & Measures on Digital Signs

EPISODE 11 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

The modern workplace thrives on data – it stimulates teamwork, drives performance, provides transparency, and allows the organization to see how they’re performing against goals. Since you’re already using your screens to motivate your audience, it’s just common sense to include metrics on digital signs.

In this episode, we’ll look at data mapping, data-triggered content, data visualizations and other unique ways to use your digital signs to create a productive and mutually beneficial feedback loop between management and employees.

Learn how metrics on digital signs can affect human behavior
Explore data mapping to external sources
Understand data-triggered content and how it is different
Know the difference between data visualizations and dashboards
Get real-world examples of metrics and gamification

FULL TRANSCRIPT

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

16 Digital Signage Start Up Tips

EPISODE 10 | Host: Derek DeWitt, communications specialist for Visix

You’ve selected a digital signage vendor with all the components and services you’ll need. So, just pick a date for installation, right? Nope. Even though you’ve worked out a lot of details for your system in order to shop around and buy it, you still have more to do to ensure your implementation is a success. Putting together a digital signage start up plan will save you time and headaches in the long run.

In our podcast, we give you a 16-step guide to put everything in place before a single screen goes on the wall. We’ll discuss ideas on best practices with some seasoned advice, and also cover how to avoid some typical pitfalls.

-Get step-by-step advice on building a digital signage start up plan

-Understand who needs to be involved at each phase

-Review how to organize goals, infrastructure and content plans

-Learn how to employ training, policies and user roles

-Find out how to successfully pilot, launch, test and maintain your system

FULL TRANSCRIPT

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

Launching a Digital Signage Pilot

EPISODE 9 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, client relationship manager for Visix

Running a digital signage pilot is a vital step for every installation, no matter the size. Whether you’re launching a new system for the first time, or adjusting one that has changed or grown, you need to be able to see how things will go before you “go live” in front of your audience.

It’s better to make a few mistakes during a pilot than when the audience you’re trying to impress is watching. Consider it something like a dress rehearsal. Whether you’re trying out new software for the first time or overhauling your look, a pilot gives you a chance to launch, measure and adjust without alienating viewers.

However, there are right and wrong ways to approach a pilot. You need to make sure to include all stakeholders, have measurable goals and reasonable timelines. Doing it half-baked can be as bad as not doing it at all.

-Understand the benefits of running a digital signage pilot

-Get an overview of the pilot process

-Explore different types of pilot goals

-Learn how to assemble and train your team

-Review how to assess and adjust

Get the FULL TRANSCRIPT

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

Digital signage is ubiquitous in retail, and is being adopted more and more for organizational communications. This podcast discusses the basics of what’s in a digital signage system, and why it’s a good option for anyone trying to engage employees, students or visitors. We look at the technology, give you real-world stats that prove it works, and cover additional considerations like enterprise features and alerts to round out the case for using digital signs in any setting. Whether you’re trying to convince your organization to adopt digital signage, or you need to convince management to augment your current system, this podcast will help.

Understand the various components of a digital signage system and what they do. Learn how digital signs are more effective and engaging than print communications. Explore how employee engagement can provide measurable bottom-line results. Appreciate the benefits of democratizing and unifying communications. Get an overview of the capabilities of an enterprise deployment.

GET THE FULL TRANSCRIPT at https://www.visix.com/resources/podcasts/dsdr/what-is-digital-signage-why-you-need-it/

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview at https://www.visix.com/resources/guides/digital-signage-systems-overview/

Digital Signage Design Primer 2 - Practical Tips

EPISODE 8 | Guest: Jill Perardi, creative services manager for Visix

If people don’t like what’s on your screens, they won’t look at them. It’s that simple. If your screens are boring or ugly, people won’t just tune out, they’ll turn off. And that means you’re spending a lot of time and money for no good reason.

What constitutes “good design” is a subjective topic, but there are some tried-and-true practices you can employ to make sure your screens attract attention, engage viewers, and reinforce your message instead of detracting from it.

If you’re tasked with creating content for screens, you may not have had design training. Or, you’ve been trained on PowerPoint or print design, but not this specific medium. This podcast, a companion to our previous one, will give you practical digital signage design tips that you can start using today.

Get our top six digital design tips.
Learn how to reinforce brand standards in your designs.
Understand how to use backgrounds effectively.
Explore how themes and templates can improve designs and streamline workflows.
Consider how display specs, interactivity and ADA requirements affect design.

GET THE FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design

12 Ways to Increase Engagement with Digital Signs

EPISODE 6 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, client relationship manager for Visix

Effective communication drives employee engagement and improves financial performance. Digital signage is one of the most powerful communication tools an organization can use to help foster and maintain high engagement levels.

A Gallup poll showed that effective employee engagement leads to higher productivity, profitability and customer ratings. It also helps to lower absenteeism, turnover, quality defects and safety incidents. All of this leads to a happy, healthy workplace with measurable bottom-line results.

Engagement with your external audience is also important, creating higher involvement and event attendance, improved safety, increased revenues, a better sense of community and an improved overall visitor experience.

No matter who your digital signs are in front of, you need to engage them or you’re wasting time and money.

Understand why engagement matters to your organization.
Explore concrete ideas on how to attract viewers.
Learn basic design tips for creating effective screen content.
Discover the advantages of interactive touchscreens.
Get 12 tips to increase engagement with your digital signage.

BONUS: Get our handy infographic outlining these 12 steps for quick reference.

GET THE FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

14 Quick Digital Signage Content Ideas

EPISODE 5 | Guest: Ellyce Kelly, client relationship manager for Visix

Content is king in communications, and with digital signage it is literally the entire point. Sure, your screens might look good, but if what’s on them has no value to the audience, they’ll just stop paying attention.

It can be difficult to come up with something new to show on your screens every single day, but that’s the goal. We’ve put together this podcast to help give you some digital signage content ideas and inspiration. There are some things you can create on your own, but you also probably have a lot of existing content that can be repurposed for your digital signs, and a lot of great sources for content within your organization.

Understand how to source and convert PowerPoint presentations for digital signage.
Learn about turning your print materials into digital messaging.
Recognize when and where to use videos on digital signs.
Explore interactivity for engagement, with or without touchscreens.
Get 11 more great ideas for digital signage messages that will engage viewers.

BONUS: Get our Digital Signage Cheat Sheet with 100 content ideas.

GET THE FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 3: Digital Signage Content

How to Connect with Three Generations in the Workforce

EPISODE 4 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

The days of impersonal employment are over. Sure, in our grandparents’ day, it was enough to have a job that paid well enough to raise a family, and after 50 years you got a gold watch. But the 21st century is a very different time, and people’s expectations and motivations have changed drastically.

A lot of this shift in focus was started by the Baby Boomers, who wanted a new approach to the work environment, and then continued by their children, Generation X. The newest generation in the workforce – millennials – are the product of these changes in perspective, and what they want is very different than previous generations.

This podcast continues our conversation about audience motivations in our previous episode. We take a look at each of the generations in the workforce, with special emphasis on millennials who have drastically changed the workplace culture. To be effective communicators, we need to understand these differences in order to appeal to each generation in the workplace.

Understand the differences in the generations currently in the workplace.
Get tips to engage Boomers and Gen X with different content types and designs.
Learn what’s important to millennials and why you should care.
Explore the new workforce, their priorities, and what to show on signs to engage them.

GET THE FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

Understanding Audience Motivations

EPISODE 3 | Guest: Debbie DeWitt, marketing communications manager for Visix

What does audience motivation have to do with digital signage? Why can’t I just put a message up on the screen? Digital signs are a medium for communications, and good communications always start with understanding the target audience.

If you don't understand what motivates your viewers, then you can't know what's going to attract and interest them. You have to start with what drives the individuals in your environment, whether it’s an office, a factory floor or a university. Every viewer is going to be different, but there are some universal human motivations you can connect with.

Our podcast gives you an overview of widely accepted theories on motivations – both external and internal – and ideas of how you can appeal to each with digital signage messaging.

Understand why motivation matters for audience engagement.
Review self-determination theory, extrinsic and intrinsic motivations.
Get practical examples of content that appeals to each motivation.
Extrinsic: physical, safety, love/belonging, esteem, self-actualization
Intrinsic: learning, connection, affinity, business, creative, expectation

GET THE FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 2: Digital Signage Communications Planning

Digital Signage Design Primer 1 - Basic Foundations

EPISODE 7 | Guest: Jill Perardi, creative services manager for Visix

People are busy. People are distracted. How will you get them to look at your screens, digest what’s there, remember it and take action?

A good digital signage design plan is a lot more than fonts and colors. This unique medium requires a different mindset and skillset than print and other traditional design types. Before you launch Photoshop or pick a PowerPoint template, you need to understand what motivates your audience and how different designs may attract or repel them.

In this podcast, we’ll review some design psychology and trends to help you build a solid foundation. By better understanding your audience and using proven design practices, you can avoid common mistakes and create content that will engage and excite your viewers.

Learn why content planning and good design matters for audience engagement.
Understand how design for digital signage is unique and how it differs from print design.
Discover the psychology behind design – colors, emotional triggers and core values.
Explore design trends and some tried-and-true design practices.
Get tips for including an effective call to action in every design.
Avoid eight common digital signage design mistakes.

GET THE FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 4: Digital Signage Design

8 Steps to Plan a Digital Signage System

EPISODE 2 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

Digital signage is only as good as your plan for how you’ll use it. Not just what’s on the screens, but the entire deployment. Defining what you want to achieve, who will contribute, and how you’ll physically install and connect the system are all critical parts of successfully deploying any comprehensive digital signage system. In fact, these things need to be planned out before a single screen goes live.

This podcast gives you a step-by-step plan to follow before you start taking bids for your system. If you already have a system in place, you can still review these eight steps to see where you might improve operations.

Learn how to assemble your digital signage team and set goals.
Know how to define your audience and the content that will attract them.
Review important networking, software and hardware considerations.
Find out what to budget for at time of purchase and over the life of the system.
Avoid the most common mistakes and misconceptions with digital signage.

GET THE FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview

What Is Digital Signage | Why You Need It

EPISODE 1 | Guest: Sean Matthews, president and CEO of Visix

Digital signage is ubiquitous in retail, and is being adopted more and more for organizational communications. This podcast discusses the basics of what’s in a digital signage system, and why it’s a good option for anyone trying to engage employees, students or visitors. We look at the technology, give you real-world stats that prove it works, and cover additional considerations like enterprise features and alerts to round out the case for using digital signs in any setting. Whether you’re trying to convince your organization to adopt digital signage, or you need to convince management to augment your current system, this podcast will help.

Understand the various components of a digital signage system and what they do.
Learn how digital signs are more effective and engaging than print communications.
Explore how employee engagement can provide measurable bottom-line results.
Appreciate the benefits of democratizing and unifying communications.
Get an overview of the capabilities of an enterprise deployment.

GET THE FULL TRANSCRIPT HERE

Learn more about this topic in our Masterclass Guide 1: Digital Signage Systems Overview