Digital signage is now an essential tool for communications and advertising. It’s an extremely versatile and effective medium, that can be refreshed on a regular basis to display the most relevant content.

This is a huge advantage over traditional static print signage, but there are some mistakes to avoid if you want to make the most of your LED screens.

Using the wrong scale

If you get the scale of the content wrong, then it doesn’t matter how crisp and clear the screen is, because it still will be difficult to read from a distance. Remember that even a large outdoor screen will not be a success unless the scale is correct!

For example, if you want the sign to be read from 100ft distance, the letters should be at least 10 inches high, and for 200ft visibility, they should be 20 inches high, and so on. Keep sentences to five words of fewer where possible. The small print can be dealt with later!

Not considering the context

Context is linked to scale of course. Consider where the sign will be viewed, and who your target audience are. Will they be seeking out detailed information and have close access to the sign, or is it in a high traffic location and needs to be comprehensible from one glance?

Also make sure that the sign complies with local planning and advertising rules and regulations.

Using the wrong brightness

The level of screen brightness you need will be affected by its location, so this is the first thing you need to decide. For example, it is easy to make the mistake of assuming that if it is in a brightly lit location, you will not need a very bright screen. In fact, full sunlight or electric overhead lights make the screen appear duller, so a high-brightness screen is best.