Starbuck's concerns over using technology in what is otherwise a very simple business - shows how much damage the experience of system unreliability has done to our industry. However the times move on - and in the competitive world of take-out coffee, developing the customer experience cannot be ignored.. (read more)

API development (allowing different software to talk to each other) is an exciting area of development in digital signage. Companies use API integration to enable each other: ie BroadSign/SeeSaw, and to enable their customers: ie Scala/Toronto Wellness Center. It is both another form of consolidation and.. (read more)

With newspaper revenues falling and digital on the rise, it is interesting that Gannett, one of America’s largest newspaper groups, is still one of the only such media companies to be actively building a screen network. Gannett snapped up Captivate Network in 2004 and has been quietly building it since.. (read more)

Although digital signage is usually linked to customer facing operations, networks can also be incredibly beneficial targeting employees. Kroger's creation of its own TV studio is really interesting, it shows they appreciate the importance of content in feeding the network and of ensuring cost and quality targets are met.. (read more)

Display companies have endeavored to get into the digital signage market as a way to sell more panels. Most have at one time or another launched their own software and integrated PC systems. In most cases they have quickly learnt that digital signage is not AV - and a tough sell for hardware focused businesses.. (read more)

EuroShop the vast triennial retail expo held in Dusseldorf Germany wraps up today. With 18 halls crammed full of every kind of retail fitting and 100,000 visitors and exhibitors filling the aisles - the 6 day show is THE event for the retail supply market. Confusing, exhausting and crowded as it might be.. (read more)

If growth in the industry was measured by the range of different commentators, bloggers, forums and news services that have recently sprung up – then it would seem that the digital signage industry is in for a busy year. To an outsider it might appear that our industry suddenly has a lot to say.. (read more)

It all started with the idea of adding news and weather to make digital signage appear a little more interesting. However in most cases this type of generic information just looked and felt like 'filler'. Looking for specific vertical solutions that provide relevant real-time information partnerships is a more compelling proposition.. (read more)

We have seen companies linking to provide 3rd party content management systems, audience measurement and compliance reporting, and scaled media buying for brand agencies. This has all been within the digital signage arena - but with this acquisition Scala are stepping outside of the digital signage world.. (read more)

In the world of convergence - IT guys are having to learn how to loosen their ties and learn to talk the media talk. Digital Signage creates a problem for the traditional CISCO channel partner - as the selling process crosses over into a marketing department who are unlikely to want to hear just features and functions.. (read more)