The only constant is change. Within any technically-driven business model, change is always rapid. We’re also seeing the rate of change rapidly advance over time as well, making it difficult for the unsophisticated to adapt quickly. Digital signage is such an industry. One area in which digital signage may be seeing a large shift is in the realm of digital signage displays, especially when it comes to the form-factor.

Just to be clear, I’ve not done extensive market research analysis or surveys of customers. My opinions are solely my own and simply based on gut instincts and general observance of the types of leads and deals we’re seeing on a regular basis.

Reduction in the Form-Factor

The size of the standard demanded for digital signage displays is decreasing. Here are a few reasons why:

• The cost. Smaller displays are cheaper. Not only are they cheaper generally, but on a per square inch of display coverage cost they are also less. That means you can cover more area with less money.
• The impact. People still react and respond to smaller displays, especially if the installation is performed effectively.
• Tablet/mobile demand. I often wonder if the demand for smaller displays has been fueled somewhat by consumer demand for tablets. As consumers are becoming more accustomed to smaller displays on tablets and smartphones, we’re seeing greater demand for similar-sized options in the realms of digital signage.
• The content. With less space to fill, the content needs to be well-thought out, but often is much more simple than flashy graphics. Any chance digital signage operators get to simplify their lives, they’ll take it. Great content should and will take up most of the post-installation management of the network. It’s easier to manage such content when the form-factor of the content and the area size in which to state the message is much smaller.

Certainly we’ll not be seeing large format displays cease their existence, especially as huge display screens continue to be installed in venues like sport’s arenas, but in places like banks where small digital signage is effective, we are already seeing a larger demand for iPad-sized or equivalent installations.

The nomenclature of “digital signage” will probably be close to dead in the next five to ten years as the technology morphs to fit customer demand. And as customers continue to desire smaller displays, the industry could eventually be an unrecognizable shell of its former self.