Choosing a digital signage partner: Essential features and questions to ask
Digital signage is not just a display. It’s a strategy – and the right partner makes all the difference.
As more businesses embrace digital signage to elevate branding, streamline communication, and engage customers in real time, the decision of which signage company to work with has become more critical than ever. A digital signage network involves more than just mounting screens. It’s a full ecosystem that includes hardware, software, content, strategy, and ongoing support.
Choosing the right digital signage partner can mean the difference between a seamless rollout and an expensive, fragmented mess. This guide will help you understand the essential features to look for and the key questions to ask before making a commitment.
Why choosing the right digital signage partner matters
Digital signage is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Every industry, location, and audience comes with its own set of needs. Choosing a partner that understands the nuances of your business and can offer tailored solutions is essential.
A strong digital signage company will help you:
- Avoid compatibility issues between hardware and software
- Ensure smooth installation and maintenance
- Align signage strategy with your brand and goals
- Scale your solution as your business grows
In contrast, working with the wrong provider may lead to mismatched systems, technical headaches, and underperforming content.
Key features to look for in a digital signage company
When evaluating digital signage providers, keep an eye out for these critical features.
Robust and scalable software platform
The software is the backbone of any digital signage system. Look for a provider that offers a user-friendly, cloud-based content management system (CMS) that allows:
- Real-time content updates
- Multi-location screen management
- Playlist scheduling
- Integration with tools like POS, CRM, and analytics platforms
Scalability is also crucial. As your business grows, your signage software should grow with you.
Custom hardware and installation services
Not all digital signage companies offer installation or hardware sourcing – but they should. A reputable partner should provide:
- A range of display options, from indoor displays to weatherproof outdoor screens
- Custom mounts, frames, and enclosures that fit your branding and space
- Professional installation services that minimize disruption to your business
Ongoing support and maintenance
Your digital signage system is a long-term asset. Look for a company that offers:
- Ongoing technical support
- Remote troubleshooting capabilities
- Software updates and bug fixes
- On-site servicing when necessary
Industry-specific experience
Experience matters. Choose a partner that understands your industry and has a track record of successful deployments. Whether you’re in retail, healthcare, food service, education, or corporate communications, your provider should be able to show relevant case studies and client testimonials.
Do they offer a complete end-to-end solution?
Many businesses underestimate how complex a full signage rollout can be. From hardware to strategy to software configuration, each stage requires attention to detail. Choosing a company that offers a complete, all-in-one solution will streamline your implementation and help avoid common pitfalls.
Initial consultation and strategy development
Your signage journey should begin with a strategy. Does the provider take time to understand your business, goals, audience, and environment? The best partners act as consultants, helping you define objectives, determine screen placement, and plan content based on business KPIs.
Hardware selection and custom fabrication
It’s not just about choosing a screen size. Your digital signage provider should help you:
- Choose hardware suitable for your environment (indoor, outdoor, high-traffic, etc.)
- Customize frames, stands, and enclosures to match your branding
- Ensure your displays are safe, secure, and compliant with local regulations
Software configuration and content support
Even the best CMS platforms can be overwhelming at first. A good partner will help with:
- Initial setup and configuration
- Template creation
- User training
- Content strategy guidance
Some full-service providers also offer ongoing content creation and creative services.
Seamless integration and ongoing management
A strong digital signage partner will not leave you once the screen turns on. They’ll help you integrate with your business systems and offer ongoing management tools so you can:
- Monitor screen health and uptime
- Adjust campaigns in real time
- Access analytics and usage data
Empire Digital Signs: A full-scale digital signage partner
If you’re looking for a digital signage company that truly does it all, Empire Digital Signs is a trusted full-service partner serving businesses across the United States.
Empire offers:
- Strategic consultations to understand your business goals
- Manufacturing of Hardware and custom-built digital signage enclosures
- Advanced software platforms with remote content management
- Professional installation, support, and training
Whether you’re starting small or deploying signage across multiple locations, Empire Digital Signs provides everything needed for a complete, effective, and scalable digital signage solution.
Questions to ask before signing a digital signage partner
Before signing a contract, be sure to ask potential partners the following questions:
- Do you offer both hardware and software, or just one part of the solution?
- Will you help with installation, training, and support?
Can your system scale across multiple locations? - Do you offer integrations with other business platforms?
- How do you measure performance and ROI?
- Can you provide case studies or client testimonials?
These questions will help you gauge whether a company is focused on selling screens or truly committed to long-term partnership.
Conclusion: Invest in the right partner, not just the right product
Digital signage is a high-impact tool when done right – but only if you have the right partner guiding the way. The ideal provider offers not just the technology, but the insight, support, and adaptability your business needs to succeed.
From strategic planning to hardware, software, and everything in between, companies like Empire Digital Signs are setting the standard for what a true digital signage partner should be.
Take the time to choose wisely. Your screens – and your audience – will thank you.