Types of Digital Signage

In today's fast-moving digital world, grabbing customer attention is more competitive than ever. One of the most powerful tools businesses can use is digital signage - a dynamic way to inform, engage, and influence customers.

Whether you’re in retail, hospitality, or any customer-facing industry, choosing the right type of digital signage is key to creating memorable in-store experiences. 

Let’s break down the main types of digital signage, what they’re used for, and how they can transform your venue.

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Informational digital signage.

This is the most common and straightforward type. Informational signage displays key updates, schedules, opening hours, or directions - perfect for:

• Reception areas
  
  
• Transport hubs
  
  
• Conference centres
  
  
• Healthcare facilities
  
  

Best for: Reducing confusion, improving flow, and keeping customers informed in real-time.

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Promotional digital signage.

Got an offer you want people to act on? Promotional signage delivers branded content, product highlights, and special deals in eye-catching formats. Often integrated with seasonal campaigns, this signage grabs attention where it counts.

Used in:

• Retail stores
  
  
• Restaurants & QSRs
  
  
• Shopping centres
  
  

Pro tip: Sync your digital signage with your audio branding solutions in Startle Studio to coordinate visuals and sound for maximum emotional impact. We even have a Branded TV solution, where you create a custom channel by choosing the content that best suits you, your customers and your business needs.

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Interactive digital signage.

Let your customers do the exploring. Interactive signage invites users to engage with touchscreens, QR codes, or motion sensors to discover content on their own terms.

Examples include:

• Wayfinding kiosks
  
  
• Self-service ordering
  
  
• Product finders
  
  
• Customer feedback stations
  
  

Best for: Increasing engagement, reducing staff load, and creating personalised experiences.

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Menu boards.

Digital menu boards are essential for food and beverage businesses. They allow real-time updates to pricing, menu items, and promotions, all without the need for costly reprinting.

Benefits:

• Seamless upselling
  
  
• Day-part scheduling
  
  
• Brand consistency across multiple locations
  
  

Where you’ll see it: Quick-service restaurants (QSRs), cafés, bars, and hospitality venues.

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Video walls.

When you really want to make a statement, go big. Video walls use multiple screens to create large-scale, high-impact visuals - great for storytelling or immersive brand experiences.

Popular in:

• Flagship retail stores
  
  
• Hotels & resorts
  
  
• Event spaces
  
  
• Sports venues
  
  

Did you know? Combined with audio branding, video walls can turn passive spaces into multi-sensory experiences.

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Social & live feed displays.

These signage solutions display user-generated content, reviews, or live feeds from platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or TripAdvisor. It’s a great way to build trust and encourage social sharing.

Perfect for:

• Hospitality venues
  
  
• Retail pop-ups
  
  
• Events & exhibitions
  
  

Why it works: Social proof drives action - and when customers see others engaging, they’re more likely to join in.

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Ambient digital signage.

More subtle than overt promotions, ambient signage is about creating atmosphere. Think ambient visuals, mood lighting, or synced digital art. It’s perfect for setting tone without distraction.