In this digital age, visual communication is key, and it’s no wonder that digital signage has become a staple in businesses and public spaces alike. With countless potential uses, from advertisements to directional guides, digital signage is both functional and appealing. But, as with any medium, the design can make or break its effectiveness. To help you create stunning digital signage that captivates your audience and drives your message home, here are six essential design tips, presented by Kitcast.

1. Keep It Simple, Sweetie

Limit your text: Less is more when it comes to digital signage. Use short, succinct phrases that get straight to the point, making it easier for your audience to absorb the information quickly.

Choose the right font: Opt for clean, legible typefaces that won’t strain the eyes or cause confusion. Remember, script fonts may look beautiful, but they’re not always the most readable choice.

Stick to a limited color palette: Use a few complementary colors to make your design pop without overwhelming the viewer. As a rule of thumb, stick to two or three primary colors, and use contrast effectively to ensure your text stands out against the background.

2. Embrace Hierarchy and Structure

Prioritize information: Determine the most crucial message you want to convey and ensure it’s the focal point of your design. By presenting information in a hierarchical manner, you guide your viewer’s attention through the content effortlessly.

Use headings and subheadings: Break up your content into easily digestible sections with clear headings and subheadings. This will improve readability and make it simpler for your audience to locate the information they need.

3. Imagery Matters

Quality over quantity: High-quality, relevant images can enhance your message and make your signage more engaging. However, be selective – too many images can create visual clutter and dilute your message.

Embrace visuals that resonate with your brand’s essence: Weave in the distinctive hues, emblem, and aesthetic components that represent your brand, crafting digital displays that harmoniously align with your all-encompassing brand persona.

4. Call-to-Action

Keep it clear and concise: Clarity and brevity are paramount when crafting your call-to-action (CTA). Be it a sale, promotion, or event, ensure your audience grasps your intention without a shadow of doubt, using succinct and precise language.

Make it noticeable: Design your CTA to be eye-catching, using contrasting colors, bold fonts, or even animated elements to draw attention and encourage interaction.

5. Animation and Motion: Use Wisely

Subtle is key: While animation can undoubtedly add interest to your digital signage, it’s essential to use it sparingly. Too much movement can be distracting and detract from your message.

Maintain readability: Ensure any motion doesn’t interfere with the legibility of your text. If you’re using animated text, make sure it remains on-screen long enough for viewers to read comfortably.

6. Test, Test, and Test Again

View from various distances: Digital signage is often viewed from afar, so make sure your design remains legible and visually appealing from different distances and angles.

Check color calibration: Colors can vary between screens, so ensure your design looks consistent across all displays.

Solicit feedback: Share your design with colleagues or a test audience, and gather feedback on what works and what can be improved.

In conclusion, effective digital signage relies on a careful balance of simplicity, hierarchy, imagery, calls-to-action, animation, and thorough testing. By incorporating these six design tips into your digital signage, you’ll be well on your way to creating captivating, engaging displays that not only attract attention but effectively communicate your message. Happy designing!

About the Author

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Mirko Humbert

Mirko Humbert is the editor-in-chief and main author of Designer Daily and Typography Daily. He is also a graphic designer and the founder of WP Expert.