Webology’s Guide to Monitoring and Control Solutions for Advertisers
Table of Contents
Digital out-of-home advertising is a powerful way to get relevant eyeballs on virtually any offer. It’s location-specific and can be triggered by many unique events that allow advertisers to dynamically change messaging depending on the viewer’s context.
That’s great, but chances are you’re nowhere near the spot your campaign’s running. So how do you even know if your ads are being delivered? That’s where digital signage software can help. With the right DOOH monitoring tool, you can know if your content is displaying the way it should 24/7.
Digital signage software helps you monitor every piece of digital content in real time, helping you make necessary adjustments whenever you need to.
However, not all digital signage tools are created equal, which means you need to have some criteria before choosing one for your advertising goals.
In this guide, we’ll get into the factors to consider before picking a DOOH monitoring tool.
This is going to be a deep dive into DOOH advertising and monitoring, making it the only article you need to read to move forward with confidence.
Let’s take control of our campaigns and get the most out of ad spend together.
What is Digital Signage Software?![a digital sign in a grocery store](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Digital-Signage-Software.jpg)
Before diving into specific details, it’s important that you understand the DOOH advertising ecosystem.
A digital signage system essentially has two parts:
- The hardware
- The software
Digital signage software is what pushes the content to the display and monitors/controls everything.
It consists of a CMS (Content Management System) that lets you manage the network from one central dashboard.
It’s the backbone of the entire network. The hardware is a simple LED screen connected to networking equipment that allows for a remote connection. This is typically done through WiFi or cell networks.
Best DOOH Monitoring Tools – Use Cases![a computer with gears coming out of it](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Monitoring-Tools.jpg)
Here are some of the most common use cases of DOOH monitoring tools:
- Using digital signage software, you can deliver content on DOOH screens in high-traffic areas
- You can deliver ads to digital screens through digital signage software in a geofenced area
- The technology also lets you deliver programmatic advertising campaigns based on real-world events like concerts or weather-triggering
- And more
Important Features to Consider While Choosing a DOOH Monitoring Solution
Now, not all DOOH monitoring tools are created equal. Plus, some might be good overall, but may not satisfy your unique needs.
Here are the features you need to be aware of before selecting a DOOH monitoring tool.
You can also think of them as the benefits of investing in the right DOOH monitoring platform like the ability to identify screen downtime. These tools also allow you to schedule content playback according to specific time frames and locations. This ensures that your ads are reaching the right audience at the right time.
Support for Popular Media Formats![a set of icons with different colors](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Popular-Media-Formats.jpg)
One of the first things to look at is the range of digital media formats the tool supports.
If you’re looking to showcase static images, the monitoring tool should be able to handle JPEG or PNG files.
For dynamic media, such as videos, you’ll have to make sure it supports mp4 files, at least.
Maybe you have a specific requirement, such as 4K video support. Double-check if the software supports that.
For dynamic content, HTML5 support would be needed.
Stability and Uptime![a clock with arrows and gears](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Stability-and-Uptime.jpg)
Display advertising requires consistent monitoring. You don’t want your content to disappear even for a few moments.
Errors, crashes, and other malfunctions can lead to downtime, which can negatively impact the overall experience.
Great uptime guarantees maximum ad exposure. Whereas, high stability prevents technical errors that could lead to campaign disruption.
The best DOOH software offers unwavering stability and uptime.
Security![a green shield with a lock and icons](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Security.jpg)
A successful hacking attempt can render your digital advertising efforts useless.
Your digital content is in the public eye, making it vulnerable to bad actors.
Make sure your software solution is capable of locking out unauthorized access to your system. This not only protects your content but also builds trust with your audience.
The right DOOH software will have the necessary security measures in place to ensure the safety and integrity of your advertising content. From firewalls to encryption, robust security features are a must-have for any digital advertising campaign.
Scalability![a logo with arrows pointing away from the center](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Scalability.jpg)
Even the best DOOH monitoring tools can be problematic if they don’t meet your scalability requirements.
For instance, some digital signage software platforms only support up to 20 screens.
If you want to use more than that, you’ll have to use a tool that can scale with you.
You May Also Like: DOOH (Digital Out of Home) Advertising Statistics
Remote Monitoring
The ability to monitor your DOOH software from one centralized dashboard remotely can be a game-changer.
It not only saves time but also lets you make last-minute changes or adjust your strategy from anywhere you want.
So, you might want to prefer a DOOH monitoring tool that offers seamless and effective remote control.
Targeted Ad Serving
Targeted digital advertising offers the following benefits:
- More relevant to the target audience
- More cost-effective for buyers
- More effective and result-oriented
A good DOOH management tool offers all those benefits through granular targeting.
What this means is that as an advertiser, you can define certain criteria for your ad, including:
- The age and location of a prospect
- The financial market data
- Weather conditions
- And more
This enables you to pick a perfect time to put your content in front of the right people.
Automated Content Delivery![a green and black circular globe with arrows around it](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Content-Delivery.jpg)
Manually scheduling content can be a headache, especially if you have a large network.
Plus, if there’s a last-minute change, you may need to reschedule a bunch of content, which can be too much work.
With a DOOH monitoring tool, you can minimize the hassle. Just enter the parameters you want your content to show under and the tool will take care of the rest.
Expandability![a Webology logo with arrows in center](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Expandability.jpg)
At a certain point, you might want to expand your network and integrate other tools such as an audience analytics tool.
In order to run and manage industry-leading digital campaigns, you’ll need to make sure your software offers integration with other tools. DOOH monitoring tools often offer this integration, making it easier for you to expand and improve your network.
Multi-Screen Capabilities![a group of different devices](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Multi-Screen.jpg)
A single digital screen is generally enough to put your digital content in front of your audience.
However, if you have the option to use multiple of them, you might not want to pass on that opportunity.
There are two ways you can use multiple screens:
- Showcase a single content using multiple screens
- Present your content on multiple screens separately like a mirror image
Content Caching![a computer screen with various objects](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Content-Caching.jpg)
Seamless live content delivery is what you need with your DOOH solution.
However, it’s not always the right course of action.
For instance, you may encounter blank screens or slow content loading.
To overcome that challenge, you can use content caching.
Your software will cache the content a few minutes before the delivery to ensure a smooth experience.
Dynamic Content![a logo of a computer](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Dynamic-Content.jpg)
Dynamic content is the type of content that changes based on factors, such as:
- Traffic levels
- Weather
- And more
The issue is not every digital solution offers dynamic content support.
You’ll have to make sure the one you go with offers this feature.
Support for Programmatic Delivery
Another important factor to consider while choosing digital signage software is support for programmatic sales. With this feature, you won’t have to worry about picking the right advertisers for your displays as it’s handled by the tool.
You can use software to allocate spots for advertisers that fulfill certain requirements automatically.
Emergency Messaging Feature
Being able to communicate an important message, whether it’s good or bad, is of utmost importance in digital advertising.
You need to be able to interrupt a running campaign to showcase an important message that needs the instant attention of your audience.
A digital signage tool with a built-in emergency messaging feature allows you to send a quick message on the fly.
Here are a couple of the most prominent benefits of using the right DOOH monitoring system.
Advantage | Description |
---|---|
Ability to Monitor Uptime | Digital displays can be monitored remotely in real time, ensuring the advertisement is always active and visible, unlike traditional billboards which require manual checks. |
Constantly Rotate Messaging | Digital displays allow for flexible, dynamic content changes without additional production costs, making it possible to rotate messages frequently to target different audiences or promote various products. |
You can use DOOH advertising in a wide range of industries. Here’s a list of potential use cases for digital out-of-home advertising.
- Brand Awareness Campaigns
- Product Launches
- Seasonal Promotions
- Event Promotions
- Tourism Advertising
- Political Campaigns
- Real Estate Advertising
- Retail Advertising
- Public Health Campaigns
- Sports Events Advertising
- Educational Campaigns
- Automotive Advertising
- Financial Services Marketing
- Technology Product Promotion
- Food and Beverage Advertising
- Fashion and Apparel Marketing
- Travel and Hospitality Promotions
- Telecommunications Services Advertising
- Charity and Social Awareness Campaigns
- Corporate Announcements
- Local Business Advertising
- Malls and Shopping Centers Promotions
- Festivals and Fairs Promotion
- Theatrical Releases
- Conference and Exhibition Advertising
- Healthcare Services Marketing
- Restaurant and Dining Promotions
- New Store Openings
- Fitness and Wellness Campaigns
- Luxury Goods Advertising
- Transportation Services Promotion
- Government Announcements
- Non-Profit Organization Campaigns
- Job Fairs and Recruitment Drives
- Agricultural Products Marketing
- Environmental Campaigns
- Subscription Services Advertising
- Pharmaceutical Advertising
Important Metrics to Monitor with Digital Signage Software
There’s actually a bunch of information you should track to make sure your DOOH advertising campaign is running smoothly. Here’s a list of the most important ones in a table format:
Item to Monitor | Description | Importance | Monitoring Frequency | Tools/Methods |
---|---|---|---|---|
Screen Uptime | Ensuring the screen is active and displaying content as intended | High | Real-time | Network monitoring software |
Power Losses | Recording and analyzing any power outages or interruptions | High | Real-time | UPS systems, power monitoring tools |
Impressions | Tracking the number of times ads are displayed | High | Daily | Ad server analytics |
Foot Traffic Data | Collecting data on the number of individuals passing by the display | Medium | Daily | People counters, sensor systems |
Temperature | Monitoring the temperature of the display to prevent overheating | Medium | Hourly | Thermal sensors |
Content Refresh Rate | Ensuring that the displayed content is updated regularly | Medium | Weekly | Content management system (CMS) |
Network Connectivity | Ensuring continuous connectivity for content and data updates | High | Real-time | Network monitoring tools |
Software Updates | Regular updates to software to ensure smooth operation | Medium | Monthly | Remote management tools |
Interactive Engagement | Measuring user interaction with touch-screen features | Low | Weekly | Engagement analytics |
Screen Brightness | Adjusting brightness based on ambient light conditions | Medium | Hourly | Built-in sensors |
Learn More – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)![a blue and yellow FAQ chat bubble](https://webology.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Learn-more-on-DOOH.jpg)
Let’s talk about some frequently asked questions about DOOH monitoring solutions.
Q: What is DOOH and how does it differ from traditional digital content solutions?
A: DOOH stands for Digital Out-Of-Home advertising. Unlike traditional digital content solutions that might target audiences via personal devices like smartphones or laptops, DOOH focuses on delivering engaging and dynamic content via public digital displays. This can include billboards, video screens in malls, and digital signage at bus stops or train stations.
Q: How do you measure DOOH?
To measure digital out-of-home advertising, you’d need to use a monitoring tool to track certain metrics such as viewer impressions, engagement rates, and conversion metrics. Digital signage tools track screen performance and campaign effectiveness, allowing you to optimize your efforts for a better ROI.
Q: How do you measure DOOH ROI?
To measure the ROI of your digital out-of-home advertising, monitor metrics like viewer impressions, engagement rates, and conversions. Compare your results with the total costs incurred and you’ll get your ROI.
Q: How does a DOOH monitoring software help improve my campaigns?
A: The right DOOH monitoring software provides real-time monitoring, data collection, and performance metrics for your digital content. This means you can track how well your content is performing, make on-the-fly adjustments, and optimize your campaigns to maximize engagement and impact.
Q: What kind of data and metrics can I track with digital signage tools?
A: Digital signage tools offer in-depth data insights, including audience measurement, content performance metrics, advertising impressions, and ROI analysis. By leveraging this data, you can generate comprehensive reports and make informed decisions.
Q: What industries can benefit from digital signage solutions?
A: Digital signage solutions are versatile and can cater to a range of industries including retail, hospitality, transportation, corporate communication, and more. These solutions help engage customers, manage traffic, and maximize exposure efficiently, making them invaluable across diverse verticals.
Make The Most Of Your Advertising Campaign
Digital out-of-home advertising allows you to reach a targeted audience and generate an attractive return on ad spend (ROAS). But, only if you use the right monitoring tools.
A digital monitoring tool helps you track display pixels and the effectiveness of your ad campaigns. It helps you ensure your efforts and investment are getting the desired outcome.
This article talks about the qualities of a digital monitoring tool you should be looking at before using it. By now, you should be able to pick the right tracking software for your needs.