Digital signage and kiosks help enterprises build more meaningful interactions with their customers and are increasingly common in all sorts of settings, from retail stores and restaurants to offices, airports, factories, and more. But what's the best way to power all these displays?
The Challenges of Managing Digital Signs and Kiosks
Some applications may have 3-4 digital signs, such as in a single-location restaurant use case. There can be hundreds of screens in other cases, such as in airports, factories, large warehouses, and more.
Managing a large network of digital signs or kiosks can be tricky. Here are some of the biggest challenges:
- Content Creation and Scheduling: Keeping content fresh and engaging across multiple displays requires a streamlined workflow. You'll need a system for creating, approving, and scheduling content efficiently to avoid delays or outdated information.
- Remote Management: It can be difficult to physically visit each sign or kiosk to make updates, troubleshoot problems, or install new software. Ideally, you'll need a system for remote management that allows you to control everything from a central location.
- Security: Digital signage and kiosks can be vulnerable to hacking or malware, especially in public settings. Ensuring a secure system protects your content and prevents unauthorized access.
- Hardware Maintenance: With many devices spread out, keeping hardware updated and troubleshooting technical issues can be a logistical nightmare. Ideally, you want reliable hardware with a long lifespan to minimize downtime.
- Network Connectivity: Maintaining a stable and reliable network connection is crucial for smooth operation. Spotty internet can lead to content glitches or outages, defeating the purpose of your signage.
Digital signage vendors can help you solve many of these challenges. And as the computer “engine,” a powerful Chromebox can be an important asset to drive your digital sign solution.
Why a Chromebox is a Great Fit for Digital Signage and Kiosks
The Chromebox is a versatile, powerful choice to drive digital signage and kiosks. Here’s why:
- Security: Chrome OS is known for its bulletproof security, keeping your signage and kiosks safe from malware and other threats. This is crucial, especially in public settings where kiosks might be exposed to tampering.
- Reliability: Built for continuous operation, the Google Chromebox runs smoothly for long stretches. This means you can trust your signage and kiosks to display your content consistently without unexpected crashes.
- Easy Management: Managing multiple kiosks or signs can be a hassle. A Chromebox simplifies things by allowing you to deploy and manage everything from a central location using the Google Admin console. This saves you time and ensures all your displays are running the latest software and content. One Chromebox can typically power up to 4 4K displays.
- Versatility: No matter your needs, there's a CTL Chromebox to suit your application. From basic models with Intel Celeron processors to powerful machines with Intel Core-i7 processors, you can find the perfect balance of performance and affordability.
- Cost-Effective: Chromeboxes are generally less expensive than traditional PCs. Plus, the lower maintenance requirements and extended lifespan contribute to their overall cost-effectiveness.
Your Chromebox Partner: What to Look For
Whatever your needs, ensure you work with a Chromebox partner that can offer end-to-end configuration services, integration with your software, ZTE services, lifecycle management from purchase through responsible recycling, and Google Enterprise license bundling.
For smaller applications, consider a refurbished Chromebox as an eco-friendly, budget-wise solution.
At CTL, we go beyond manufacturing and selling Chromebox solutions. We offer 35+ years of computing experience with digital signs and kiosk solutions deployed in over 25 countries today. The CTL team works side-by-side with you to optimize and deliver a Chromebox solution for your specific needs.
CTL’s Chromebox solution integrates with major digital signage providers including Comeen, UPshow, and Signagelive.
