Table of contents
- What is digital signage?
- Paid digital signage solutions
- Free digital signage solutions
- The various uses of digital signage
- The importance of a consistent advertising strategy
- Essential characteristics of a good digital signage software
- Evaluate digital signage solutions on the market
Digital signage makes it possible to broadcast several multimedia contents through screens. Any company looking for sustainable growth now trusts this system. A large number of software for digital presentations are currently available on the internet. As a result, making the right choice is not easy. Here are the 10 best solutions (free and paid) on the market.
What is digital signage?
Digital signage is a modern means of communication that uses screens controlled by software to broadcast multimedia content (texts, images, videos, etc.). Whether indoors or outdoors, in the private sector or public space, this technology differentiates itself from traditional displays by its animated, interactive and tailor-made side. It captures attention and engages audiences in a more effective way thanks to its ability to be engaging, responsive, and flexible.
Paid digital signage solutions
Cenareo, the leading digital signage solution in France
Founded in 2012 in Labège near Toulouse by four engineers graduated from ENSEEIHT, Cenareo has established itself as the reference digital signage solution in France and Europe. Recognized as the simplest solution in the world in its field, Cenareo now manages more than 20,000 connected screens in 32 countries for more than 500 prestigious customers.
A complete and intuitive SaaS solution
Cenareo is a SaaS (Software as a Service) platform hosted on Microsoft Azure servers, guaranteeing security, reliability and performance. As an integral part of the Microsoft for Startups program and having obtained “Co-Sell Ready” status, Cenareo benefits from the recognition of one of the world leaders in technology.
The solution makes it possible to create content in line with the audience targeted by the customer, but also with the context of transmission. The ergonomic and intuitive interface allows rapid internal adoption, especially for local field teams. You can create, manage and broadcast your content on your screens easily, in real time and from anywhere.
A revolutionary plug and play player
An independent player, developed from a Raspberry Pi transformed by two years of R&D into a “magic plug and play box”, is responsible for connecting the screens to the platform. This compact player connects to the screen via an HDMI cable and to the network via Ethernet or WiFi.
With Cenareo, there is no black screen. The broadcast is continuous, even in the event of a loss of player connection. As soon as it is plugged in, the player can be immediately controlled remotely via the content management system (CMS). Players are pre-configured prior to shipping for a quick and easy setup service.
The Cenareo solution is also natively integrated into certain ranges of Samsung Tizen, Sharp, Philips and Android screens, making it possible to do without an external player.
Intelligent programming and contextualization
What really sets Cenareo apart from other solutions is its intelligent programming technology. An algorithm is integrated into each player to detect the best moment to broadcast the content. Unlike traditional solutions that create fixed playlists, Cenareo manages content dynamically and independently.
This tool makes it possible to program advertising campaigns in advance, but also remotely. The algorithm takes into account numerous criteria to contextualize messages: time of day, weather, busy periods, stock levels, hot trends and audience criteria.
This software can also be used to create a personalized advertising campaign based on the audience (gender, age, etc.) by accompanying it with an external device such as a camera. For example, if an ad is for umbrellas, the algorithm may choose to show it when it rains, maximizing the impact of the message.
Centralized and collaborative management
Cenareo offers centralized and remote management of all your screens with an overview of the fleet and users. The platform allows you to communicate contextualized messages to all your audiences, on all your screens.
The solution integrates a granular user rights management system, allowing “glocal” management. The number of user accounts is unlimited, with access controls and permissions to restrict access to certain features to authorized users.
Cenareo offers an interactive dashboard offering real-time visibility for quick adjustments. The multi-user interface makes it easy for teams to collaborate.
Content creation made easy
The Cenareo platform integrates a video creation studio that allows you to easily create and customize online videos. Preconfigured and customizable templates are available in a few clicks, respecting your graphic charter.
You can stream all types of content: videos, images, web pages, web pages, live streams, text messages, PDFs, and location-based information. The solution also supports the integration of rich widgets (weather, RSS feeds, social networks) and dynamic content with real-time data.
Integrations and connectivity
Cenareo is easily connected to your business tools: dashboard, data flow, stock status, etc. A large number of standard feeds are included (weather, traffic, Twitter, Twitter, ephemeris).
The solution also integrates with your Digital Workplace (Microsoft Teams, Google Workspace, Facebook Workplace, Slack) for total digital inclusion.
Proactive supervision and maintenance
In Cenareo's SaaS architecture, the servers are hosted by Cenareo, which makes it possible to react quickly in the event of an incident. The team can also intervene remotely on players hosted on your premises and connected to the Internet.
Cenareo supervises the equipment and warns of any malfunction thanks to its proactive alert system that automatically reports breakdowns. In the event of a major incident on players, a standard exchange per package is included in the subscription. This proactive maintenance ensures optimal operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Prestigious customers
Cenareo has won the trust of major French and international companies: Axa, Boulanger, Etam, Saint-Gobain, Engie, EDF, SNCF, Spie, Veolia, Shell, Fitness Park, Accor, Fitness Park, Accor, Lagardère Travel Retail, Accor, Lagardère Travel Retail, Accor, Lagardère Travel Retail, Accor, Lagardère Travel Retail, Celio, Etam, Saint-Gobain, Saint-Gobain, Engie, EDF, SNCF, Spie, Véolia, Shell, Fitness Park, Accor, Accor, Lagardère Travel Retail, Accor, Lagardère Travel Retail, Accor, Lagardère Travel Retail,
According to a testimony from Boulanger, Cenareo's SaaS offer made it possible to reduce the total cost of ownership of digital signage by 30% in its 182 stores.
Recognition and labels
The excellence of the Cenareo solution has been recognized by numerous labels: Pass French Tech, Bpifrance Excellence, and winner of the “International Company of the Year” award.
Disign
Disign is one of the most complete digital signage software on the market. Designed to manage your screens and distribute your content effectively, powerful, simple and flexible, it adapts to all digital signage strategies of businesses. It allows you to control a single screen or several hundreds. This digital signage software is designed for IT teams, HR, operational managers, retail, public sector or municipalities.
It manages the display of basic media (images, videos, PDFs), rich widgets (weather, web page, RSS feeds), dynamic content with real-time data (databases, APIs) and interactive content, including tactile content.
With Disign, you save time thanks to functionalities that distribute your information and data automatically and efficiently. Deployment is simple, fast, and intuitive, and advanced features provide total control over the entire digital signage management chain.
Signao
The Signao (Computer-Aided Signage) solution is used to share various information in real time. It allows scenarios to be configured, according to internal and/or external flows. This may include bus schedules, weather, traffic conditions, news, etc.
Thanks to this tool, the user broadcasts the scenarios of his choice, while setting the appropriate time to transmit them himself. They are directly broadcast on the interface from any device with an internet connection.
Signao has an interface that can display different content at the same time (text boxes, RSS feeds, images, videos, etc.). To fix the black screen problem, a cache system is integrated into the software. The user can then continue to send content to his screens, even in the absence of an internet connection.
Com'play
Com'play is a digital signage software developed by Anikop. Powerful and intuitive, it is easy to use and fully customizable. The user can choose his playlists himself according to the content broadcast on the screens. It is also he who has the last word concerning the place and time of broadcast, but also the number of screens.
Thanks to the Com'play software, the content broadcast is adapted to the customer's commercial activity and interests. They are transmitted through digital screens. The tool also makes it easy to insert various multimedia contents and to program broadcasts in advance and remotely.
LOOK
LOOK is a digital signage software intended for the remote management of various types of content, executable on media such as a computer or a tablet. Advantageous in the field of communication and marketing, LOOK makes it possible to direct and control the dynamic display of videos, audio media and other types of interactive scenarios useful to each user.
This device on controlled screens offers several functionalities, including the creation of unique layers, the creation of custom areas, the creation of interactive scenarios and adaptive models, the integration with external triggers, the sustained 4K display, the supported 4K display, the graphic editor and offline reading. Users can also create their own dynamic displays using free templates.
Easy to use, stable and reliable, it is available from only 6 dollars. This software is very successful among target customers. It is already deployed in more than 20 countries.
DMCware
Display Media developed the DMCware digital signage software, which is intuitive, user-friendly and highly functional at the same time. It meets any need for the creation, distribution and planning of multimedia content. This can be remotely (via SaaS mode) or on a local network.
This software includes several tabs that allow you to create specific areas from different media. The “Creation” tab allows, for example, to create and improve content. This communication tool makes it possible to control all screens in a connected city. The screens are managed from computers or tablets.
In addition, content planning is done in real time and in advance (up to one year). The user can then choose their own time slots. The DMCware software also has a multi-user interface. This means that the number of accounts for a user is unlimited.
Viewneo
Viewneo is a digital signage software used by more than 150 countries around the world. It meets the needs of small businesses as well as multinationals. Available on the Cloud, it allows media content to be broadcast on tablets, projection walls or screens. Thus, all media content is centralized in the Cloud.
New users have a 30-day trial period to create their account and benefit from the benefits. File conversion (automatic), a playlist manager, a live tracker, etc. are some of the services available.
Screensoft
Screensoft digital signage software simplifies the creation, planning, and delivery of messages on screens. Media content is distributed centrally. Its ultra-ergonomic interface makes it easier to control the display of digital screens.
This software solution is available in two forms: License and SaaS (Software as a Service). Regardless of the hosting mode selected, it is not necessary to install the application on a computer workstation. Indeed, Screensoft is a full web application.
Free digital signage solutions
Screenhub
ScreenHub is a SaaS software that manages the content of different types of screens, such as LEDs, LCD, etc. One of its main functionalities is to control, create, change any digital display from anywhere. It also allows you to plan the distribution of all types of content on different screens.
Intuitive, this cloud-based billboard software simplifies the integration of networks on up to 1,000 screens. Its real plus is its ability to adapt to all formats and sizes of screens (exterior and interior). It is also suitable for various operating systems (Mac Os, Windows, etc.).
Concerto
Concerto is an open source digital signage software. A server (with database) and Ruby on Rails applications (ROR) are required to make it work. It is compatible with operating systems, such as Mac OS and Windows. This software with dual functionality (Signage-studio and Signage-player) is capable of planning the distribution of content on several screens. To use the free version, you must have a minimum storage capacity of 1GB.
The operation of this software requires the presence of a web server and a MySQL database. In other words, to install it, you must have a device (physical or virtual) or create a virtual image. It is easy to use. Simply create a new feed, by clicking on “Browse”, then add content by going to “Add”.
Digital Signage
Digital Signage is a dynamic signage software from California. It allows messages to be broadcast on a screen in a point of sale, a business, a school, etc.
The SignageStudio allows you to create dynamic content thanks to the drag-and-drop function. The SignagePlayer facilitates the control and transmission of messages on an audiovisual medium. You need at least 1 GB of storage (in SaaS mode) to use the free version.
In addition, Digital Signage is based on an open-source framework, that is to say that can be used or modified by anyone. Web standards, such as HD videos, live TV, etc. are generally broadcast there.
The various uses of digital signage
The applications of digital signage are multiple and adapted to different contexts, depending on the nature of the screen, the place of installation and the profile of the audience. There are three main categories:
Point of Sale (POS) digital signage: focuses on the promotion of products or services at the point of sale, aiming to boost sales and build customer loyalty. Cenareo is particularly efficient in this field thanks to its ability to contextualize messages according to traffic, weather and sales data in real time.
Point of Wait (POW) digital signage: is intended for the waiting area, where the objective is to entertain, inform or guide visitors, thus reducing the perceived waiting time and increasing customer satisfaction.
Point of Transit (POT) digital signage: targets high-traffic areas, with the aim of capturing the attention of passers-by, improving brand image and stimulating traffic to a specific location.
Cenareo is perfectly suited to these three uses and offers specific solutions for:
- Retail: to boost in-store customer engagement and encourage sales through varied and engaging displays.
- Internal corporate communication: to manage internal communications within offices and facilitate communication between departments or between several sites.
- Hotels and restaurants: to display menus, promote special offers, and create an immersive ambiance.
- The DOOH (Digital Out Of Home): for advertising agencies and outdoor communication with contextualization and intelligent programming.
The importance of a consistent advertising strategy
To succeed in a digital signage campaign, the possession of advanced software, players and screens is only the beginning. It is crucial to put in place a coherent advertising strategy that takes into account the following elements:
The message: must be clear, relevant and adapted to the context, the objectives and the target audience. With Cenareo, the intelligent programming algorithm ensures that the right message is delivered at the right time.
The content: must be captivating, interesting and diverse, using multimedia formats appropriate to the broadcast environment. Cenareo offers customizable templates and an integrated video creation studio to facilitate the creation of impacting content.
Dissemination: must be finely tuned, choosing the best timing, the right frequency and the appropriate duration for the presentation of the content on the screens. Cenareo's contextualization technology automatically optimizes these parameters based on environmental and audience data.
Essential characteristics of a good digital signage software
Hardware compatibility and integration
Good digital signage software is distinguished by its compatibility with major multimedia formats like 4K video and HTML5, as well as the ability to broadcast live content. Seamless integration with various types of screens and players is crucial.
Cenareo excels in this field with its universal compatibility. The solution works with all types of screens via its HDMI player, and is also natively integrated into some ranges of Samsung Tizen, Sharp, Philips and Android screens. Cenareo also supports iOS and Android applications available on stores.
Ease of use and intuitive interface
Simplicity is essential, so opt for software that offers an intuitive and ergonomic interface. Creating, managing, and distributing content should be easily achievable with tools such as drag and drop and preview.
Cenareo is recognized as “the simplest digital signage solution in the world”. Its ergonomic and intuitive interface allows rapid internal adoption, especially for local field teams. Users regularly testify to the ease of use of the platform: “It was a Mac-like installation:)”
Customization and programming options
For effective communication, it is imperative that the software allows in-depth personalization of content. These should be dynamic, interactive, and able to adjust based on pre-established data, context, and triggers.
This is where Cenareo really stands out with its intelligent content programming. The integrated algorithm manages content dynamically and independently, taking into account numerous criteria: time of day, weather, peak periods, stock levels, audience criteria, etc. This contextual approach makes it possible to create an infinite variety of communication scenarios, with impactful messages and perfectly adapted to their broadcast context.
System security and stability
High-quality digital signage software should promise impeccable security and stability. Protecting content and data against illegitimate intrusion, viruses, or hacking attempts is essential.
Cenareo meets these requirements by hosting its solution on Microsoft Azure servers, known for their security and reliability. The partnership with Microsoft and the “Co-Sell Ready” status attest to the security level of the solution.
In addition, the Cenareo player guarantees continuous streaming, even in the event of a loss of connection, thus eliminating the recurring problem of black screens. Proactive supervision with an automatic alert system makes it possible to quickly detect and resolve any malfunction.
Scalability and expansion options
Scalability is a major asset for quality digital signage software. This characteristic means that the software should be able to grow with your business, adapting effortlessly to the expansion of your display network.
Cenareo is designed for large-scale installations. The solution now manages more than 20,000 screens in 32 countries and makes it possible to control from a few screens to several thousand without degrading performance. The SaaS model makes it easy to add new screens without additional hardware investments.
The platform also offers numerous integration options with third-party applications (Digital Workplace, business tools, data flows) and regular automatic updates.
Technical support and customer service
High-performance digital signage software must also be accompanied by impeccable technical support and customer service. It is crucial to have effective support to solve any problem or answer your questions.
Cenareo is distinguished by its expert support throughout the project. The team of more than 40 employees spread over 5 cities supports you from project detection to rapid deployment, including empowerment and daily support.
Proactive 24/7 supervision makes it possible to detect and resolve incidents before they impact your communication. In the event of a major incident, a standard player exchange is included in the subscription. Users highlight the responsiveness of the support: “Problem resolution in 24 hours on average”.
Evaluate digital signage solutions on the market
Free vs paid software: advantages and limitations
The market offers a variety of digital signage software, some free and some paid. Free software is highly accessible, requiring no purchase or subscription fees, and is often sufficient for simple or occasional projects. However, they have their limitations: they offer less customization, security measures, technical support, and regular updates.
On the other hand, paid software like Cenareo is recognized for its robustness and extended functionalities, making them ideal for more ambitious or long-term projects, requiring more flexibility and professional support.
The advantage of Cenareo's SaaS model is that it allows total control of the budget with one annual subscription per connected screen, while benefiting from maintenance, automatic updates and the replacement of the faulty hardware included in the subscription.
According to Boulanger's testimony, the switch to Cenareo made it possible to reduce the total cost of ownership of digital signage by 30% thanks to ultra-simplified installation and reactive remote maintenance.
Case studies and user feedback
To properly judge digital signage solutions, it is a good idea to get information through case studies and user feedback.
Cenareo benefits from very positive feedback from its customers:
“Cenareo is clearly the simplest solution in the world in the field of digital signage. The SaaS solution made it very easy for our marketing team to set up and use.”
“The Cenareo solution allows me to manage all photos/video broadcasts on the screens of our dealer network from the headquarters, by always having up-to-date content, by adapting the content according to geographical areas and weather conditions. It is a very simple and quick tool to use.”
“We equipped around 100 stores with 2 screens per site and I was surprised that there were no technical problems. It was a Mac-like installation:)”
“The black screens are reduced by 50% compared to the old player. Problem resolution in 24 hours on average.”
These testimonies illustrate the real application of the solution in various professional contexts and confirm the concrete benefits of Cenareo: ease of use, reliability, proactive maintenance and rapid ROI.
Testing demo offers and consulting experts
It's also wise to experiment with the available demos and consult experts before making a choice. Demo offers allow you to explore in depth the interfaces, functionalities and performances of possible solutions.
Cenareo offers personalized demonstrations of its solution. The team of experts is at your disposal to discuss your challenges and your strategic goals in the short and long term. This consultative approach ensures that the solution perfectly meets your specific needs.
Cenareo's expert support does not end with the demonstration. The team supports you throughout the deployment with online installation and verification tools, an online fleet audit by Cenareo, and real-time access to data to monitor the fleet installation.
Total cost of ownership and expected ROI
Analyzing the total cost of ownership and the expected return on investment (ROI) is crucial in evaluating digital signage solutions. The total cost includes all financial aspects related to the solution, from the purchase price to maintenance, installation and electrical consumption. ROI, on the other hand, is measured through various indicators such as increasing sales, improving customer satisfaction or strengthening brand image.
Cenareo is distinguished by a transparent economic model in SaaS mode with annual subscription per connected screen. This business model guarantees total control of the budget and avoids major initial investments.
The “as-a-service” model offers the advantage that the partner is required to keep the system up and running. In the event of an incident, Cenareo can intervene remotely or replace the faulty player free of charge.
This approach has appealed to many customers. Boulanger testifies: “Cenareo's SaaS offer is a real paradigm shift for us. Having an easy to manage subscription system that integrates ultra-simplified installation and responsive remote maintenance has reduced our costs by 30% compared to the previous software offering used.”
In addition, Cenareo players have a very low energy consumption (around 3.5W in conventional use), which is 10 times less than conventional players, which significantly reduces operating costs.
Cenareo also offers integrated performance indicators to measure and optimize ROI: media attractiveness, content freshness, contextualization of campaigns. These metrics allow you to continuously improve the effectiveness of your digital signage strategy.
Conclusion
Choosing a digital signage software is a strategic decision that directly impacts the effectiveness of your visual communication. While free solutions may be suitable for simple or occasional projects, companies looking for performance and reliability are turning to professional solutions like Cenareo.
Founded in 2012 and recognized as the simplest digital signage solution in the world, Cenareo has established itself as the French leader in the sector. With more than 20,000 screens managed in 32 countries and more than 500 prestigious customers, Cenareo offers a complete SaaS solution that combines ease of use, intelligent programming, reliability and expert support.
Cenareo's unique contextualization technology, its revolutionary plug and play player guaranteeing zero black screens, and its transparent business model make this solution the ideal choice for businesses looking to transform their visual communication while optimizing their ROI.
To find out how Cenareo can transform your digital signage strategy, contact the team of experts now for a personalized demonstration of the solution.
