Areas across the University that are considering using digital signage now have the opportunity to use a system that not only provides better communication, but also may come with a lower price tag.
Penn State recently secured a license agreement with Four Winds Interactive, a digital signage software and services firm, to provide comprehensive low-cost digital signage software to the University. Digital signage software is an in-house medium used to manage information, including news and messaging, which is then made available for public viewing on electronic displays in buildings and classrooms throughout the University. The software also makes it possible for offices to display critical emergency messages in collaboration with the University's central news services such as PSUTXT.
According to Janda Hankinson, director of entrepreneurial services, Penn State departments, colleges and campuses will benefit collectively from significant cost-savings available through the new digital signage service. Due to low buy-in and maintenance costs, customers can save thousands of dollars by purchasing the software through the Computer Store's licensing division, compared with buying a package from a separate provider.
The Four Winds Interactive software license was acquired by the University to promote collaboration and standardization of electronic signage across Penn State. In addition, the enterprise-level package makes numerous features available to users including digital signage software, online and in-person training, custom Penn State templates, hardware recommendations, maintenance, and supplementary service resources. Four Winds Interactive also provides multiple on-screen options, including interactive touch screens capable of broadcasting video and television. Areas interested in digital signage are urged to take advantage of this new arrangement, since the use of digital signage may become a key component in emergency notifications across campus.
"A unified Penn State digital signage system will allow for increased transmission of University-wide messaging, news and information sharing," Hankinson explains. "Simultaneously, we have the added capability to transmit immediate central emergency notification, across all Penn State departments, colleges and campuses that implement the service. This will allow for better information flow during a crisis and the ability to target various areas or buildings with needed information.”
In addition, this newly acquired display software enables offices to enhance their green efforts by using less paper and reducing energy. Many clients have found they can use digital signs to boost office sustainability, by eliminating the high cost of creating and distributing print flyers and posters, while at the same time attracting higher levels of audience attention and engagement.
Penn State Four Winds Interactive digital signage software license may be purchased at the Computer Store's website, at http://computerstore.psu.edu online. For details on how to get started and upcoming training sessions, visit http://its.psu.edu/digital-signage online.