Coming up with new and creative ways to get government communications out can be a challenge. Messages are often complex or detailed and need to reach a large cross-section of the community. There’s also a strong legacy of using traditional approaches and channels, particularly within offices and shopfronts.
But the increasing prevalence of government digital signage is really changing the game. These displays are dynamic and engaging and can be used for a range of messages. They are also quick and easy to update, making them more affordable to maintain than most other traditional channels.
Here we look at why digital signage works so well for government departments. We explore the different ways the technology is used and the benefits it can provide. We also go over how it can help keep departmental staff updated and engaged.
The Benefits of Government Digital Signage
When used well, a digital display can provide a number of important benefits. Most significantly, it can engage visitors to a department’s or agency’s office, providing them with promotional or educational information. And, as the display is dynamic, it’s suitable for a range of different content formats, including animation and video.
Digital displays can also be updated quickly and easily, minimising the risk of spreading out of date information. They can even be set up to share data and statistics, almost in real time. This makes them a great option for publicising urgent or time sensitive announcements.
And, as content can be managed centrally, there is less risk of variation between sites. Updates can be scheduled ahead of time and rolled out concurrently across all relevant screens. This reduces the requirement for individual resources in each office to be responsible for updating displays.
All of this means that government digital signage is generally more cost-effective, particularly when compared to more traditional communication methods. Once installed, it can be used to display a wide range of material, and updates are basically free. By contrast, physical posters and brochures need reprinting every time changes are made, the cost of which quickly adds up.
How Government Agencies Are Using Digital Signage
Digital displays can take many forms and serve many purposes. Some of the most popular applications of government digital signage in Australia include:
Self-Service and Self-Check-In
Streamlining operations and in person interactions is a key focus for many departments. Digital displays can help with this by allowing visitors to register their arrival, request services, and search for relevant information. This improves the client experience while reducing the workload of client-facing team members.
Public Wayfinding
Government offices are generally large, multifunctional facilities and visitors can find them quite intimidating and difficult to navigate. However, digital displays can be used to guide people through the building and find where they need to go. They can also be interactive, allowing visitors to search for specific people or rooms.
Public Education
Most visits to a departmental office or shopfront will involve at least some wait time. This creates a prime opportunity for government digital signage as there is effectively a captive audience for departmental messaging. This could be a major campaign, public health messaging, or even just answers to frequently asked questions.
Internal Communications
The department’s team members also need to be kept across the latest developments and updates. Digital displays can help with this, particularly when placed in breakout and high traffic areas. Here, they can be used to share information on new policies and initiatives, employee benefits, and upcoming events.
Operations Support
Command centres are a common feature for many departments, allowing their team to monitor everything from traffic flows to emergency situations. Digital displays are an important part of any good command centre, as they enable multiple team members to see data in real-time. Tech support and contact centre teams can also benefit from such screens, using them to track enquiry volumes and response times.
Digital Safety Signs
As digital displays can be updated quickly and easily, they are great for sharing emergency information. This could be extreme weather warnings, updates on security issues, or even evacuation processes. They can also be used both proactively (e.g. sharing information on safety procedures) and in the event of an incident.
Translating Messages and Materials
Engaging culturally and linguistically diverse communities is a particular challenge experienced by most government departments and agencies. However, the dynamic nature of government digital signage makes it perfect for providing information in multiple languages. As part of this, displays can be set up to allow users to select their preferred language and search for relevant information.
Want more information?
Considering adding digital displays to your department’s or agency’s communication mix? Amped Digital can help! We’re one of the leaders in government digital signage in Australia and are experts in designing truly tailored solutions. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and options.
