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Today, I want to dive into the nitty-gritty of digital sign operations. After two decades in the digital sign business, I’ve helped a wide range of clients, from large businesses to non-profits. They all want the same thing: a return on their investment.

At Next LED, we give customers essential tips to maximize their sign’s impact. Here are the five key recommendations I offer every digital sign client:

1. Less is More: Stick to 5 words or fewer. Use pictures and animation to convey your message quickly—ideally in 6 seconds or less. Avoid long sentences that shrink font size and reduce visibility.

2. Limit Messages: Display fewer than 5 messages at a time for higher impact. Rotate content frequently, or “flight” messages over days or weeks to keep things fresh.

3. Mind Your Location: While signs are built for 24/7 operation, think about your surroundings. Highways benefit from round-the-clock displays, while residential areas might appreciate a sign that goes dark at night. Energy use is minimal, but turning it off can be a neighborly gesture.

4. Keep It Fresh: Regularly update your content to stay relevant. Messages that are seasonal, personal, or funny are more likely to catch attention.

5. Think Conversational: Your audience likely passes your sign daily. Change up your messages like you would a conversation—don’t repeat the same thing over and over.

I firmly believe in the advertising power of digital signs, but success requires thoughtful operation. It’s not just about having a sign; it’s about using it strategically in your overall communication plan.

Here’s a question to consider: If you asked three strangers what they thought of your sign, what would they say?