Why Digital Signs Are a Smart to Have for Any Building

At Metro Signs & Lighting, we’ve seen firsthand how digital signs have changed the way businesses and organizations communicate. Whether you’re managing a storefront, a school, a healthcare facility, or a public space, digital signage allows you to share timely, relevant messages with clarity and ease.

Unlike traditional signs that require physical updates, digital signs let you change content as often as needed—without reprinting or reinstalling. That flexibility makes them an efficient tool for communication, branding, and public engagement.

What Are Digital Signs?

Digital signs are electronic displays used to communicate information visually. These signs can be LED boards outside a school, flat-panel monitors inside a lobby, or any screen that shows rotating messages, videos, or images.

Our team installs digital signs for a wide range of applications—from directional signage in office buildings to event announcements for schools. We design each system to fit the location, content needs, and visibility requirements of the client.

Each system typically includes a screen, a media player or software platform, and a secure power and data connection. Together, they allow for real-time content control without physical maintenance.

Why Businesses and Organizations Use Digital Signs

Digital signage stands out because it’s flexible and attention-grabbing. For high-traffic locations or places that need to share updates quickly, it’s far more practical than static signage.

Many of our clients choose digital signs to:

• Display announcements, menus, or schedules
• Promote sales or special events
• Guide visitors through large spaces
• Reinforce brand identity with dynamic visuals
• Replace paper signs and reduce ongoing print costs

Because the content can be changed instantly, you can keep messages current, targeted, and aligned with what your audience needs to know—whether that’s daily hours, emergency alerts, or reminders about upcoming events.

Who Benefits from Digital Signage

We’ve worked with a variety of industries and public institutions that rely on digital signage to support their operations and communication.

Retail businesses use digital signs to highlight in-store promotions, new arrivals, or real-time updates. Exterior displays help draw in traffic, while interior screens improve customer navigation and product visibility.

Schools and universities use digital signs to share announcements, promote student events, or welcome guests. When located near entry points or along campus walkways, these signs become part of the school’s public presence and identity.

Corporate offices use lobby displays to recognize employees, announce internal events, and share important updates. Digital signage also improves wayfinding in larger facilities.

Medical clinics and hospitals use digital signs to guide patients, reduce wait-time confusion, and communicate health information. These systems help staff manage traffic flow and reduce printed notices.

Government buildings and community centers benefit from digital signage for announcements, public service messages, and directional signage—especially in areas with fluctuating schedules or high visitor volume.

Our Recent Project: Digital Sign Upgrade for a Michigan School

One of our recent projects involved working with Southgate Community Schools at Fordline Elementary in Metro Detroit. We shared the installation on LinkedIn, where we highlighted how digital signage can support both communication and school identity.

The project included a new monument sign with a full-color electronic display, installed at the school’s main entrance. This upgrade didn’t just modernize the look of the campus—it gave the school a dynamic, flexible platform to:

• Share daily messages and event notices
• Welcome students and families
• Communicate during schedule changes or emergencies
• Celebrate achievements and build school pride
• Strengthen connections with the local community

Investments in high-quality signage can have a big impact on how schools engage with families and neighbors. In this case, Fordline Elementary’s new sign provides a clear, visible way to stay connected and support a stronger sense of community.

What made this project successful was the school’s ability to manage content independently through an easy-to-use digital platform. They can update messages as needed—without waiting on reprints or manual replacements.

This installation reflects how digital signs can serve multiple roles: as communication tools, as branding assets, and as symbols of connection between schools and their communities.

What to Consider Before Installing a Digital Sign

If you’re exploring digital signage, there are several things to think through:

Location

Outdoor signs need weather resistance and higher brightness to remain visible in daylight. Indoor signs, while more flexible, still need to be placed in high-traffic areas for best results.

Screen Size and Visibility

Think about how far away people will be when reading the sign. Larger signs with high resolution are better for outdoor or street-level views. Smaller signs can work in hallways or lobbies.

Power and Connectivity

All digital signs require access to electricity and usually a network connection. Some systems are wireless, while others use hardwired internet or internal content players.

Content Management

We recommend platforms that let you schedule, rotate, and update content remotely. Easy-to-use systems allow your staff to make updates without IT support.

How Digital Signs Compare to Traditional Signs

We often speak with clients who are deciding between a traditional sign and a digital display. While the upfront investment for digital signs is usually higher, the long-term flexibility is hard to beat.

A printed banner or vinyl sign is fixed—you can’t change it without reprinting. Digital signs, on the other hand, can display multiple messages in one space and adapt to changing needs. That saves both time and resources in the long run.

Best Practices for Using Digital Signs

Here are some tips for making the most of your display:

• Use short, clear messages. Digital signs are best at delivering quick, scannable information.
• Schedule your content. Rotate messages based on time of day, season, or events.
• Prioritize contrast. High-contrast visuals are easier to read, especially outdoors.
• Keep it relevant. Update the sign regularly so it stays useful and interesting to viewers.
• Don’t overload the screen. Leave enough time between messages so viewers can absorb each one.

Start Your Digital Sign Project

Digital signs offer a practical, flexible way to share information and build visibility across any type of building. Whether you’re managing a school, business, or public facility, they provide a clear advantage in keeping your audience informed.

At Metro Signs & Lighting, we’ve helped organizations across Michigan plan and install digital signs that meet their communication needs. If you’re exploring options for your space, get in touch with us to start the conversation.

FAQs

What is a digital sign and how does it work?

A digital sign is an electronic display that shows content like text, images, or video. It can be updated remotely using a content management system.

How much does a digital sign cost?

Costs vary based on size, type, and installation needs. Smaller indoor signs may start around $2,000, while large outdoor displays can exceed $10,000.

Are digital signs good for schools or public buildings?

Yes, digital signs are ideal for sharing announcements, schedules, and alerts in real time—making them useful for schools, libraries, and government facilities.