In its simplest form, a digital signage system can load pre-designed content onto a screen. To really benefit from the technology’s capabilities, however, the screen should be connected to a remote management system via the Internet.

The electronic message centre (EMC) occupies a somewhat contradictory position within the sign industry. The concept of a changeable sign with some electric components has been around for about 80 years now, yet it may also seem to many sign shops like outdoor electronic displays are a new, untested technology.