Every campus should have a competent communication strategy and for forward thinking institutions should acknowledge the value of digital signage for education.
There are multiple benefits to the installation of digital signs. Sharing information is often a challenge to the smallest or largest institutions particularly in the area of campus security and safety.
The installation of digital signs enables much more streamlined and effective emergency communication. Digital signage is so sophisticated that it can be just one aspect of digitalization in any educational institution.
Real-Time Emergency Alerts and Notifications
One of the most beneficial ways digital signage in education is necessary is to broadcast emergency alerts in real time. Emergencies, which might be a natural disaster, a threat to school safety, or another urgent situation, can be shared instantly. The result is staff and students who are informed and prepared for action.
With modern technological advances in security alarms driven by digitalization, emergency messages may include important details, like evacuation routes, instructions to shelter in place, or real-time updates. Because digital signage is flexible and fast, it’s a useful way to update emergency messages as the situation changes.
Digital signs can also work with any external emergency systems, like those used by local police. This is a simple way to enhance information delivery. Keeping a campus safe is much easier to do with digital signs for emergencies.
Visual Wayfinding and Safety Reminders
It is not uncommon to see guests and newcomers getting lost on large campuses and digital signage solves this exact problem – it mitigates the stress by displaying maps and directions. Multiple tools, like maps and directions, mitigate the stress by directing people to where they need to go, whether it is a classroom, a gym or an auditorium. Digital signs are also useful for showing the safest path during an evacuation or other emergency.
The signs also display safety reminders. This might include:
- reminding people to wash their hands during illness outbreaks
- giving directions for fire drills
- identification of parts of the campus or building that are not accessible
- emergency evacuation routes and info
and anything else requiring security intervention. These helpful digital alerts can be updated and modified in real time, and as needed.
Enhanced Accessibility for All Audiences
What is the measurement of effective communication? The answer is simple: it reaches the people that matter, including those on campus with a disability or who don’t speak the primary language. Digital signs are very easy to customize. The messages can be changed at anytime and be updated with language translations, closed captioning and text to speech. This ensures clear communication to everyone on campus in the case of an emergency.
Audio cues can also be added to ensure that individuals with visual impairments are also aware of any emergency instructions. Such an inclusive communication ensures a safe campus for all.
Integration with Social Media and Mobile Apps
Integrating digital signage with social media and other apps provides necessary information to anyone who isn’t near a sign. Emergency messages can be pushed through these apps, so everyone is aware of the situation. These real time alerts can be seen anywhere, making it easy to share emergency details, keeping everyone safe.
Reducing Misinformation During Emergencies
Rumors tend to run rampant during an emergency. Digital signs are there to give accurate and reliable emergency information. Not only does this dispel rumors, but it also reduces panic and ensures that all staff and students know what’s going on. When digital signs are the reliable method for emergency communication, everyone knows where to look for correct information.
Creating a Culture of Preparedness with Digital Signage for Education
Not only can emergency messages keep everyone safe, but it also encourages preparedness. Regular displays of safety protocol, scheduled drills, and emergency contacts make safety a priority. This leads to a feeling of being prepared among students, parents and staff.
Conclusion
Safety is a primary concern in every school and digital signage for education can help. Digital signs are a quick and effective way to share emergency updates and safety information. They are easy to modify and are engaging, so staff and students can stay safe by providing everyone the information they need.
