While much attention is given to planning and installation in digital signage projects, the long-term maintenance of these installations is often overlooked. However, as digital signage becomes more business-critical, developing future-proof operational routines and monitoring systems is becoming more important.

This is why remote monitoring and control, also known as remote device management (RDM), can no longer be ignored when considering which software to use.

In addition to managing and playing out content, remote device management can be seen as one of the three basic functions of digital signage software

Most digital signage CMS solutions offer basic monitoring features. These include:

• Online/offline status
• Heartbeats and system errors
• Storage space information
• Device location/IP address
• Display orientation

Complex networks require dedicated RDM solutions

Large and especially mission-critical digital signage networks require a dedicated RDM solution that offers far more monitoring and remote control functions.

The main reasons for using RDM solutions are:

• System stability and high uptime, for example with ‘auto-healing’ functions, especially for business-critical networks
• Reduction of service costs as any fault that can be resolved remotely saves expensive on-site services
• Sustainability, basically energy management of the player and screen, plus software and operating system updates for a longer service life of installations

Data needs to be used

However, the best RDM solution is of no use without appropriate business processes. It is not sufficient to just collect the information about the system; actions must be defined and executed. For large networks, dedicated Network Operation Centres (NOC) take over this role. Large integrators, especially IT integrators, combine the management of different customers’ networks in one place in order to realise the 24/7 operation of a NOC in a cost-effective manner.

Display manufacturers have also recognised the need for RDM solutions and have developed powerful platforms such as PPDS Wave and Samsung’s VXT. These subscription-based platforms represent a significant step forward compared to previous attempts by hardware suppliers.

This article was originally published on https://invidis.com/ and is republished here with permission. (Picture: AI/Adobe Firefly)

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