Frequently Asked Questions
Digital Signage FAQ's
We have the Answers!
- How is Four Winds Interactive different from other digital signage software companies?
- Is the FWi software package only for large digital signage projects?
- What is digital signage?
- What content types does the software support?
- Does the software support PowerPoint?
- Where will your content come from?
- Do you need a network or Internet connection? What about wireless internet?
- How do you update your screens? Can it be done remotely?
- Do you need special equipment to show Live TV on your digital signage network?
- Do we have to buy certain hardware?
- How long will it take to get my system up and running?
- Will I need to hire and train someone new to manage my network?
- How much does it cost?
How is Four Winds Interactive different from other digital signage software companies?
The Four Winds Interactive software solution is more powerful and easier to use than any other digital signage system on the market. With advanced features built into the system including data integration, wayfinding, and interactivity, we've consistently beat out the competition based on our out of the box features and functionality.
Top ^Is the FWi software package only for large digital signage projects?
No, the FWi digital signage software package can scale from one sign to thousands of signs. Out of the box, the system includes all of the same features and functionality whether you're using it for one sign or 1,000 signs.
Top ^What is digital signage?
Digital signage delivers relevant, useful information in a format users find attractive and enticing. Displaying custom content that communicates your message easier and more effectively, digital signage increases visitor interaction and ultimately boosts customer retention and ROI. Typically displayed on large-format flat screen TVs, digital signage has become the preferred way of dynamic communication.
Top ^What content types does the software support?
- Media Files - .avi, .mov, .wmv, MPEG2, MPEG4, Flash
- Images - .bmp, .png, .jpeg, .gif
- Microsoft PowerPoint - 2003, 2007
- Microsoft Word - 2003, 2007
- Streaming Video
- Web Content
- External Video/Cable - TV tuner card/device required
- Live Data from External Source - Delphi, Daylight, Opera, SalesPro, CollegeNet 25, EMS, Excel, RSS, XML, CSV
- Date & Time
- Text Files
- Live Weather
- Wayfinding
- Microsoft Virtual Earth
Does the software support PowerPoint?
Yes, the iDS software package supports PowerPoint in its native format, so there's no need to convert your slide show into a flash presentation or images.
Where will your content come from?
Your content will come from existing assets that you already have on your network currently. Images, video, flash, web content, and PowerPoint are all examples of content types that our software package supports. If you want new content created, like a Flash advertisement or a custom facility map, we have an in-house creative team that will work with you to reach your content goals.
Top ^Do you need a network or Internet connection? What about wireless internet?
If you want to run your digital signage system over your own network then you will need to connect it to your in-house network. Additionally, if you are interested in integrating your digital signage with you event management system, you'll need to do this via a network connection.You will only need an Internet connection if you want to play content that requires Internet access. Examples of content that require Internet access include, weather, news feeds, and Microsoft Virtual Earth.
Top ^How do you update your screens? Can it be done remotely?
Updating your screens is as easy as logging into your Content Manager, updating the specific regions or templates that you're interested in updating and hitting deploy. If you are off-site and need to make a change, we have functionality that allows for remote updates.
Top ^Do you need special equipment to show Live TV on your digital signage network?
In order to show live TV on your digital signage network, you'll need a TV Tuner card for each player PC that will be playing the Live TV.
Top ^Do we have to buy certain hardware?
FWi does not require that you purchase any proprietary hardware. We can use hardware that you already have or if needed, we can help you get the hardware for your project. We have excellent partnerships with numerous display and computer companies to get you the hardware that your project requires.
Top ^How long will it take to get my system up and running?
Depending on the magnitude of your project, it could take anywhere from a couple of weeks for a software only installation to a couple months for a full-service project.
Top ^Will I need to hire and train someone new to manage my network?
No, hiring someone new is not necessary. The FWi digital signage software package is easy to use and intuitive. The majority of our clients have us train a few of their current employees to run the system. The training only takes a couple of hours. We also offer ongoing support for your continuing needs.
Top ^How much does it cost?
We recommend that you contact us for a customized quote today. Cost is going to vary depending on how many player licenses you purchase and the addition of any services in which you are interested. However, all of the capabilities of the software are included with every purchase.
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