Design & Style

What Is a Digital Poster? 5 Benefits of Digital Posters

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Sep 9, 2022 • 3 min read

Digital posters comprise a digital image or motion graphic on a screen. Digital signage is a dynamic and eye-catching way to convey information or advertise a product or event.

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What Is a Digital Poster?

A digital poster is a sign comprising a digital image or a motion graphic on a screen. Like traditional print posters, digital posters display images or convey information to advertise products or events. Digital signs, however, can feature animated graphics and a rotation of pictures and displays. Companies can easily update digital signage, making it an effective digital marketing tool.

4 Uses of Digital Posters

Various industries use digital posters for advertising products and services and sharing information. Consider the following applications of digital posters:

  1. 1. Advertise products: Companies can create digital posters to present information about a new product, including what it is and where customers can find it. For example, film production companies promote new releases with movie posters, and pharmaceutical companies might announce new medications with digital advertisements.
  2. 2. Announce events: Brands can use digital posters to create buzz around upcoming events, including information about the date and how customers can attend or tune in.
  3. 3. Communicate ideas: Besides advertising products, digital posters can present ideas or information like public service announcements or scientific posters with graphs and infographics. Digital posters can also display maps and travel times, which is helpful for tourists and travelers in airports or train stations.
  4. 4. Publicize a business: Digital posters can advertise a business, including how it can help customers and where to find more information.

5 Benefits of Digital Posters

There are several advantages of using digital posters, including customization options and eco-friendliness. Consider the following benefits:

  1. 1. Appeal: Digital posters are appealing because they are backlit. Posters with motion graphics are particularly eye-catching for today’s digitally native audience.
  2. 2. Cost-efficiency: Digital posters may have a higher upfront cost than traditional posters, but they can save companies money in the long run. Digital posters are easily changeable with a click of a button, so if companies need to update information, they do not have to print a new sign.
  3. 3. Dynamic: Digital posters can feature dynamic content. You can program a digital poster, like a slideshow, with transitions to switch between different information pages. You can also include movement and animation in the poster, such as gifs and motion graphics.
  4. 4. Functionality: The poster content is easily customizable. Unlike static posters, multimedia posters offer more functionality with engaging graphics. The ability to share information with rotating displays helps to prevent cognitive overload.
  5. 5. Green: Digital posters have a better environmental footprint than print posters because you do not need to use paper.

How to Make a Digital Poster

To make a digital poster, you will need graphic design software, hardware (a display screen), and connectivity (like Wi-Fi or an HDMI cable). Follow these steps to learn how to make a poster:

  1. 1. Choose design software. The software you use depends on the features you plan to include in your poster design. Infographics and animation require specialized programs.
  2. 2. Build off a poster template. A template can be a great starting point for your design. Many design software programs offer poster templates and premade poster designs.
  3. 3. Follow basic design principles. When designing your poster, adhere to the elements of design. You can use a color scheme, typefaces, and negative space to create appealing, design-forward posters. You might choose to focus on an image or use large, bold-faced text to center the poster.

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