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How digital signage sparks spontaneous experiences in leisure and travel

David Levin, CEO at Poppulo, makes a passionate case for the power of digital signage in facillitating spontaneous experiences in hospitality and travel, using industry expertise and a personal story of how the technology helped create an unforgettable experience at an unplanned live concert with The Police.

Image provided by Adobe Stock.

June 26, 2023 by David Levin — Chief Executive Officer, Poppulo

In a world of carefully curated itineraries and meticulously planned trips, the allure of spontaneity often takes a backseat. However, in the realm of hospitality, where leisure travel is experiencing a resurgence, embracing the unexpected can transform a mere vacation into an extraordinary adventure. This is where digital signage emerges as a powerful catalyst, igniting the flame of spontaneous experiences and rekindling the joy of living in the moment.

The pandemic and the weight of overscheduling have diminished our appetite for impromptu endeavors. With people seeking new experiences and adventures, hotels and venues have an extraordinary chance to leverage digital signage to facilitate and inspire spontaneous moments of joy and discovery. By strategically coordinating messages and their placement, digital signage becomes a powerful tool for driving desired behaviors, engaging guests, and optimizing revenue streams.

The role of digital signage in facilitating spontaneous experiences

Amidst the chaos of our modern lives, spontaneity has become a rare and precious commodity. The pandemic—with its restrictions and uncertainties—along with our perpetually over-scheduled existence, have stifled our ability to embrace the unexpected.

With its ability to provide up-to-the-minute updates, digital signage empowers travelers to seize the moment. Whether it's stumbling upon an ad for a charming local restaurant, a rejuvenating spa experience, or an exhilarating concert or event, these glimpses captured on digital signs plant seeds of curiosity and inspire us to explore uncharted territories.

In 2007, I stayed at a hotel where The Police were playing. I saw the ad on a digital sign, called my brother, and the next night, we were singing "Every Breath You Take" with 20,000 of our new best friends. Without a digital sign, I wouldn't have known they were touring, and I wouldn't have had the opportunity to relive my 80s with my brother. Digital signage offers a gateway to the unexpected, inviting us to deviate from our carefully curated itineraries and indulge in impulsive delights.

The impact of digital signage extends beyond our personal experiences; it reverberates throughout the hospitality industry, driving revenue and enhancing the guest experience. By leveraging a central platform, digital signage allows every department, from marketing to food and beverage to spa, to disseminate their offerings effectively. It harmonizes the messaging, creating a cohesive, immersive guest experience.

Driving revenue

One of the most compelling benefits of digital signage in the hospitality industry is its ability to drive revenue. Hotels can generate increased awareness and interest in their amenities, services, and partner offerings by strategically placing digital signs in high-traffic areas. The digital signage system can dynamically adapt content based on real-time data, displaying relevant promotions, discounts, and upsell opportunities. This personalized approach enhances the guest experience while maximizing revenue potential.

Leveraging multiple content channels

Digital signage seamlessly integrates with other channels to amplify its impact. By synchronizing content across various touchpoints, including mobile apps, websites, and social media, hotels can ensure a consistent and immersive guest journey. Guests can explore offerings presented on digital signage, and then engage further through their preferred digital channels for seamless reservations or bookings. This integration of multiple channels enhances convenience, increases reach and frequency, and encourages spontaneous action.

Customized Communications for Targeted Messaging

Digital signage allows hotels and venues to tailor messages to specific audiences, ensuring the right content reaches the right people at the right time. By using location-based data and guest profiles, hotels can deliver customized promotions and recommendations that resonate with individual preferences and interests. This targeted approach enhances the overall guest experience and increases the likelihood of spontaneous engagement.

In the era of renewed leisure travel and the pursuit of meaningful experiences, digital signage serves as a powerful catalyst for igniting spontaneous moments. By capitalizing on its capabilities, hotels and venues can enhance the guest experience, drive revenue, and strengthen a sense of exploration and discovery.

As the world continues to re-embrace the joy of travel, digital signage is poised to play an increasingly pivotal role in creating extraordinary experiences. Hotels and venues can transform mere signage into dynamic storytelling opportunities, sparking spontaneous encounters that leave a lasting impression. As leisure travel rebounds, the strategic deployment of digital signage will undoubtedly position hospitality establishments at the forefront of providing unforgettable and enriching moments for their guests.

About David Levin

David Levin is the CEO of Poppulo, the leading communications and workplace experience software company. In 2005, David co-founded Four Winds Interactive (now merged into the Poppulo brand) with a vision for how digital technology would transform how businesses communicate and engage with customers and employees.

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Poppulo (formerly FWI)

Poppulo (formerly FWI) is the leading enterprise software company transforming customer and employee experiences with digital signage applications and omnichannel corporate communications. Find out why 4,500+ customers rely on Poppulo to power a variety of digital signage applications across multiple industries.

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