News

Digital signage firm FWi joins Gaming Standards Association

September 21, 2012

Four Winds Interactive announced that it has joined the Gaming Standards Association, and will implement the GSA System-to-System protocol to standardize messaging between gaming, non-gaming and digital signage display systems for its casino-operating clients.

FWi, which is active in providing digital communications solutions for the gaming industry, said it is "the first digital communications company" to join the GSA.

"A lack of interoperability between multiple, diverse systems in gaming resorts has restricted innovation," said FWi President and CEO David Levin, in the announcement. "We are committed to taking a leadership position in bringing digital communications solutions to the gaming industry and have joined GSA as a testament to that commitment. We believe in the purpose of the GSA and have invested in that belief."

GSA is an international trade association that creates benefits for gaming manufacturers, suppliers, operators and regulators. The GSA facilitates the identification, definition, development, promotion and implementation of open standards to enable innovation, education and communication for the benefit of the entire industry, according to the announcement.

GSA protocols, standards and certifications are available only to GSA members. The S2S protocol is a system-to-system protocol adopted as GSA's standard for messaging between gaming host and non-gaming host systems.

For example, Levin said, the S2S protocol can be used to promote progressive jackpots throughout the casino/hotel. Another example Levin offered is integration between self-service digital concierge kiosks, Player's Clubs and Lodging Management systems. Players can review their loyalty points for possible comps, examine their lodging folio and see special offers from restaurants and spas on property — all from the casino floor or any other location in the resort.

Read more about digital signage in entertainment venues.