March 10, 2022 - With March Madness at the forefront of sports fans' radars, the Peerless-AV team certainly has digital signage at top of mind. In many ways, digital signage serves as a solution for venue planners and developers, offering entertainment value that keeps seats filled and sports fans engaged – From scoreboards, to wayfinding, advertising, even content sharing on jumbotrons. As display technology continues to evolve, we wanted to share some of the biggest digital signage trends in sports stadiums and bars. Read on for more!

Wayfinding, Crowd Control, And Live Content

Within the past year, we've seen an increase in attendees at sporting events and bars. While many stadiums have adopted digital signage for wayfinding, there are new opportunities to make this more valuable. When integrated with content that can be updated in real-time, stadiums can have even more control over crowds and their needs. For example, digital signage can be updated in real time to communicate restroom locations and wait times, concession stand wait times, the least-congested exit path, seat availability, and more. All these things make getting where you need to more efficient. It also helps alleviate any worries about social distancing, providing alternative routes.

Active Interaction

A huge trend that integrators are starting to see more of is a shift from signage as a passive medium, that spectators consume visually, to an interactive medium that invites participation from sports fans. On a smaller scale, this might look like touchscreen kiosks at sports bars to place food and beverage orders. On the stadium side, fans could be presented with options to view the game from various angles as if they were seated in another section of the stadium altogether. A great example of engagement-based signage is the Dallas Cowboys' use of interactive photo kiosks. Spectators can take virtual selfies with their favorite players and level up their experience beyond their set.

Social Media

It's common to see VIP fans enjoying direct activities and higher engagements. However, the remaining fans and spectators can interact with the digital displays and billboards in venues and stadiums via social media. Organizers can display user-generated content such as Instagram comments, tweets, and posts from fans to build interesting conversations amongst audiences. Without the use of digital signage, fans might be inclined to watch from the comfort of their homes. So, make them feel like they're a part of the experience on the big screen! In the case of restaurants or bars, a video wall or kiosk to display this content would be a great way to increase engagement in smaller settings.

The world of sporting events looks much different now, but there are many opportunities to make fan experiences even better. By using digital signage to manage crowds, simplify food and beverage ordering, and create immersive moments, sports fans will be elated to be watching from the stadium – or the bar!