Unique digital signage solution
The Java Announcement Display System (JADS) stands out from other digital signage solutions because of the unique method of adding new content.
Most screens that display announcements, news and information are not kept up to date because adding new content is difficult. My research indicates that this is largely contributed by two factors.
1. Physical access to the computer connected to the screen is limited.
It is common to position a large screen in an open space where it is very difficult or inappropriate to operate a computer. Many presentation applications, for example Microsoft PowerPoint, require modification (or closing, copying and reloading) on the same machine as used for presentation. This ‘annoyance’ results in presentations becoming out of date and quick announcements not posted.
2. Adding content from other computers requires using multiple software applications.
Nearly all digital signage solutions come in two parts. Part one is an application that runs on a computer connected to the presentation screen. Part two is an application that must be installed on all computers that are to be used for adding content remotely. To add an announcement the author must load the authoring application, use it to create new content and then send the content to the presentation computer (which then displays it on the screen). Deployment of authoring applications can be difficult or impossible due to network restrictions (IT Administrator required). Another problem is that each installation of an authoring package is an additional expense. The most crucial factor resulting in this strategy being unsuccessful at keeping information up to date, however, is the perceived difficulty in using a new application.
JADS is different.
JADS solves the above problems by using a web-based user interface. The JADS software only runs on the presentation computer. To add an announcement, authors use their Internet browser on any computer. This is possible because JADS contains a webserver that acts as a bridge between the author and the presentation computer. Because there is no requirement to load unfamiliar software, authors find it quick and easy to add content to the screen. With live previewing of the presentation screen from within a web browser, authors feel comfortable adding announcements from anywhere. For example, JADS is installed in a college entrance at the University of Kent. There are a total of 10 authors, situated all over University campus who can add content to the screen remotely and know that thousands of students will see the announcement each day.
JADS includes a number of additional benefits for keeping content up to date. Firstly, items can be scheduled for display at a later date. Similarly they can be scheduled to be removed. There is also a built in timetabling system which dynamically updates each day to show current events.
JADS is in a process of continuous development and change. If you are interested in a custom JADS installation please contact:
