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Digital Signage Insight: Working With Graphic Artists

Whether working with an in-house art department or an outside agency, here’s a handy checklist to make sure your digital signage content achieves what you want. Vehicle signage Sydney is the most cost effective form of advertising for any business big or small, we will wrap your vehicle with professional appearance while on site.

Digital signage is going mainstream as a medium. Simply look around in retail stores, shopping malls, arenas, gas stations, hotel lobbies, restaurants, and just about any other place you can image, and you’re bound to see one or more digital signs.

However, even though digital signs are growing in popularity, they are likely to be a rather new medium for the majority of graphic artists and other media creators, like graphic designers and animators, which you may turn to create compelling content to achieve your communications goals.

Perhaps, you will be working with in-house graphic artists whose expertise is the design of brochures, reports and other printed collateral. Or, you may find yourself working with a creative agency that specializes in television commercials. Both are creative, talented and have an abundance of knowledge and experience to bring to the table. Your challenge will be communicating the unique demands of digital signage content to them and directing them so they deliver the message you need.

Following some or all of the recommendations on this handy checklist should help you focus your creative team’s talent regardless of their prior experience, or lack of experience, in creating a digital signage portfolio.

* Clearly state what you wish to accomplish. Explain precisely how the signs are to be used. Will they be informational in nature? Do you want to sell a product or service with the signs? Is the communication mission straightforward like that of a menu board or more nuanced?

* Define your target audience. Layout as much demographic information, i.e. age, sex, ethnic background, and psychographic information, including interests, attitudes and opinions, of your intended viewers as possible.

* Identify where the sign or signs will be located. Giving your creative team this information will inform decisions they make later about the appearance, placement and dwell time of content they will create.

* Explain desired quality. In today’s world, it is hard to imagine that the display or displays to be used won’t be HDTVs. But even if that’s the case, will they be 720p, 1080i or even 1080p displays? That information will be helpful when content is created and may reduce the need for up, down or cross conversion of video, graphics and animation content.

* Visual SPAM. Because digital signage is becoming more common, the level of “visual noise” is also increasing. This should be considered along with the sensibilities of the target demographic. Work with your designers in creating a pleasing visual environment that will be more readily received by a discerning audience. Avoid excessive in-your-face content that may wax against the shopping experience by overloading the senses. Too much eye candy is not a good thing -it can give eye pain.

* Define duration. On a macro level, your messaging will be used for a finite period before it must be updated or changed entirely. On a micro level, individual pieces of content will dwell on the screen before being updated by the next item in the list. Information about both will help your team in creating content that can accomplish its communications task in the allotted time on screen as well as give the team a way to begin building a workable content production schedule.

* Discuss the number of onscreen zones desired. Start out by giving your team an idea of how many discrete areas of onscreen real estate you envision to communicate your message and what you believe should be communicated in each. Don’t consider this the last word on the topic. Rather use your list as a point of departure to discuss and ultimately define how many zones actually will be used.

* Identify existing content resources. While you will want your content to be fresh, engaging and designed to meet your communications goals, there is no sense reinventing the wheel when existing resources can be used or repurposed. For example, if you intend to communicate to owners of high performance cars as they wait in a car dealer’s service area, an existing RSS feed of Formula One, Indy Car and NASCAR race results and news might be available already for an onscreen crawl.

Whether or not your designers are experienced with digital signage, they will appreciate the guidance you give by discussing the items in the checklist. More importantly, reviewing the points in the checklist will help ensure you receive the content you need to achieve your communications goals.

David Little is a charter member of the Digital Screenmedia Association with 20 years of experience helping professionals use technology to effectively communicate. For further digital signage insight from Keywest Technology, visit our website for many helpful tips and examples. For more in-depth research from Keywest Technology, download our free digital signage white papers and case studies.

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/David_Little/58036

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Car Wash Equipment and System Strategies

With recent trends in the economy, many car wash equipment owners are focusing their efforts on cost effective ways to bring in new customers and keep existing ones. There are several different strategies that can be used when marketing or promoting a car wash business. Most owners are familiar with banners, signs, and advertising in the newspaper. But community involvement, customer appreciation, and face-to-face product education are also great ways to market. The bottom parts of your car accumulate the most dirt, so starting at the top will help to avoid dragging dirt onto other parts of your car then apply the best car wash products from detailcentral.com.au

PROMOTE YOUR CAR WASH WITH SIGNS AND BANNERS
Banners are a cost effective way to get a new message across. For example, as an owner it is your responsibility to promote the addition of a high-end wax to an in-bay automatic or triple-foam polish to the self-service bays. A 3′ x 8′ vinyl banner can cost as little as $150. Depending on the complexity of the company logo and additional graphics this cost can escalate. Sticking with something simple – for example, “Try Our New Triple-Foam Polish” – and using a three or four color scheme will cost approximately $200 per banner.

How is a banner going to increase business? A banner’s message draws attention and generates consumer interest, particularly when potential new customers pass by. If the current location they support does not have the function highlighted on the banner they will be intrigued to try it out. Positioning the banner properly is critical. Having as many potential customers that pass by view the new banner as possible is the goal.

SELF-SERVICE CAR WASH EQUIPMENT
Existing customers like to have the proper bay signage to both instruct and market the service selections. Self-service car washes should have the following signs posted in each bay.

1. The primary signage should be the instruction menus. The menu should have short descriptions of products available and how the products should be applied.

2. Secondary signs should highlight any new equipment that have been added, such as an in-bay dryer, triple-foam polish, and tire dressing. Based on the number of functions, instruction menus will range in cost from $50 to $125 per bay. Secondary signs such as triple-foam polish and tire dressing will range from $20 to $35 per sign. Keep in mind that overuse of signage in your bays can be confusing to customers.

It can be overwhelming to a customer when pulling into a bay to see the whole wall covered with different signs. Additionally, customers may not be able to recognize any changes or new products. When installing new marketing or instruction signs, evaluate the existing signs; determine the importance of each, and whether any of them could be removed. Remember, the goal is to market and promote the new functions and/or changes.

IN-BAY AUTOMATIC CAR WASH SYSTEM
In-bay automatics have a few areas of opportunity. The appropriate use of banners, menu boards, and windmaster signs can help increase a wash’s volume and average ticket price. As in the case with self-service washes, anytime you add a feature such as an all-season protect-ant, wheel cleaner, or triple-foam polish make sure to create and hang banners to make customers aware of the change. Again, make sure to place the banners in a location visible to customers passing-by.

Defining your car wash packages presents another opportunity. A menu board will help customers understand the differences between each package. If the customer does not know what the benefit of the higher-end package is, he or she will not be willing to pay for it. When the customer pulls up to an auto cashier and views this menu (below left), what information is available to make the proper choice? Looking at the next menu (below right), one can see that each wash package is clearly defined.

Customers can see what the top package has to offer enabling them to make a more informed choice. This not only promotes a higher average ticket but also repeat business. Customers get what they expect and don’t leave the wash feeling mislead.

Ideally, this menu should be attached to or printed as a decal for your auto cashier. Other options include printing out the menu as an insert for a driveway windmaster sign holder or wall-mount unit. Select the option that keeps the menu in the closest visual range to the auto cashier and customer.

CAR WASH EQUIPMENT EDUCATION
Over the past few years, the self-service industry has seen many upgrades specifically to the appearance and function of car wash meter boxes. Standard eight-function meter boxes are being replaced with 10 and even 12 functions. The upgraded boxes have credit card readers, bill acceptors, and fleet-card systems. Considering the magnitude of these equipment changes, does the customer really know how to use them properly? More importantly, do they understand their benefits? As an owner, what can be done to market and promote the changes?

SELF-SERVICE CAR WASH SYSTEM
Many owners spend countless dollars to upgrade the equipment in their facility but fall short on face-to-face customer education. If customers do not understand the changes, they will be less likely to try them out. Even with the proper instruction signs, a small portion of customers will shy away from new products. This is a great opportunity to both educate and develop personal relationships with customers.

It may sound a little old fashioned, but time spent at your wash educating customers on product benefits and proper use is priceless. For example, a car wash owner spends money to upgrade his bay package to include in-bay dryer systems. He installs the units, hangs the provided instruction signs, and months later is upset because he is not seeing the increased profits as advertised. Where did he go wrong? Again, do not underestimate the benefit of going into a bay and dropping a few quarters into the meter box to demonstrate the proper use and function of a new product. Time spent physically educating your customers is time spent building future equity. Don’t forget, as a self-service owner, the goal is to sell time to customers. The more functions they use during each visit, the more time in the bay – hence, increased revenue.

IN-BAY AUTOMATICS EQUIPMENT
With in-bay automatics, the task is a little more difficult. It never hurts, though, to help customers evaluate their selection while they are waiting in line. Offer a free upgrade to the next or best package available. Make sure to point out the differences between the packages and why they get more value out of the top package. With the current state of the economy customers are going to be more interested in the upkeep of their vehicles. Explaining how the higher-end wash packages help preserve the car’s finish is a must.

CAR WASH CUSTOMER APPRECIATION
Another simple way to promote your wash is to have a customer appreciation event. This yearly event should be centered on thanking regular customers while trying to draw in new clients. Typically, events are held over the weekend and give customers discounted wash rates. Make sure to supply refreshments such as soda pop, popcorn, and hot dogs. Don’t over-complicate the event; just keep it simple and focus on face time with customers and showing them your appreciation.

CAR WASH COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Many car wash owners overlook being involved with their local communities. Involvement with Rotary or local kids’ groups can help to promote your wash through association. Committed long-term customers are typically involved in local fundraising groups. Associating with these groups can help drive up regular business. People are willing to help those who are giving back to the community. Volunteering one’s wash for a local fundraiser is a diamond in the rough. Short term, it may set back the wash a few dollars for chemicals and utility costs. Long term, the fundraiser will draw in new clients who may not have tried the wash under regular circumstances. Secondly, you are supporting a good cause and helping out the community. With economic times being as tough as they are, reaching out to your community will go a long way toward increasing business and building a loyal customer base.

The marketing of a self-service, in-bay automatic wash will continue to evolve as new car wash equipment, parts, systems and services are introduced and new promotional techniques emerge. In this article we have but scratched the surface of this wide-ranging and heavily discussed topic. At the end of the day, any opportunity taken or effort put towards promoting and marketing your wash is a good investment.

Trent Walter – General Manager
National Pride Car Wash Equipment – Ashland, Ohio
Car Wash Equipment, Systems and Parts
(800) 537-6788
http://www.NationalPrideCarWash.com

Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Charles_Collins/17693

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Top 13: What Are The Best Car Cleaning Products

Keeping your car sparkling can sometimes be a lot of work. Depending on your interest level, you may just take some soapy water and hose to it periodically. Others like to go the extra mile and make sure it’s clean top to bottom, inside and out. Keep your car in the art form by using a dual action polisher products from Zas.com.au.

If you’re like me, having a clean and spotless car on a Monday morning helps me get ready to tackle the week ahead. I’m not talking showroom perfection but closer to a trip to a professional detailer.

So

What are the best car cleaning products to make this happen? Here’s a look at 13 that will help you get your car looking showroom ready.

1. Meguiar’s G7164 Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo & Conditioner

Meguiar’s Gold Class Car Wash Shampoo and Conditioner was created to take care of cleaning and conditioning the paint on your car in one easy step. It gently cleans away dirt, grime and contaminants without stripping the wax.

It also has a paint conditioner that reveals the color (White, Red or Black wax) and clarity of your paint job while cleaning away the debris.

Product Features Include:

  • It was created to clean and condition your paint job at the same time
  • The product provides an advanced cleaning formula that works without removing your car’s wax protection
  • Cleans away grime from the road plus heavy dirt and contaminants
  • Includes an ultra-rich paint conditioner that leaves you paint with a radiant look

2. MOTHERS 05632 California Gold Car Wash

Mothers 05632 California Gold Car Wash was designed to perform with a precise balance of a powerful cleaner with accurate care. It was made so that you can thoroughly wash your car and protect it’s finish. Many of the other cleaners and soaps can destroy your wax in the name of getting rid of dirt and grime.

Best Car Cleaning ProductsNot this cleaner, it’s strong enough to clean away the dirt, grime, bugs, pollutants and bird droppings while maintain your wax and shiny paint job.

Mothers is a pH balanced, super-sudsy cleaner that also resists water spotting.

3. Chemical Guys Citrus Wash & Gloss Concentrated Car Wash

Best Car Cleaning ProductsCitrus Wash & Gloss Concentrated Car Wash is a natural cleaner created from citrus that is both a shampoo and gloss enhancer.

You can dilute this product with 1 cap full to 5 gallons of water to produce a fabulously clean and shiny surface.

Since it is citrus based, it is the ultimate exterior paint cleaner and gloss enhancer in one bottle. It has a quick and powerful citrus formula that lifts off dirt and grime from the surface to keep it from scratching the paint when it is rinsed off.

This 100 percent pure cleaner does not include artificial colors, additive or thickeners and provides the cleanest high gloss finish without streaks.

4. Liquid Glass LG-100 Ultimate Auto Polish/Finish

Liquid Glass LG-100 Ultimate Auto Polish/Finish can create a finish on your car that looks like a mirror that also helps to stop effects of acid rain, salt deterioration, sap, rust, tar, dulling, bugs and corrosion.

best car cleaning products review

Liquid Glass creates a highly durable gloss finish in less time than other products require.

Once it has dried, Liquid Glass will never chip, crack or even turn yellow and is hard as glass and never needs to be removed.

It is safe to use on all paint types as well as all bright work and all glass surfaces.

5. Mothers 07240 California Gold Clay Bar System

best car detailing productsMothers 07240 California Gold Clay Bar System is one of those clay bars that all the professional detailers use and all your car buddies want.

The Mothers Clay Bar systems was developed to eliminate particulate debris and contaminants that isn’t possible with just washing and polishing.

Our Clay Bar System can actually remove embedded grains in the metal, sap, tree, and airborne environmental deposits.

Plus, the clay bar isn’t hazardous to your paint job but strong enough to take off all the bad stuff without damaging anything. Mothers Clay Bar is perfect to get rid of the dirt and grime before you put your wax finish on.

6. Mothers 10016 Reflections Car Wax

best car wash productsMothers 10016 Reflections Car Wax is part of the latest in car care technology. Mothers Reflections Car Wax is guaranteed to be the best you have ever used. Mothers has been able to mix mild cleaners with high gloss polymers due to advancements in liquid polymer technologies.

Their product is easy to use and gives your car a fabulous, long lasting super wet shine. It can be used on its own or with Mothers Reflections Top Coat.

7. MicroFiber Towels

A microfiber towel is a new technology that is widely used in the car detailing industry. There are several versions including the “Original Microfiber Miracle Towel”, microfiber pad, microfiber mitt, Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloth, microfiber glove or the Waffle Weave Microfiber Towel. These towels help clean your car faster, with less effort and with amazing results.

Microfiber is a manmade cloth that mixes two different fibers – polyamide and polyester. It’s the polyester that gives microfiber durability and strength while the polyamide makes the fabric absorbent and fast drying.

After a vehicle is washed, it’s important to use a good drying towel as leaving a car to air dry will allow water spots to develop.

It’s important to make sure your drying towel is absorbent but also gentle on your paint job. Microfiber towels lessen drying times because they require less time wringing them out. They absorb twice as much water as regular terry towels.

8. Clay Bars

Clay bars were created to eliminate debris and contaminants that regular washing and polishing doesn’t remove. Clay bars can remove materials that are embedded into the surface of your car and won’t damage your paint job.

It’s strong enough to clean up dirt and grime without being too harsh. It’s a great method to use right before your wax your car.

After you use the clay bar system, your car’s surface will feel as smooth as glass and is ready for the next layer of protection.

Clay bars are safe on vehicle paint, glass, lights, wheel and lots more. Despite a common misconception, clay bars cannot remove scratches or swirls. It is recommended to use this method approximately twice a year or before you plant to polish your car.

If you live in an area that is heavily contaminated, you may want to use it more often.

9. Using Buckets to Execute “The Two Bucket Method”

The Two Bucket Method is a great way to wash your vehicle and lessens the chance of putting swirls into your vehicle’s paint. One bucket is used for the wash solution while the second bucket is just plain water that is used as a rinse with a wash mitt.

10. Black + Decker Lithium Cordless Dust Buster Hand Vac

best car wash productsBLACK + DECKER CHV1410L 16 volt Lithium Cordless Dust Buster Hand Vac is great for a quick pick up that has lithium technology and strong suction power. The Black and Decker comes with a translucent bag less dirt bowl so the dirt is easy to find and empty out.

It’s always ready to use and can hold a charge for up to 18 months while its not on the charger. It’s also lightweight to pick up small messes around the house or vacuum out your car.

The Black and Decker comes with highly efficient Lithium ion chargers that protect your hand vac with an automatic shut off when the battery is fully charged.

12. Mothers Carpet & Upholstery Brush

Mothers Carpet & Upholstery Brush is part of the Mothers High Performance Car Care Accessories which is a complete line of car care products that feature the unique microfiber products. Mothers brush is lightweight and ergonomically designed.

They come with a non-slip comfort grip and protective rubber bumpers. The stiff scratch-free bristles help to clean carpet and upholstery by loosening dirt and debris and works well with Mothers Carpet & Upholstery cleaner spray.