Understanding the
Scoring System
Digital Signage Software Compass
The Digital Signage Software Compass provides a transparent, expert-led scoring model to help you evaluate and compare digital signage software solutions. Each score is the result of a thorough analysis, performed by the independent experts at invidis consulting. Below, we explain how our scoring system works and why it offers a unique advantage to vendors, integrators, and end-users alike.
Scoring Categories Evaluated
Each software solution is evaluated across multiple categories. Here are the key categories in our scoring model.
The Experience category evaluates the end-to-end user journey, with a primary focus on the Content Management System (CMS). It assesses how intuitive and efficient the platform is for content creators and managers. Key aspects include the quality of the UI/UX, drag-and-drop capabilities, template management, preview fidelity, and the overall ease of scheduling and publishing content. A high score indicates a platform that minimizes friction and empowers non-technical users to create impactful digital signage experiences.
The Operations category measures the robustness and reliability of the platform's infrastructure. It covers critical "keep-the-lights-on" capabilities such as device management, remote monitoring, health checks, and automated recovery (watchdogs). It also deeply evaluates security standards (ISO 27001, SSO) and hosting flexibility (cloud-native, on-premise, containerization). A high score reflects a system built for stability, scalability, and secure enterprise deployment.
The Connectivity category assesses the platform's ability to integrate with the wider IT ecosystem. It looks at the maturity of its APIs (REST, Headless capabilities), the quality of developer documentation, and the ease of data exchange. This category also includes reporting and analytics, evaluating how well the system can export data or ingest external data sources for real-time content triggering. A high score indicates a platform that acts as a connected hub rather than a silo.
The Innovation category identifies platforms that are pushing the boundaries of digital signage technology. It heavily weights forward-looking features such as Artificial Intelligence (AI content generation, predictive maintenance, audience analytics), support for emerging hardware like E-Paper, and modern architectural approaches (Serverless, Microservices). A high score suggests a vendor with a strong vision for the future and a roadmap that embraces cutting-edge advancements.
The Reach category evaluates the software's suitability for diverse and expansive deployments. It considers the platform's global footprint (regional support, languages), its adaptability to specific vertical markets (Retail, QSR, Corporate), and its commercial capabilities (Retail Media networks, programmatic advertising). It also looks at how well the system handles complex, multi-location networks. A high score indicates a platform ready for global scale and diverse business models.
How Scores Are Calculated
Our transparent scoring methodology ensures fair and accurate comparisons across all software solutions.
Each software's score is determined by assigning points to its features, and these points are weighted according to the category's importance. The influence of each feature in a category is crucial. The higher the point value assigned to a feature, the greater its impact on the category's overall score. For example, in today's tech landscape, features like 'API First approach' might be highly valued, and thus assigned a higher point value. These valuations can evolve over time, adapting to new trends or technological advancements.
Calculation Example
In the Innovation category, if all relevant software features receive 8 out of 16 possible points, its category points are calculated as follows. For the final scoring, the category points are multiplied by 10. The final score is then displayed in the network diagram.
To calculate the total score in the results table, all scores of the 8 categories are added together.
This scoring approach ensures that you can easily compare software across multiple categories and understand where each solution excels.
Why Our Scoring System Is Unique
Expert-Led, Independent Evaluation
Scores are determined through a rigorous, expert-led process, ensuring objectivity and transparency.
Adaptable and Future-Proof
The scoring system evolves with market trends, keeping you up to date with the latest digital signage developments.
Actionable Insights
Vendors can leverage the scoring to identify areas for product improvement, while integrators and end-users gain a clear understanding of the best-fit solutions for their needs.
Ready to Explore the Compass?
Find the best software for your needs or learn more about how to get your software listed and verified.