Common Digital Signage Installation Mistakes We See

Digital signage can be a game-changer for your business, but only if it’s installed correctly. In this article, we’ll walk you through the most common digital signage installation mistakes we encounter and what to do instead. Whether you’re adding screens to a single location or rolling out signage across multiple sites, this list can help you avoid surprises, delays, and wasted budget.

The right screens in the right places and running the right content can grab attention, guide customers, train staff, and boost brand perception. But even the best technology can fall flat (or worse, become a money pit) if it’s not installed with strategy and precision.

At Carolina Georgia Sound, we’ve been helping businesses integrate audio-visual systems since 1988. Over the years, we’ve seen all kinds of digital signage installs: some done right, many done wrong. The difference usually comes down to a few avoidable mistakes that show up again and again.

Mistake #1: Poor Placement & Visibility

Where you place your screens is just as important as what’s on them.

One of the most common (and costly) errors in digital signage installation is putting screens where they’re easy to install, not where they’ll be most visible. We’ve seen screens tucked into corners, placed behind glare-prone windows, or mounted so high or low that people barely notice them.

To avoid making this mistake, consider the viewing angles, foot traffic flow, and ambient lighting in the proposed signage location. The goal is to position the signage where people naturally look or wait, such as entrances, checkout lines, or waiting areas.

CGS Tip: Think of your signage like a billboard. It needs high visibility, limited distractions, and just enough time to leave an impression.

Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Type of Display

Using a consumer-grade TV for your business signage can lead to premature failure, poor image quality, and warranty issues.

We’ve seen businesses mount budget flat screens expecting them to run 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. Unfortunately, most of these displays aren’t built for that kind of load.

Here’s why it’s a problem:

• • Consumer displays overheat and wear out quickly in commercial use.
  • Brightness levels may be too low for well-lit areas.
  • Warranties often become void in commercial environments.

Here’s what to do instead: Use commercial-grade displays that are specifically built for digital signage. These are designed for long runtimes, higher brightness, better cooling, and remote management. Some even allow for portrait orientation and edge-to-edge tiling for video walls.

CGS Tip: If your signage will run more than 8 hours a day (or in bright or public-facing spaces), investing in professional-grade displays protects both your wallet and your reputation.

Mistake #3: Inadequate Content Planning

Digital signage is also about what you put on the screen. Poorly thought-out content leads to low engagement or confusion. We’ve seen digital signs with outdated promos and slides changing too fast to read.

To avoid making this mistake, start with a content strategy that answers these questions:

• • Who’s watching, and when?
  • What do you want them to think, feel, or do?
  • How often should content change?

Then, create simple, focused slides with legible text, high-contrast visuals, and a clear call to action. Rotate content frequently to keep it fresh.

CGS Tip: Digital signage should support your sales, branding, or service goals. Consider hiring a designer or content strategist to get it right from the start.

Mistake #4: Poor Display Placement

One of the most common mistakes we see in digital signage installs is poor placement. Screens get mounted too high, too low, at awkward angles, or in areas with too much glare or foot traffic congestion. These mistakes make viewers miss key information.

Before choosing a wall or ceiling, consider the following:

• • Viewing angles: Is the screen visible and legible from common approach points?
  • Height and distance: Is it at eye level or the proper distance for easy reading?
  • Ambient lighting: Will glare or reflections obscure the content?
  • Traffic flow: Will people naturally stop, glance, or engage with the screen?

CGS Tip: Walk your space with your AV technician to test sightlines and traffic flow before your digital signage installation. A few feet can make the difference between ignored signage and high-impact engagement.

Mistake #5: Lack of System Integration or Control Planning

Digital signage should work seamlessly with your other AV systems, network infrastructure, and content strategy. Unfortunately, many businesses treat signage as a one-off install and forget to plan for system control or content updates.

Here’s why it’s a problem:

• • Without central control, updating content becomes a manual, inconsistent process.
  • Poor planning means higher costs in the long run when upgrades or scaling become necessary.

Instead, ask your AV integrator to:

• • Design a centralized management platform so content across multiple displays can be updated from one interface.
  • Ensure compatibility with your existing network, firewalls, and IT security policies.
  • Plan for scalability (Will you be adding locations, screens, or types of content later?)

CGS Tip: Choose digital signage software that allows for remote content scheduling, performance tracking, and easy integration with your CRM, POS, or calendar systems if needed.

Don’t Let These Mistakes Undermine Your Investment

Rushing through setup, skipping planning steps, or relying on inexperienced vendors often leads to digital signage systems that underperform or require costly rework. By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, you’re setting your business up for long-term success.

At Carolina Georgia Sound, we’ve had hundreds of digital signage installation projects across retail stores, corporate campuses, schools, healthcare facilities, and more. Since 1988, we’ve been helping businesses like yours make smart AV decisions that drive real results.

From initial planning to final install and ongoing support, we do it right… because we’ve seen what happens when it’s not.

Thinking about adding digital signage to your space?

Let’s make sure it’s done right the first time. Contact CGS today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.