Digital boards, also known as digital menu boards, are an important part of any business that offers food or beverages. They allow customers to quickly and easily see what is available to order, and they can help to influence purchasing decisions. Choosing the right screen size for your digital menu board can offer several advantages over traditional printed menus, such as the ability to easily update content and display dynamic information like images and videos.
Digital boards come in a variety of sizes. The size of a digital board will depend on the location it is intended for, as well as the purpose it serves. Smaller digital boards might be suitable for small businesses or venues with limited space, while larger boards might be used in larger public spaces or venues.
So what sizes are digital menu boards? What are the advantages and disadvantages of different sizes? And what factors to consider when choosing a digital menu display size?
Standard Digital Menu Board Sizes
When it comes to digital menu boards, there are a few standard screen size options that are commonly used:
The most common sizes for menu boards
32 inches – This size is typically used for small businesses or limited spaces. It is also a popular size for digital menu boards in drive-thru menus.
40 inches – This size is commonly used for indoor digital menu boards in restaurants, cafes, and other food service businesses.
50 inches – This size is typically used for larger spaces, such as airports, train stations, and malls.
55 inches – This is the largest common size for digital menu boards and is often used for high-traffic areas, such as large shopping malls or fast-food chains.
Comparison of Landscape vs. Portrait Orientation
Digital menu boards can be displayed in either landscape or portrait orientation. The former is the most common, as it allows for more information to be displayed on the screen. The latter, on the other hand, is useful for displaying information vertically, such as for a list of drinks or items in a single column.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Different Sizes
Each digital menu board size has its advantages and disadvantages. Smaller sizes are more affordable and easier to install in tight spaces, but they may not provide enough space to display all of the necessary information. Larger sizes can display more information and are easier to see from a distance, but they can be more expensive and take up more space.
In terms of orientation, landscape orientation can display more information and is more common, but portrait orientation can be useful for displaying specific items vertically, such as drinks or desserts.
Overall, the size and orientation of a digital menu board will depend on the specific needs of the business and the location in which it will be installed. Careful consideration of these factors will help ensure that the digital menu board is effective and meets the needs of both the business and its customers.
Custom Menu Board Sizes
In addition to the standard sizes for digital menu boards, businesses also have the option to create custom sizes to fit their unique needs. Custom menu board sizes are often used by businesses that have limited space or that want to create a unique look and feel for their digital signage displays.
Explanation of Custom Sizes
Custom menu board sizes refer to displays that are tailored to fit the specific needs of a business. These displays can be designed to fit any size or shape, and they can be used to create a unique and memorable experience for customers.
Why Businesses Might Opt for Custom Sizes?
There are several reasons why businesses might choose to use custom menu board sizes. One of the most common reasons is limited space. In some cases, businesses may only have a small area in which to display their menu items, and a standard size display may not fit. Custom menu board sizes can be created to fit any space, no matter how small or awkwardly shaped.
Another reason businesses might opt for custom sizes is to create a unique look and feel for their digital signage displays.
Custom sizes can be used to create displays that are shaped like the company logo or that have a distinctive design that sets them apart from other businesses.
Examples of Businesses that Use Custom Sizes
Custom menu board sizes are used by a wide range of businesses, from small mom-and-pop restaurants to large fast-food chains. For example, a small coffee shop might use a custom size screen that fits in a small space on the counter.
A large fast-food chain might use custom sizes to create displays that are shaped like their iconic logo or that fit into a unique architectural feature of their restaurants.
Overall, custom menu board sizes offer businesses the flexibility to create displays that fit their specific needs and help them stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Screen Size For Digital Menu Board :
Choosing the right menu board size for your business is an important decision that can impact how effectively you communicate with your customers. Here are some factors to consider when determining the appropriate size for your digital menu board:
Number of Items on the Menu:
The first factor to consider when choosing a menu board size is the number of items on the menu. If you have a large menu with many items, you may need a larger screen to fit everything. Conversely, if you have a smaller menu, a smaller display may be more appropriate.
Viewing Distance:
Another important factor to consider is the viewing distance. If your menu board will be placed in an area where customers will be standing close to it, such as in a fast-food restaurant, a smaller display may be appropriate.
However, if your menu board will be placed in an area where customers will be viewing it from a distance, such as in a shopping mall or airport, a larger display may be necessary to ensure that it is visible.
Available Space:
The available space is another factor to consider when choosing a menu board size. If you have limited space, you may need to choose a smaller display or a custom size display that fits your available space. Conversely, if you have plenty of space, you may be able to choose a larger display that can accommodate more information.
Budget
The final factor to consider is your budget. Larger displays are typically more expensive than smaller displays, so you will need to consider the cost when choosing a menu board size.
How to Determine the Appropriate Screen Size for Your Business?
To determine the appropriate size for your digital menu board, consider the factors listed above, including the number of items on the menu, viewing distance, available space, and budget. You may also want to consider conducting a survey of your customers/ Consumers to determine their preferences for menu board size and placement.
Ultimately, the goal is to choose a size that effectively communicates your menu items and promotions to your customers while fitting within your available space and budget.
Tips & Best Practices for Creating Effective & High-quality Menu Boards
Creating an effective digital display is key to communicating your offerings and driving sales. Here are some tips to keep in mind when designing your digital menu board:
Clear and Concise Information:
One of the most important aspects of an effective menu board is clear and concise information. Your menu board should provide customers with all the necessary information they need to make a decision quickly and easily. This includes item names, prices, and any relevant descriptions.
Font Size, Color, and Style:
The font size, color, and style of your menu board solution can play a big role in its effectiveness. Use a font size that is large enough and easy to read from a distance, and choose colors that are easy on the eyes and complement your brand. Consider using different font styles or highlighting certain information to make it stand out.
Organizing Information:
Organizing the menu information in a clear and logical manner is crucial. Use categories, such as appetizers, entrees, and desserts, to group similar items together. Make sure that your menu board is easy to scan, with clear headings and subheadings.
Making it Visually Appealing:
A menu board that look great can help attract customers and encourage them to make a purchase. Consider using high-quality images of your food items, or even video content if possible. Use colors and design elements that reflect your brand and create a cohesive look. You can check this article for more details on how to create a visually appealing digital menu board: What Makes A Good Digital Menu Board: Design Tips & Best Practices!
Highlighting Promotions and Specials:
Promotions and specials are a great way to drive sales and increase customer interest. Use your menu board to highlight these offers in a prominent location, such as at the top or bottom of the board. Use eye-catching colors or design elements to make these promotions stand out.
In summary, creating an effective menu board requires careful consideration of the information presented, the color, and style used, the organization of information, and the visual appeal of the board. By following these tips, you can create a menu board that effectively communicates your offerings and drives sales.
Choosing the right screen size for digital menu board
Choosing the right size for your digital menu board is an important decision that can impact the effectiveness of your communication with customers. It is important to consider factors such as the number of items on the menu, viewing distance, available space, and budget when making your decision.
Additionally, creating an effective menu board requires careful consideration of the information presented, the color, and style used, the organization of information, and the visual appeal of the board. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can create a menu board that effectively communicates your offerings and drives sales.