Whether you’re showcasing your menu, promoting specials, or creating a dynamic brand atmosphere, the orientation of your digital signage—horizontal or vertical—can significantly impact its effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown of when to use each and how to maximize its impact in a restaurant setting.
Horizontal Orientation: The Classic Approach
Horizontal displays are the traditional choice for digital signage, and for good reason.
Key Benefits:
- Familiar Format: Most digital screens, like TVs and monitors, are horizontal. This format feels natural to viewers.
- Menu Boards: Ideal for displaying wide menus or combo deals. It allows multiple columns of content to be easily readable.
- Video Content: Perfect for full-screen promotional videos or ambient visuals that capture attention.
Use Cases:
- Overhead menu boards behind the counter.
- Lounge or bar areas displaying sports or entertainment.
- Featured promotions with large images or video.
Vertical Orientation: Modern and Attention-Grabbing
Vertical screens are becoming increasingly popular, especially in environments where space is limited or unique visual impact is needed.
Key Benefits:
- Space Efficiency: Fits well in tight spaces, like beside entrances or on narrow walls.
- Smartphone Influence: Mimics the aspect ratio of smartphones, which resonates with today’s mobile-first consumers.
- Focused Content: Highlights a single message or call to action, ideal for promoting high-margin items or limited-time offers.
Use Cases:
- Digital poster boards near the entrance or waiting areas.
- Highlighting a special dish or drink.
- Interactive kiosks for self-ordering or loyalty program sign-ups.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Orientation
- Content Type: If your content includes extensive text (e.g., full menus), horizontal is often the better choice.
For large, bold visuals or concise messaging, vertical stands out more. - Viewing Distance: For displays intended to be read from a distance, horizontal ensures readability.
Vertical displays are good for close-up interaction or quick-glance content. - Available Space: Assess your restaurant’s layout. Where will the screens be most visible without disrupting foot traffic or customer flow?
- Customer Journey: Think about where and when customers will interact with your signage. Entrance displays may work better vertically to grab attention quickly, while horizontal signs work well where customers linger.
Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds
Some restaurants are adopting a hybrid strategy, using both orientations strategically across their locations. For example, horizontal screens for menu boards and vertical screens for promotional content near entrances or POS systems.
Tailor Your Orientation to Your Goals
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best orientation depends on your restaurant’s specific needs, the type of content you’re showcasing, and how you want customers to interact with your brand. By strategically choosing between horizontal and vertical digital signage—or using both—you can ensure your message is clear, engaging, and effective.
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Reach out to the SmarterSign team today, and let’s bring your vision to life.