By George Williams, Communications Specialist - Planned Legacy Inc.

Since the beginning of recorded history, humans have used visual messaging to communicate their ideas. Digital Visual Messaging (DVM) represents the next step in the evolution of visual messaging.

From pictorial symbols on cave walls to illustrations in books, from television to the Internet, visual messaging has supplemented oral and written communication to provide information that textual messaging could not provide. Where a sentence might use an exclamation mark to change its meaning, visual messaging uses color, shape, texture, movement or speed of delivery to do the same.

Digital Visual Messaging (DVM) is the dynamic display of information and graphically rich content that utilizes state-of-the-art digital technology and high-speed networks to deliver visually stimulating, information-packed messages, in a timely and effective manner.

Recognize donors and volunteers Profile a corporate sponsor Feature upcoming events Applaud a successful campaign Showcase your latest achievements Learn more about TRIBUTE interactive donor recognition and capital campaign promotion systems

Due to its ability to display stunning multimedia, different shapes and colors and full motion video with sound, DVM creates substantial excitement and interest among viewers.

DVM has been proven to reduce customer reaction time, heighten product awareness, improve customer satisfaction, increase revenue, reduce branding costs, minimize printing costs and decrease production and distribution costs.

In non-profit organizations, DVM has proven to heighten awareness, keep community members better informed, improve donor relations, create emotional attachments, increase interest, attract new contributors and speed fundraising initiatives.

Demand for DVM a result of newly aggregated technologies and capabilities

Dynamic and rich multimedia content that is database driven, as well as streaming audio and full motion video, can now be transferred in real time to affordable high-impact mediums such as plasma displays and interactive kiosks, via efficient digital networks that utilize today's high-speed capable IT infrastructure.

The capability of DVM to display attention-grabbing content gives it the ability to move the viewer towards a desired course of action more quickly, while also predisposing the viewer toward certain actions and behaviors in the future.

DVM is used to display information on events, campaigns, sales, prices, locations, features and new developments, as well to display effective branding and marketing messages. In addition, DVM can be used to relay key messages to both internal groups such as employees and managers, and external groups such as consumers, prospective donors and the general public.

DVM can be updated quickly to reflect developments as they occur, whereas in the past it would take days or weeks to develop and change the content for static signage and video commercials. With DVM, messaging can be changed instantly via a Web-enabled computer, allowing the implementer to deliver their messages to specific groups instantly or at pre-set times.

DVM becomes commonplace

DVM is now becoming commonplace for a number of reasons including:

• Quality, affordability and availability
  
• Ability to deliver high-impact communications
  
• Capability to generate positive return on investment
  
• Practicality and ease of installation 
  
• Aggregation of IT- and Web-capable staff
  
• Availability of digital media-editing tools
  
• Easy-to-use updating software
  
• Development of efficient broadband networks

Full-service DVM providers needed

DVM is now readily available, but due to the aggregation of technology and skills required for development in this area, a full service company is required which can help your organization with:

• Analysis of organizational needs, capabilities and goals
  
• Content development and integration into dynamic visual messaging
  
• Display panel and kiosk sourcing, selection and installation
  
• Network component analysis, PC requirements and system integration 
  
• Software tools for controlling and updating content
  
• Training, service, maintenance and warranty terms

Who will benefit from DVM

Facilities and organizations that will benefit most from DVM include but are not limited to hospitals, healthcare organizations, colleges, universities, religious organizations, chain stores, department stores, theatres, arenas, sporting facilities and public venues.

These organizations have high traffic locations and they already use static signage prominently in their marketing, promotions and information delivery systems - all of which their visitors depend on to stay informed.

Throughout history, information has been enhanced and more easily absorbed when it is both timely and visually stimulating. Organizations that have been able top take advantage of the latest discoveries and trends in visual communication and marketing have become leaders in their field.

Heading into the 21st century, DVM has become the communications and marketing technology of choice.

For more information

For specific project examples and demonstrations, or more information on interactive displays, digital messaging systems and integrated donor wall projects, please contact Planned Legacy.