As mentioned in an earlier blog entry, Australia has always been playing catch-up with the rest of the world when it comes to adapting new technologies. One of the many reasons why Australia hasn’t been able to keep up with the Digital Signage technology is because the country does not have the infrastructure to support it. I guess you could argue that one of the key contributing factors is audience – without the audience, why do we need such fancy developments?
Coming back from a recent trip in Asia (South Korea, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong), it did not take me by surprise how well people are connected with technology there. Not only do the trains in Tokyo show you the next approaching station but you are informed of the latest albums on sale as well as getting a sneak-peak of what will be showing on TV that night. Whilst you’re waiting for a subway train in Seoul and Hong Kong, you’ll be updated with the latest food menu from the local fast-food chains.
As expected from a region with an audience of millions, it seems that the culture is so rich in technology that it has become part of their everyday lives. You could even catch the latest news headlines as well as the afternoon’s weather as you’re stopping by the 7 Eleven store in Taipei to pick up a few groceries. Digital Signage as it seems, is so commonly applied and strongly integrated into their everyday living.
It would be interesting to see what Australia will be doing in the next few years. To discuss this further, visit our digital signage forum.