These days more and more ministries are changing their traditional methods of communicating. In addition to Web sites, electronic newsletters, and social media, they’re turning to electronic displays to not only enhance communications with congregants, but to improve their internal operations and communications as well.

There are many creative ways that digital signage can be applied in a worship environment. One of the primary roles of this technology is keeping members and prospective members informed about the ministry itself.

Interactive touch screens can be used to disseminate detailed information for congregants and visitors, such as the ministry’s mission and message, community outreach activities, and what the church has to offer for different age groups. This can be bolstered with videos – repurposed from a ministry’s television network or recorded sermons – and crawling text that speaks directly to the generation the church is attempting to reach.

A donor display screen can highlight the various types of donors to acknowledge those who have given, and inspire others to do the same. Of course, as church facilities continue to grow far beyond a pulpit and pews, digital signage can be used for more practical matters as well. Screens in the children’s area can keep parents apprised of events and even in tune with a streaming video of the sermon itself while they take care of their children. A digital display in the café can show the prices for coffee and food, and list the day’s specials. Screens at the bookstore can give information on books, and list promotional items.

When used for internal communications, it is a simple and convenient way to keep employees informed about ministry events and current affairs, as well as employee anniversaries, birthdays, new hires, and promotions. Links to live information sources can provide employees with current weather conditions, local and national news stories, and other practical information like local traffi c conditions. In the unlikely event of an emergency, instant alerts can be sent out to screens to notify the staff or congregants, or even via text message to their phones.

In an administrative setting, digital signage can improve a ministry’s operations. For example, by integrating digital signage networks with Microsoft® Outlook, conference rooms can be quickly and easily booked via an interactive display at the conference room itself. This eliminates the need for employees to manage scheduling, freeing up more time for other tasks.

A digital signage system can perform a vital function in any ministry. By taking advantage of this technology, ministries can more effectively share their purpose and vision with members and visitors, while improving effi ciency behind the scenes to enhance their services.