Mohawk School in Canada applies digital signage to improve communication with students

The Mohawk College Student Association, not Hamilton (Canada), has resorted to an original way to keep the center's students informed, using a digital signage network managed with Scala software.

A recent project to renovate the Mohawk College Student Center campus facilities in Hamilton, Ontario (Canada), led the Student Association to look for innovative ways to improve communication with students. As part of this initiative, the association deployed a digital signage network using the software Scala to make the latest news and services known to students, as well as to provide instant emergency alerts in case of need.

The Mohawk Student Association chose Scala content management software because it has allowed them to create a digital signage network that delivers up-to-date, relevant content., interactive and dynamic messages that take advantage of social networks like Twitter, the ability to make changes to the screen at any time, content that can be scheduled in advance, and multiple channels to deliver unique messages to specific audiences.

The Scala partner Red Marketing Services (GMS) implemented turnkey solution including Scala software 5 and designer, LCD screens Samsung, network installation, Scala content design consultation and operational training for network and content management.

Capture students' attention
Steve Kosh, director of marketing and communications for the Mohawk Student Association, commented that “the combination of GMS and Scala software has helped us create a digital signage network to communicate with students and surprise them.”. Our new system makes the messages stand out and very fun to catch the attention of students, covering campus activities, social events such as concerts and movie nights, community news and administrative communications.”

The project has included 12 independent content channels and 26 LCD screens with sizes from 32 a 60 inches. The network uses a separate infrastructure to transmit video, audio and control device signals on screens located throughout high traffic areas of the school such as the main entrance, the reception and main hallways. The digital network also keeps students informed in other relevant spaces on campus such as the cafeteria., two quick service restaurants and a convenience store 100. The most impressive display can be found at The Arnie, a restaurant, pub and leisure area. When students enter The Arnie, are greeted by a giant video wall made up of nine screens 46 inches. Once inside, there are four other screens 46 inches showing the latest news through Arnie's specific channel.

Andy McRae, CEO of Scala Canada, has pointed out that “with the amount of information that bombards students daily, It can be very difficult for colleges and universities to convey effective messages to students.. The Mohawk Student Association has been very creative in the way they use digital signage with multiple channels and spaces, also incorporating social media. Their approach delivers communications in a way that really grabs people's attention.”.