+6010-388 6233
Should you get your digital signage locally or internationally?
A Closer Look at Local and Foreign Digital Signage Providers
Digital displays have become essential to the marketing and advertising strategies of different businesses in Malaysia and beyond, such as retail and food service. They are a flexible and effective medium to communicate and advertise a business to a public audience.
It takes time to determine the best digital signage provider for your business. Whether you buy from a local provider or an international brand, each choice has its benefits and drawbacks for you and your business. This article aims to determine whether you should choose a local or foreign supplier for your digital signage needs.
What Is The Main Difference?
Depending on the scope of your business and its field, you are likely to primarily source your digital signage and display needs locally or internationally exclusively. This is because of the cost and benefit differences of buying locally or internationally. What matters more than where your digital signage comes from is how much it will help your business versus how much it will cost.
Local Digital Signage Providers
In recent times, businesses in Malaysia, have been increasingly prioritizing digital signage as they transition towards greater digital integration. This shift is evident as companies in Malaysia are moving away from traditional advertising methods and static billboards, opting instead for dynamic and versatile digital signage solutions.
As such, the demand for digital signage in Malaysia by local businesses has increased, as has the availability of local digital signage suppliers like Megascreen. Though the quality of each brand and its digital signage may vary, the local supply chain usually offers the same advantages and drawbacks.
Benefits
Shorter Supply Chain:
Getting your digital signage and screens from local providers simplifies the transportation processes without unnecessary international shipping and delivery transitions. This helps to streamline your supply chain and improve overall efficiency.
Clear and Transparent Pricing:
Opting for a local digital signage provider ensures straightforward billing, minimizing the chances of hidden costs or international fees. This choice can significantly reduce expenses and provide better cost clarity.
Reliable Technical Support:
Every digital signage model is distinct and possesses a unique DNA. Local suppliers that have been in the business for longer are more likely to be acquainted with your specific requirements and offer consistent customer support.
Costs
Limited Availability:
Although the digital signage industry is growing, local providers in developing countries, like Malaysia, may have fewer options and limited stock availability. Consequently, the immediate cost of buying locally might be higher, and there could be waiting queues for orders.
Older Hardware Concerns:
Some local providers may not have access to the same technology as their larger international competitors. This could impact the quality and design of their digital signage, potentially lacking advancements like improved LED displays or touch-screen interactivity.
Overall
Sourcing your digital signage from a local provider offers several significant benefits. It is especially useful to have an experienced local supplier to provide comprehensive technical support and customised solutions.
However, weighing these benefits against potential costs, such as limited product variety or higher prices compared to global suppliers, is essential. Evaluating the advantages and costs will help you make an informed decision that best aligns with your unique requirements and budget.
International Digital Signage Providers
Many foreign brands and companies remain the main digital signage provider for many countries, including Malaysia. Companies like Panasonic and Sony are at the cutting edge of digital signage technology, providing for the advertising needs of an international audience at affordable prices.
While importing digital signage from reputable and established brands may be tempting, it could adversely affect your business’s long-term upkeep and cost-effectiveness if not given the proper consideration.
Benefits
Bulk Savings:
International suppliers often provide discounts for larger orders, making it ideal for businesses seeking substantial quantities of digital signage, especially from mass-production sources.
Broader Choices:
Opting for international suppliers expands your choices for various types of digital signage, aligning with your brand and needs. This also includes high-quality options with unique features that might be scarce locally due to manufacturing variations. One notable example of this is Samsung’s “SMART Signage”. Their SMART Signage lineup includes a diverse selection of displays that come in different sizes, resolutions, and configurations, allowing businesses to choose the best fit for their specific needs.
Review Insights:
Customer feedback makes evaluating a foreign supplier’s quality simpler. Businesses can gauge reliability and product appeal by browsing online reviews, helping inform purchase decisions.
Costs
Delivery Time:
International shipments may take longer to arrive, leading to potential delays in implementing digital signage solutions. These delays can range from a few days to potentially months, adding to the risk of product damage during the trip.
Support and Warranty:
Accessing technical support or warranty services from international suppliers can be intricate and time-consuming. Certain companies may not extend support to overseas clients for repair or damage replacement. Additionally, some foreign ‘shell’ companies that only stay open for a few months may not exist to provide support, even if they offered it to begin with.
Bulk Buying Concerns:
Purchasing in large quantities from foreign suppliers raises the potential of encountering subpar manufacturing, leading to premature malfunction or underperformance. An untrustworthy provider can undermine businesses’ investments.
Overall
Sourcing digital signage from a foreign supplier can provide unique and innovative solutions to meet specific needs. On the other hand, dealing with an overseas supplier may involve language barriers, cultural differences, and time zone challenges, affecting communication and customer support. Furthermore, warranty and technical support might be more complex, and returning or exchanging products could involve additional expenses and procedural hurdles.
Carefully weighing the pros and cons will help businesses make an informed decision that aligns with their specific requirements and budget.
Things To Consider
When it comes to determining what digital signage supplier you should choose for your business, there are a few things you need to consider regarding what you and your company need for its advertising.
Product Quality and Customization:
Evaluate the quality of products both local and international suppliers offer. Determine if they can meet your specific customization needs and provide reliable and durable solutions.
Cost and Budget:
Compare the pricing structures, including product costs, shipping, taxes, and import duties. Consider your budget and whether the savings from an international supplier outweigh potential additional costs.
Shipping and Lead Times:
Assess both shipping and delivery times to decide which option aligns better with your business strategy and timeframe.
Customer Support:
Research the level of customer support provided by both local and international suppliers. Timely and efficient support is essential for resolving issues and ensuring smooth operations.
Warranty and Service:
Consider which provider offers better support and warranties on their product to mitigate the risk of damaged or faulty products.
Import Regulations and Compliance:
Understand the import regulations and legal requirements when dealing with foreign suppliers. Compliance with local laws and standards is crucial to avoid complications.
Long-Term Partnership:
Evaluate the potential for establishing a long-term partnership with the supplier. Building a strong relationship can lead to better deals and support in the future.
Conclusion
Choosing between local and foreign digital signage providers is not a one-size-fits-all decision. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
The key to making the right choice is understanding your specific requirements, budget constraints, and long-term goals. Consider factors such as product quality, customization options, shipping times, communication ease, customer support, and regulation compliance. Additionally, assess the potential for a long-term partnership and the supplier’s reputation in the market.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on carefully evaluating your unique needs. By making an informed choice, you can maximize the benefits of digital signage and enhance your business’s engagement, communication, and overall success.