Existing Signs: Path to Digital Signage Tiered Solutions

The ITS Digital Signage team is committed to supporting existing customers in shifting to our new Tiered Solutions as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

  • Timing depends on a number of factors and will often be specific to each sign.
  • The Hardware Lifecycle Roadmap indicates how long Digital Signage will support your current hardware. Note that:
    • All departments need to plan for completing the transition by the end of FY29. Specifically, all replacements are purchased and new managed devices are installed.
    • PC signage players will no longer work on the network effective January 1, 2030.
  • We will continue to provide you with the help resources you need through the end of FY29.
  • Contact ITS Digital Signage with questions or to request a consult related to any of the following information and scenarios.

Early Adoption

Request a consult if you are interested in early adoption of the new Tiered Solutions model, or if your hardware is currently overdue for replacement. We will work with you to identify the best options and guide you through the next steps.

Hardware Replacement

The most common transition point is when replacing signage hardware. Contact us early in your planning process for personalized consult.

Signage Player PCs

  • Legacy players have a supported lifespan of 4 years.
  • Devices purchased before December 2025 will be supported until June 2029.
  • Unsure about your models? We can help you review your inventory.
  • Refer to the Hardware Lifecycle Roadmap for end-of-life details.
  • Contact us to discuss the best approach for replacing older PC-based players.

Displays / TVs

  • If your TV is over 5 years old or no longer working, consider transitioning to Tiered Solutions. ITS will manage future replacements as part of your service fee.
  • You can move to the new solution without immediately replacing your TV.
  • The Custom tier offers flexibility, allowing you to mix and match display hardware, signage player, and content platform to fit your needs.

Mid-Cycle Replacements

  • The signage PC lifecycle often differs from the TV display lifecycle.
  • ITS will consider taking ownership of displays less than 3 years old and begin planning for their future refresh.
  • Consider this option if you are replacing signage player PCs and enrolling in a tiered solution bundle.

Budgeting and Costs

  • Plan ahead to budget hardware costs and service fees for the fiscal year you expect to transition.
  • Future hardware replacements will be covered by your new service fee.
  • Note that your department is responsible for the initial hardware cost.

Installation

  • Wall-mounted displays for Tiered Solutions must be reinstalled using standardized mounting hardware, available from the Tech Shop.
  • Reinstallation is usually handled by Unit IT, local Facilities & Operations (F&O), or U-M Net Audiovisual service.
  • Future replacements of displays or media players will be performed by ITS Digital Signage.

Content Overhauls and Organizational Changes

  • If your current Content Manager(s) are leaving and new team members will be responsible for digital signage, take this opportunity to revisit and potentially change your content and associated workflows.
  • If you plan to continue using Four Winds, consider Managed Template Support to free your team from maintaining signage builds within Four Winds.

Understanding the Service Rates

  • The new Tiered Solutions offer flexibility, allowing you to choose the platform, hardware, and support level that best fit each sign. Options include Turnkey, Basic, Advanced, and Custom tiers to suit unique needs.
  • Package rates include the following components:
    • Platform (content management system licensing and infrastructure)
    • Content player appliance/computer (Signage Stick or BrightSign)
    • Display hardware (kiosk or wall-mounted TV)
    • ITS service operating costs and support for all standards components.
  • The annual license fee for all legacy signs will increase from $250 to $350 per display starting in FY27.
    • This change in fee is being driven by increased cost of the Four Winds platform.
    • The higher fee will remain in place for each sign until it is transitioned to a new tier.
    • If you switch to the Turnkey or Basic tiers, you won’t be charged Four Winds license fees, since these options don’t use the Four Winds platform. For Advanced and Custom tiers that use Four Winds, license fees are included in the tier pricing.