The investment required to purchase and deploy a large digital signage network can easily climb into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Even when the economy is robust and revenues are stable, an investment of that magnitude can be difficult to absorb. Today, the economic climate is less than stellar and many companies are tightening their budgetary belts. Lower cost ways to take advantage of out-of-home media solutions are becoming much more popular.

Enter digital signage frames. Unlike the flat panels and LCD screens that have been the industry's mainstay, these smaller panels offer an affordable way for small businesses to invest in the technology. In some venues, the frames may even be more effective than their larger cousins. Here are four venues in which these smaller panels can offer a cost-effective path to investing in a digital signage network.

#1 - Hotels

A lot of hotels have restaurants and other shops located within. The challenge is motivating guests to visit them. In many cases, guests may not be aware of the services offered by the hotel. Or, they might realize they're there, but need an encouraging push to patronize them. Small digital signage frames can be an ideal solution for hotels that lack the financial resources to invest in large panels. Frames can be placed into each room that inform guests of the restaurants, bars, and other shops. The content loops can promote specials. Or, they can include ad spots from nearby businesses in order to generate advertising revenue.

#2 - Veterinarians' Offices

People who bring their dogs, cats, and other pets to a veterinarian are understandably concerned, especially if it's an emergency. A small signage panel can be put in the waiting area to alleviate customers' stress. The content loop can show pictures of healthy pets and their owners. It can also display the veterinarian's degrees and notable accreditations. Depending on location, the loop can even include promotional segments that reminds the owner to stock up on medicine for tick season. Plus, the entire loop can be designed in-house by the vet and office employees.

#3 - Hospitals And Physicians' Offices

Many hospitals have cut their budgets and as a result, cannot afford to invest in multiple large displays. The smaller frames can be placed throughout the hospital in rooms, the waiting area, and even the outpatient area. Chances are, the hospital or physician's office provides a number of elective services that patients would find valuable. For example, a physician might offer minor cosmetic procedures or a host of different medicines. The content loop can promote these services while also informing patients about the pros and cons of using various medications.

#4 - Car Dealerships

When people visit car dealerships, they usually have a good idea regarding the vehicle they want to buy. However, they might be unaware about various financing terms, popular options, or even car-related services (for example, tinting, car spas, etc.) provided by local businesses. The smaller digital signage frames can be placed on the desks of the salespeople. As a salesperson goes back and forth between his desk and his manager's office, the customer can be shown a content loop that promotes various options.

Many companies are delaying their investment in a digital signage network until the economy shows signs of improvement. However, investing in smaller frames might be a better solution. The panels are less expensive and can display customized content as effectively as larger screens. Plus, depending on the venue, the limited space available might be more appropriate for smaller displays. A digital signage network that uses small frames rather than large flat panels is an affordable way for budget-conscious companies to adopt the technology.