University of Chester Deploys 100+ Screen Digital Signage Network Across Three Campuses

The University of Chester has deployed a comprehensive digital signage network connecting more than 100 screens across its three campuses in Chester, Warrington, and Birkenhead. The initiative, developed in partnership with NowSignage and integrator Roche AV, aims to streamline campus communications and enhance the student experience.

Screens installed in teaching spaces, communal areas, and catering outlets deliver student announcements, campus updates, and live event broadcasts. The university's core objective was to ensure consistent information delivery across all locations while preserving each campus's ability to publish locally relevant content.

According to Ben Dempsey Sawin, digital signage specialist at the university, NowSignage has created a more connected campus experience despite the platform's growth over five years. He noted that the system remains intuitive and manageable for various university teams.

A notable outcome has been the progressive adoption of the platform by individual departments. Using NowSignage's access tags functionality, teams like catering services can now independently manage only the screens, playlists, and schedules relevant to their operations. Mark Sargison, assistant director of IT infrastructure, highlighted that contrary to initial expectations, departments required minimal training and found the system naturally intuitive. The university has been using NowSignage since 2021 and continues to recommend it to peer institutions.

Looking ahead, Chester is expanding its signage footprint with outdoor displays, including a large LED screen being installed outside a new campus building. This addition will support both informational signage and live event streaming, effectively extending campus communications beyond indoor spaces.