In my career as a digital signage and software industry veteran, I’ve had the opportunity to explore a myriad of digital signage templates.

Each template and platform comes with its own set of pros and cons, catering to various business needs and creative visions.

After extensive exploration, one platform consistently stands out for me: HootBoard.

I’ll share my insights into some of the best free templates available for digital signage and why HootBoard tops my list.

1) HootBoard

Why it’s a great choice – Functional versatility

• Wide array of content presentation options
• Interactive capabilities
• Direct content sharing to smartphones

Link: HootBoard

From my personal experience, HootBoard is unparalleled when it comes to digital signage solutions. The platform excels not just in the variety of templates it offers but in the functionality and creative freedom these templates provide.

Whether it’s for marketing, retail, educational institutions, or special events, HootBoard empowers users to create dynamic, professional content that engages and informs. The professional templates are extraordinary.

Features like QR codes, social media post integration, and the ability to include news feeds transform digital signs into interactive hubs. What truly sets HootBoard apart is its limitless application; your creativity is the only boundary.

2) Yodeck

Why it’s a great choice – Offers smart templates

• Easy to customize and edit
• Supports images, videos, and social media posts

Link: Yodeck

Yodeck provides an easy-to-use platform with smart templates that are perfect for businesses looking to publish professional content quickly.

The free digital signage templates support various media types and integration, making it simple to customize displays with relevant information, from price lists to social media updates.

3) Canva

Why it’s a great choice – User-friendly drag and drop interface

• Access to free stock photos and pre-designed templates
• Versatile for creating menus, logos, and more

Link: Canva

Canva is renowned for its simplicity and vast library of templates, including those suitable for digital signage. With a drag and drop interface, it’s incredibly easy for anyone to create eye-catching displays. The platform’s access to free stock photos and customization options make it a go-to for designing everything from retail menus to brand logos.

4) Screenly OSE (Open Source Edition)

Screenly OSE presents a unique option for those comfortable with a bit more DIY approach. It’s an open-source digital signage software that offers flexibility and customization through various templates. This option is best for users looking for a hands-on approach to their digital signage system, offering a chance to tailor every aspect of their display.

5) Adobe Spark

Adobe Spark stands out for its wide selection of free templates that can be adapted for digital signage. Its strength lies in the ability to create visually appealing content effortlessly. The platform is not solely dedicated to digital signage but its templates can significantly enhance any digital signage content strategy.

6) PosterMyWall

PosterMyWall is exceptional for marketing and promotional digital signage content. It specializes in high-quality, customizable templates. The platform’s freemium model allows users to access many templates for free, perfect for businesses looking to elevate their marketing without extensive costs.

7) Crello

Crello offers a wealth of free templates ideal for creating engaging digital signage. Like Canva, it provides an intuitive design experience with a focus on visual content, making it an excellent choice for businesses aiming to captivate their audience.

8) Piktochart

Piktochart is a tool originally designed for infographics that has found its way into the digital signage space. Its templates can be utilized to convey information in an engaging and digestible format, ideal for educational institutions or corporate environments.

9) Visme

Visme completes this list by offering templates that blend functionality with aesthetics. The platform is versatile, catering to a broad spectrum of digital signage needs from interactive displays to informational boards.

There are Many Great Free Choices, But I Like These the Best

While other platforms offer fine templates for digital signage, HootBoard’s extensive features, including the ability to make content interactive and easily shareable, truly stand out.

In my years of experience, I have found that HootBoard’s capabilities allow for imagination to guide the creation process, far beyond the constraints typically found in digital signage templates.

What I Look For in Free Digital Signage Templates

When selecting free digital signage templates, my criteria focus on customizable features and sleek design, ensuring an easy-to-use experience that can cater to a multitude of industries.

I prioritize templates that offer a professional finish, allowing for the creation of custom templates that perfectly align with brand identity.

The ideal platform offers an extensive library of more templates, enabling users to find exactly what they need for their digital signage displays.

Versatility is key, with templates that can adapt to various screens, from large digital signage displays to smaller, more intimate screens.

Essential elements such as service promotion, engaging customers, and showcasing menus or icons must be easily customizable.

The software should provide a seamless download process, with a site layout that facilitates quick edits to slides, incorporation of animations, and customization of sales messages or employee information.

The goal is to deploy digital signs that not only attract attention but also enhance the viewer’s experience through well-designed, customized content.