Match

The assignment

We've been allowed to outfit Match stores with both audio and visuals, and it has to look the part. You can't just zip-tie some stuff at random in classy stores like this, and that's just how we like it.

They need digital signage in many different locations and a variety of sizes. The audio needs to sound crisp and even look crisp to match their clean store design.

A primary goal is to replace posters previously made from cardboard or fabric to save time and money by doing them digitally. This way, we also bring some life and attention into the room by supporting video content in these prime, easy-to-spot locations.

We discovered they change these posters quite frequently, often several times per day, so we need to provide an easy way for the local staff to manage content themselves.

The solution

A large portrait screen or LED totem up against the windows gets the attention of those passing by. Behind the counter, a beautiful 85" or 98" portrait screen creates a focal point that tells you where you should go to get help or pay for your new shirt.

You'll also get directions from the prominent digital posters - 43" portrait screens that serve as a kind of headline for each section of clothes. If the staff wants to change content, maybe run a 30% discount on a certain brand; we provide an easy-to-understand solution for them to make changes using smartphones and QR codes.

Even in the changing rooms, you'll find small 24" screens that tip customers about specials or to join the customer club for a discount.

The audio system is pretty bare-bones, with the EAS-CP-V input module keeping it simple by reducing the only control you need/get to that big volume knob. In larger stores, we might do a center cluster with a time delay on the other speakers, but apart from that, the focus is more on both sounding and looking sharp.

Benefits

We're proud of how on-brand and non-techy the technical parts of Match stores look and feel in the final solution. We're not there to stand out but to blend in, elevate the vibe low-key, and bring focus to the products.

Also, people working with clothes shouldn't have to handle complicated interfaces. If the end users can't understand and use our systems, we've missed the mark. Keeping it simple is the key to a good experience long term:

• A single physical volume knob controls the sound.
• A single QR code gives control of the screens.

Minimalistic, sure, but that's how it should be.