Best practices for interactive display setup

Setting up interactive displays well, also called interactive exhibit installation, means visitors can use them without help and they keep working all show. These best practices cover placement, hardware, content and checks.

This guide is part of the interactive trade show technology series.

Where should interactive screens be placed?

Place touchscreens at standing height, with the middle of the screen around chest-to-eye level, near the front but not blocking the entrance. Leave space for two or three people to gather. Provide a stool, such as a bar stool, for longer sessions.

How should screens be mounted?

On a sturdy stand, wall mount or furniture piece rated for the screen's weight, with cables routed out of reach. Tablets need locking stands.

How should content be prepared?

Store content locally, run in kiosk mode so visitors can't exit the app, keep menus shallow and make the first screen say what to do. For a furniture catalogue: categories, then products, then a button to request spec sheets or open a trade account.

How do you secure power and connectivity?

Order enough power, manage cables neatly, prefer wired connections and keep an offline fallback. See troubleshooting interactive displays.

How do you make displays accessible?

Keep key controls within reach of seated users, use large text and high contrast and avoid relying on sound alone.

How do you validate that it works?

Watch three people use it before the show opens. If they hesitate or ask for help, simplify the first screen.

Which organizations cover AV standards?

AVIXA, which runs the InfoComm show, publishes AV standards and training for installers.

Final checklist

• Screen secure and at the right height
• Content offline and in kiosk mode
• Cables hidden and taped
• Spare cables and adapters packed
• Staff briefed on how to use and reset it

How many interactive displays does a stand need?

Usually one or two. One screen or kiosk for browsing and one tablet for staff to show details and capture leads covers most stands. More screens add cost and complexity without adding conversations.

How should content be designed for touch?

Use large buttons, few words, clear categories and a visible "start again" button. Design for a visitor who has never used the screen before and has two minutes. Test on the actual screen size.

How do you keep displays clean and working all show?

Wipe screens each morning and during quiet periods, check that kiosk mode is still active, keep chargers connected and log any issues for the team.

How do you capture leads from a display?

Add a short form or "email me this" button that collects consent, or have staff scan badges after showing the display. Make sure data syncs to your CRM after the show.

How do you design the first screen?

The first screen decides whether visitors engage. Use a large, simple headline ("Browse 1,700+ designs" or "See it in your room"), three or four big buttons for categories or actions and an obvious way to start. Avoid login screens, long introductions and small text. Test it with someone who hasn't seen it before.

How do you choose hardware for interactive displays?

Choose commercial-grade screens with high brightness for bright halls, and locking stands for tablets.

How do you plan the interaction around staff?

Position interactive displays where staff can step in naturally: beside the conversation area or next to the hero product. Staff should invite visitors to try the display, then take over the conversation when interest is clear.

How do you protect visitor data?

Collect only what you need, explain how it will be used and get consent before adding people to marketing lists. Make sure the device doesn't store data in a way other visitors can see.