Start with the job
Before choosing hardware or templates, write down the one action or understanding each screen should create. A menu board sells. A reception screen reassures. A production board aligns. Trying to do all three at once usually does none well.
Choose the right screen
Brightness, viewing distance, orientation, and operating hours matter more than a premium badge. Pair the display with inexpensive Android hardware you can replace easily and manage remotely.
Design for distance
Use fewer words, stronger contrast, and one unmistakable hierarchy. If the headline cannot be understood in two seconds from the expected viewing distance, simplify it.
Schedule the day
A useful screen changes with the room. Map breakfast, peak hours, events, closing, and exceptions before building content. The schedule is part of the design.
Plan for failure
Assume the network will drop and somebody will pull the plug. Cache media locally, auto-launch after reboots, and make playback skip bad files instead of freezing.