In today’s fast-paced cannabis retail environment, digital menu boards are more than a trend—they’re a core feature of customer engagement, product education, and operational efficiency. But dispensary owners face a critical decision when it comes to choosing between touchscreen and static digital boards. Each option has its pros and cons depending on your store’s layout, budget, traffic flow, and customer base. So, which is best for your dispensary? Let’s dive into the comparison.
Understanding the Basics
Static Digital Boards display menus, promotions, and announcements on screens mounted throughout the dispensary. These boards are non-interactive and usually managed remotely via software that pushes updated content from a central dashboard.
Touchscreen Digital Boards, on the other hand, allow users to interact directly with the screen. Customers can browse strains, filter by product category, view effects, and even get recommendations—all at their own pace.
Advantages of Static Digital Boards
- Cost-Effective Setup
Static boards generally require less investment. There’s no need for rugged touch hardware, and the software is typically more straightforward. - Low Maintenance
With no need for physical interaction, these boards face less wear and tear. They’re ideal for high-traffic dispensaries that need reliable, consistent display performance without much upkeep. - Great for Branding & Promotions
These boards shine when it comes to showcasing visually rich content like brand logos, seasonal deals, and flash sales. They help maintain a curated vibe throughout the retail space. - Fast Browsing for Experienced Shoppers
For customers who already know what they want, static boards provide a quick reference point that doesn’t require time-consuming interaction.
Advantages of Touchscreen Digital Boards
- Interactive Experience
Touchscreens are perfect for educating newer customers. With the ability to explore product information, terpene profiles, and consumption methods, they enhance the discovery process. - Queue Reduction
When paired with order-ahead functionality, touchscreens allow customers to place orders directly, reducing the wait time and easing pressure on budtenders during peak hours. - Personalized Recommendations
Some systems can be integrated with loyalty programs or user profiles, allowing for curated recommendations and past order history. - Accessibility
Touchscreens offer multi-language support, zoom-in features for the visually impaired, and audio cues—making them more inclusive.
Key Considerations Before Choosing
1. Customer Demographics:
Are your shoppers mostly seasoned consumers or first-timers? A younger, tech-savvy crowd may appreciate touchscreen interactivity, while experienced buyers might prefer a quick glance at static boards.
2. Store Size and Layout:
Touchscreens work well in larger stores where customers have space to interact without blocking foot traffic. Smaller dispensaries might benefit more from static boards to maintain flow and visibility.
3. Staffing Model:
If you rely on fewer budtenders, touchscreens can serve as a helpful supplement, offering self-service capabilities. If you prioritize guided consultation, static boards can reinforce product awareness while your team leads the customer journey.
4. Budget and Maintenance:
Touchscreens come with a higher upfront cost and require regular cleaning and occasional technical support. Static boards are lower maintenance but lack the immersive features some dispensaries want to offer.
Which One Is Best?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best solution often lies in a hybrid approach—using static digital boards for promotional displays and high-level menus, while integrating a few strategically placed touchscreens for product deep dives or self-service ordering. This mix allows dispensaries to cater to both efficiency and education.
Whether you’re upgrading your tech stack or opening a new location, the choice between touchscreen and static boards should align with your brand identity, operational flow, and most importantly, your customer experience goals.