Welcome to The Branding Signage and Technology podcast presented by The Howard Company! Each episode is unscripted and features new guests talking about best practices, trends, and questions surrounding branding signage and technology.
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In this episode of The Branding Signage and Technology Podcast, I welcome back Rod Clouser to discuss the critical question: when is the best time to upgrade your signage? We explore how effective signage acts as a silent salesperson, enhancing customer experience and driving sales. Rod shares insights on recognizing the signs that it’s time for an upgrade, whether through digital or printed graphics. We also address the hidden costs of maintaining outdated signage and how modern solutions can streamline operations across multiple locations. If you're evaluating your signage strategy, this con
In this episode of The Branding Signage and Technology Podcast, Brian chats with Koen from VOX AI about the revolutionary role of voice AI in drive-thru operations. They dive into a live demonstration, showcasing how voice AI enhances order accuracy and improves customer experience by quickly processing requests. Koen explains the technology's three-layered training approach, which includes integrating with communication and POS systems to create a tailored experience for each brand. They also discuss the significant benefits of utilizing AI, especially amidst labor shortages in the restaurant
Does voice AI actually take jobs away or is that the wrong way to look at it? The fear has always been that the moment you add voice AI, someone at the window loses their role. What we keep seeing is the opposite. The teams getting the most out of it are the ones who kept their people and moved them where they add more value, while the technology handles the repetitive part. It only works after you put real time into teaching it, which is the part most of the conversation skips. Brian and Iris get into how you plan for that, what NRA says about where things are heading, and why solving the cus
Every booth at NRA is fighting for the same eyes. So how do you decide what makes it into yours? Brian Ward shared his rule on part 1 of our one year anniversary podcast. He has more than 6 years worth of planning trade show booths for The Howard Company, with his fourth NRA opening next week.
There is a big difference between getting a c-store shopper to grab something extra versus interrupting a planned grocery trip. The signage strategies behind each are completely different and a lot more intentional than most people think. We just dropped a new podcast episode that gets into all of it. From what actually grabs attention the moment someone walks in, to outdoor techniques that pull people in before they even decide to go inside, to how loyalty programs and drive-thrus fit into the whole picture.
What is the hardest part of keeping your brand consistent across locations while still feeling local? We asked ourselves the same thing and ended up with a full podcast episode about it. Our design and engineering teams sat down to talk about what brand consistency actually looks like when you're managing signage and equipment across dozens or even hundreds of locations. And not just the big picture stuff. We also get into where local identity fits in and how brands can give individual locations a sense of community connection without losing the consistency customers depend on. A few things we
Not every technology trend belongs in your operation. The ones worth investing in solve a real business problem. Speed, ticket size, guest loyalty. That's where the conversation should start. From digital displays and order confirmation systems to voice AI and content management, we cover what it takes to build a digital solution that works for your brand.
Most operators guess what works on their menu boards. But you can test it. The Branding Signage and Technology Podcast tackles A/B testing with digital menu boards. Brian and Kelsey (one of our designers) are talking A/B testing, dayparting, and the neuroscience behind menu design that actually work.
OCS has become more and more of a drive-thru standard and operators who have it are seeing why. When wrong orders are hitting your food costs, slowing your line, and frustrating customers, Order Confirmation Systems are what close the gap. Watch this episode for the full picture: Features, ROI, and POS integration.
In this episode of The Branding Signage and Technology Podcast, I dive into the dynamics of generational values in business interactions, particularly in the restaurant and retail sectors. Joined by Craig from operations, Carter from engineering, and Kendra from purchasing, we explore what different generations prioritize when visiting businesses—from food quality and service to atmosphere and pricing. Our conversation reflects on how these values influence decision-making and customer loyalty, revealing the need for businesses to adapt to these diverse expectations. We also discuss the import
The creative team at The Howard Company discusses the best menu design practices seen through 2025, as well as suggestions for what should be left behind moving into 2026.
In this episode of The Branding Signage and Technology Podcast, I sit down with seasoned guests Eric and Jim Reeder to explore the vital role of technology in building customer trust. We dive deep into the benefits of commercial-grade displays, discussing how they outperform residential models in durability, warranty support, and performance. We also dissect the importance of active monitoring services that ensure your digital signage is always operational, minimizing downtime and maximizing customer engagement. Lastly, we'll touch on the potential risks of opting for lesser-quality displays a
In this episode of The Branding Signage and Technology Podcast, I sit down with Nick from our install team and Todd from our engineering group to explore the pivotal role of first impressions in branding, signage, and technology. We discuss how exterior branding elements influence customer decisions, the psychology behind color choices, and the importance of design simplicity. Our conversation delves into how effective signage can transform a mere storefront into an inviting destination and the technical considerations for ensuring visibility and impact. We also touch on innovative solutions l
How well does your team work together? On our newest episode of The Branding Signage and Technology podcast, we discuss why Marketing, IT, Operations, Construction, Design, and Executives should be working together on all projects relating to signage.
In this episode of The Branding Signage and Technology Podcast, I sit down with Grant and Nick from The Howard Company to explore the intricate science of drive-thru stacking. We delve into what drive-thru stacking is and why it plays a crucial role in restaurant efficiency and customer experience. Grant, our regional vice president of sales, shares insights on how early planning can ensure compliance with local regulations, while Nick, our installation manager, discusses the complexities of converting existing structures to accommodate drive-thrus. We also touch on leveraging waiting time for
On this episode of The Branding Signage and Technology podcast, we discuss NACS 2025 and how to strategically invite customers from the pump into your store using branding signage and technology.
Making it easy for customers to order isn't just good service, it's smart business. On this episode of The Branding Signage and Technology podcast, we share practical menu design tips that highlight the items you want to sell, speed up decision-making, and keep customers coming back. You will learn how the slightest design changes can make a big impact on sales and the customer experience.
Kiosks and voice AI are designed to help your business grow, not just assist with labor shortages. On this episode of The Branding Signage and Technology podcast, we discuss how kiosks and voice AI drive sales, even with a full staff.
Our designers discuss the importance of high-quality food images on menu boards.
The winner of our first National Drive-Thru Day contest is... announced in our newest episode of The Branding Signage and Technology podcast!
Did you miss the National Restaurant Association Show and need a brief recap? In our newest episode of The Branding Signage and Technology podcast, the team sits down to discuss trends, takeaways, and exciting moments from this year's show.
Does graphic fulfillment stress you out? Let us make it easy for you! Our newest episode of The Branding Signage and Technology podcast highlights how brand management can simplify your operations.
National Drive-Thru Day is next month and we are searching for the country's best drive-thru of 2025! Is it yours? In our newest 'Branding Signage & Technology Podcast' episode, we introduce an exciting contest that promotes your brand whether you win or lose.
Check out our episode of The Branding Signage and Technology podcast, where we preview The National Restaurant Show, including what to expect from The Howard Company, emerging trends, and what excites our team the most.
