Florian Rotberg, CEO of invidis consulting and co-host of DSS Europe, unveils the keys to the future of digital signage. 

From May 21 to 23, the Hilton Munich Airport will host DSS Europe, the industry’s epicenter where cybersecurity, managed services, and artificial intelligence converge. This gathering, designed for strategic exchange and in-depth discussions, goes beyond a mere product fair and promises to redefine how companies communicate and connect with their audiences.

What makes DSS Europe so special within the digital signage sector?

DSS Europe, organized by invidis and ISE, stands out by prioritizing strategic debate over purely technological innovations. It’s not just about screen launches or visual demos, but about sharing experiences in an environment focused on decision-making, high-level networking, and truly market-driving discussions.

This year’s program introduces three major keynote tracks: cybersecurity, managed digital signage, and artificial intelligence. How do these themes fit into each day’s agenda?

We’ve structured it as follows:

• Day 1: We kick off with the Digital Signage Tech Forum, addressing the role of software and security risks in digital signage.
• Day 2: We examine the global digital signage landscape, with a special focus on the managed services model.
• Day 3: We dedicate the main session to artificial intelligence in signage: adaptive content, predictive maintenance, and ethical issues like privacy.

Additionally, we combine keynotes, roundtables, and informal gatherings to foster active participation.

Let’s talk about managed digital signage. What does it involve and why is it crucial this year?

It’s about applying the “managed services” concept—familiar in IT—to digital signage. Instead of companies building their own infrastructure (hardware, software, support), they can outsource installation, content scheduling, and ongoing management. This reduces capital costs, minimizes downtime, and delivers a much more predictable operation.

Artificial intelligence seems to be on everyone’s lips. What practical applications do we see at DSS Europe?

AI already enhances real-time message personalization, analyzes customer interactions, and optimizes device maintenance. At the summit, we showcase real use cases, live demos, and debate ethical boundaries: privacy, transparency, and the degree of automation in public spaces.

Besides these pillars, what other topics will stand out in Munich?

We cover advancements in display technologies, system architectures, and signage UI/UX. We also delve into data analytics, demonstrating how to turn metrics into effective strategies. Sector-specific sessions will focus on retail, transportation, education, and smart cities.

For a first-time attendee, how can they maximize their experience?

Start by exploring the official event app—available on iOS and Android—which uses AI to match you with sessions, speakers, and fellow attendees of interest. Then, plan your priorities but leave room for spontaneous networking: the best ideas often emerge over coffee or in the hallways.

This year the congress was extended to three days. Why that decision?

Demand exceeded our expectations, and we wanted space for deeper debates. Digital signage is rapidly expanding, and there’s much more to cover without rushing.

To conclude, what can attendees expect from the 2025 edition?

Our most ambitious agenda yet: over 100 speakers, 40 sessions, technology demos, and the invidis Strategy Awards. We’ll also unveil the invidis Yearbook 2025, the definitive guide to the state of digital signage. It’s an intense experience, both strategically and socially. See you at the Hilton Munich Airport from May 21 to 23!