Forum Discussion
Digital Signage with PowerBi Interactivity
- 8 months ago
Hi, LivOn123 ... thanks for explaining the additional details—that really helps.
Given your requirements:
- You want an app running directly on the TVs for security reasons (no laptops plugged in).
- The app should load automatically each morning without manual browser setup.
- It needs to support full Power BI interactivity (clicking visuals, slicers, drill-through).
- And also handle standard signage features like slides.
Here’s what I’d recommend:
Why OptiSigns falls short
OptiSigns is great for auto-loading content, but as you’ve seen, it doesn’t support interactive Power BI reports—it only displays static dashboards or refreshes them periodically.
Best Approach for Your Scenario
The most reliable way to achieve this is to use Power BI Embedded inside a custom kiosk-style app that runs on your signage player (Windows or Android). This gives you:
- Full interactivity with Power BI visuals.
- Automatic loading when the TV turns on (just like OptiSigns).
- No need to manually open browsers every day.
- Compliance with your security requirements.
You’d essentially install an app on each TV or signage device that:
- Hosts the embedded Power BI report.
- Cycles through slides or other content as needed.
Alternatives to Explore
If building a custom app isn’t ideal, you can look at platforms like:
- NoviSign or ScreenCloud: They support embedding web apps and can auto-load content. Interactivity depends on touchscreen compatibility and how they handle authentication.
- TelemetryTV: Similar concept—worth checking if they allow interactive sessions.
Security Note
Avoid “Publish to Web” for sensitive data—it’s public. Instead, use Power BI Embedded or secure Power BI Service authentication within the app.
Disclaimer: This message was drafted with the assistance of Microsoft Copilot to ensure clarity and professionalism.
Hello LivOn123
I just joined the forum looking for content similiar to yourself.
We use NowSignage - https://www.nowsignage.com/2024/07/microsoft-power-bi-signage
Works brilliantly and was one of the first CMS to have a direct API integration with BI.
As it host's live data, its fully interactive if you are using a touch screen to display the CMS.
Hi Billerg!
Thank you for your response!
Do you find NowSignage easy to use? Does it support large PowerBi reports? Is there any loading delay? Do you use any specific hardware to run it?
Additionally, do you know if it runs powerpoints or images additionally to PowerBI? or if it's just PowerBI reports?
Thank you!!!