Glossary A–ZLetter S
Schedule
The schedule defines in the management software which playlist or content runs on which screens, on which days and at which times.
It is the technical implementation of what has been planned in terms of content.
A schedule can be simple, such as a programme that always runs, or consist of several layers: a different programme on weekdays than at weekends, the lunch menu at midday, a Christmas loop in December, a notice about changed opening hours on public holidays. Some systems plan in calendar form with blocks, others via time windows on individual playlist items. In Germany public holidays differ from one federal state to another, which the schedule should take into account.
Operators should check what the screen shows in gaps where no entry applies and which entry wins when two overlap. The schedule follows the player's clock, so the correct time, time zone and daylight saving changes are prerequisites. A schedule controls what runs; whether the screen is switched on at all is governed by the operating hours. An overview showing what runs at a given moment helps with checking.