With the Ontario condo industry approaching 60 years of age, it might be surprising to realize that one of the top condo communication tools in use today is still the unassuming cork bulletin board.

Typically adorned with an often-outdated notice with teeny tiny type and the odd blast of bold red as a bid for attention, it’s a remarkably old-fashioned “device” that still tends to occupy the prime audience real estate on the property: the elevator.

Cork bulletin board notices can only be run one at a time, require a physical presence to change the notice, and largely tend to be ignored because many of the notices all look the same. Ignored notices are a communication breakdown leading to alienated residents, broken rules and rising costs.

But what if a simple shift – the adoption of digital display technology along with some creatively designed notices – could turn communication from an afterthought into a building’s superpower? It’s totally possible, and the payoff isn’t just capturing residents’ attention; it’s audience engagement, smoother workflows and perhaps best of all . . . big savings.

A Bit of Tech – Screens That Do More

Digital screens are an extremely effective communication tool. Placed in high-traffic areas like elevators and lobbies, they become a living noticeboard that updates instantly and grabs attention. It’s the one common information source that nearly all residents will see and they don’t need to tap, click, download, open or remember a login to see it. Just clear, timely info where people already are.

With the right setup, even one screen can turn passive communication into an active connection with your community, but setup is key.

Some tech tips for elevator screens:

• Use commercial grade screens designed to run 24/7.
• Hardwire the internet to avoid stalled out, frozen screens (elevator shafts are a hostile environment for WiFi).
• Surface-mounted screens are less expensive to replace than something recessed inside the car operating panel.
• Opt for ad-free screens to avoid distracting and/or alienating the audience.
• Consider including the cost of screen installations with capital projects; the additional cost is negligible and communicating a project’s progress ensures a smooth and successful outcome

For properties like townhouses, where an elevator screen isn’t an option, a virtual screen is possible via a URL link that residents can watch on their mobile device or desktop. While it requires a wee bit of effort on the part of the audience (they need to click on the link), a big upside is that everyone is getting their information from the same official source.

A Dash of Creativity – Make Messages Matter

It’s not just what you say; it’s how you say it. Instead of walls of text, think bold headlines, clean layouts, and just enough personality to make people look twice.

Notices that are clear, visual, and even a little witty don’t just get read – they get remembered. Creativity turns routine messages into moments that inform, engage, and even delight. And when messages land, something bigger happens – people start to feel connected. They smile in elevators, chat in hallways, and work together to achieve common goals (the Latin roots of the word “condominium” means “ownership together”).

Communication done well doesn’t just inform; it builds trust, sparks small moments of joy, and lays the foundation for a stronger “condo-munity.”

Add It Up – The Big Cost Savings

Better communication doesn’t just improve the vibe – it protects the condo corporation’s bottom line. A clear notice about proper garbage disposal can save $600 by preventing a jammed chute, and recycling tips can avoid fines or worse, the loss of city collection services which can be in the tens of thousands to replace. A reminder not to open a suite door to air out burned toast odours can avoid a $1,500 false fire alarm bill. A water “campaign” with tips on how to save water and prevent leaks can shave $1,000–$2,000 off monthly utility costs.

Keeping the peace and building condo-munity can avoid legal disputes and save hours of time better spent on more productive pursuits.

The math is simple: when residents are informed, buildings avoid unnecessary costs – and that adds up fast.

Brilliant Is Just the Beginning

What starts with a screen and a smart notice can grow into something much bigger – a connected, informed, and financially healthier condo. It’s not about adding more noise; it’s about making every message count. When tech and creativity work together, residents feel seen, problems get solved faster, and dollars stop slipping through the cracks.

Boring is expensive. Brilliant pays off.

Sue Langlois is Founder and CEO of DigiNotice Inc.