Modern Justice: How Courthouses Are Embracing Digital Signage to Enhance Access and Efficiency

Here’s an in-depth look at how modern courthouses are transforming into efficient, accessible facilities through digital signage and interactive kiosks:

Digital Wayfinding in Action

St. Louis Circuit Court’s Transformation

• In April 2025, the 22nd Judicial Circuit Court of Missouri unveiled a digital directory system at its Clyde S. Cahill and Mel Carnahan courthouses.

• Powered by Navigo® software from Interactive Touchscreen Solutions (ITS, Inc.), the system features large interactive screens displaying real-time courtroom locations, schedules, and department info—making it easy for visitors and staff to navigate complex layouts.

• ITS describes the installation as part of a broader initiative to streamline access and reduce confusion, delivering both clarity and convenience.

Interactive & Touchless Features

Fulton County Courthouse Enhancements

• Fulton County has rolled out digital signage projects across its courthouses, deploying touchless wayfinding kiosks in corridors, elevator lobbies, and meeting spaces.

• These displays offer English–Spanish translation and step-by-step maps to specific destinations.

• Visitors can “scan-to-mobile” directions directly to their phones, minimizing touchpoints and boosting hygiene—especially important amid COVID‑era adaptations.

Comprehensive Digital Signage Platforms

Navigo’s Suite for Public Buildings

• Navigo® delivers an integrated range of solutions—digital signage, video walls, touchscreen kiosks, visitor management, pre‑screening, elevator signage, and resource scheduling—all tailored for government and courthouse environments.

• Crucially, its signage integrates with court docket systems, showing live hearing schedules and courtroom assignments in real time .

• Interactive kiosks guide visitors through security procedures, building rules, hours, and more—all available in multiple languages.

Benefits for Courthouse Modernization

1. Improved Visitor Experience & Efficiency

   • Touchscreens and mobile integrations reduce reliance on staff assistance and printed materials.

   • Audio, multilingual support, and scanning features enhance access for diverse visitors.

2. Greater Safety & Accessibility

   • Wayfinding systems reduce congestion during emergencies; signage can instantly switch to alert mode.

   • ADA and Section 508 compliance—through large text, voice guides, accessible heights, and screen readers—ensure inclusivity.

3. Cost-Effective & Dynamic Content

   • Digital signage is more flexible and affordable over time versus printed materials.

   • Cloud platforms allow remote updates and schedule integration—keeping content timely and relevant.

4. Staff and Security Integration

   • Visitor check-in, badge printing, and pre-screening reduce administrative burdens and enhance overall security.

   • Tight integration with docket systems helps avoid manual errors and duplicate data entry .

Best Practices & Considerations

• Phased Implementation: Large facilities may rollout by building or floor, as Fulton County demonstrates .

• Ensure Accessibility: Kiosks must meet ADA/Section 508 standards in design, including voice guidance and tactile controls.

• Content Integration: Real-time docket syncing is vital—digital tools that connect with court systems enhance accuracy and trust .

• Touch vs. Touchless: Offering both encourages flexibility—touchless for health safety, interactive for quick info access.

The Courtroom of Tomorrow

Digital signage is no longer optional—it’s integral to modern courthouse infrastructure. By combining interactive directories, real-time docket displays, touchless wayfinding, and inclusive design, courthouses are:

• Enhancing visitor experience

• Streamlining operations

• Strengthening accessibility

• Boosting safety and preparedness

• Saving time and costs

ITS’s Navigo® deployments in St. Louis and Fulton County exemplify how digital transformation in justice settings is unfolding—courthouses are becoming smarter, more intuitive, and welcoming places for all.

Courts considering such an upgrade should assess infrastructure readiness, compliance mandates, and integration pathways. With the right partner, digital signage can turn an intimidating courthouse into a navigable, user-friendly environment.