Why High Schools Are Moving to Software-Driven Scoreboards

Simple, Powerful, and Affordable for the This Generation of Student Athletes

The Case for an Upgrade

Many high school stadiums and arenas are still running on old scoreboard systems that rely on bulky, metal-box controllers—often needing a seasoned volunteer just to operate it. These scoreboards were built to be “one-size-fits-all,” but that usually means they can’t display the sport-specific details fans and players expect today. On top of that, because the system is hardware-based and aging, schools often face expensive repairs, long waits for service, and the reality that much of the equipment is out of warranty.

But the landscape is changing—high schools now have a software-based solution that’s easy, powerful, and affordable. 

The Limitations of Old, Traditional Scoreboards

Traditional scoreboards that have no LED videoboard have limitations: 

• Limited flexibility—you can’t switch scoreboard layouts to show relevant information.
• Maintenance heavy—it’s expensive to pay a provider to service, and the wait times are usually long.
• Lack of versatility—you miss out on the opportunity to further support your community and academic development. 
  
  

Choosing to upgrade your scoreboard isn’t a cosmetic decision; it’s a way to improve community engagement with a simple, powerful, and affordable solution. 

Why You Should Choose Digital Scoreboards for Your High School

For many high schools, digital scoreboards seem mistakenly more costly. While it is an investment, it’s worth the cost and can provide a return on your investment. Scoreboard software is: 

• Affordable—cloud-based software actually reduces your hardware costs, without sacrificing reliability and dependability.
• Simple—scoring from an iPad and Tablet with an easy-to-use app makes operating the scoreboard doable (even with limited experience).
• Powerful—choosing to go with a software-based solution means you’ll have more options for engaging fans and students with exciting content.
• Versatile—this isn’t an athletic investment, it’s an academic one. Your display can be used for so much more than the score. Host community events, presentations, and teach students valuable life skills.
  
  

Meet Advanced Scoring & Production

ScoreVision’s Advanced Scoring and Production solution, through ScoreVisionSE, brings the power of a digital scoreboard to schools that thought it wasn’t possible.

What is it?
Advanced Scoring and Production is a software-driven solution for scoring and media production on LED Scoreboards and TV displays—no bulky control boxes required.

Key Benefits:

• Simple scoring apps for each sport. 
• Powerful production to engage fans. 
• Easy management via the Cloud (manage from anywhere).  
• Minimal hardware and reliable support. 
• Built for schools with tight budgets and busy athletic departments.

Whether it’s a freshman football game or a Varsity rivalry, it’s a modern scoreboard that adapts to your needs. 

What Facilities Directors Should Know

For facilities leaders, the move to a digital scoreboard offers long-term advantages:

• Lower maintenance costs than fixed-digit alternatives
• Consistent systems across schools make training and support easier
• A single platform for managing all your displays
  
  

It’s not just a scoreboard—ScoreVision is one platform communicating and connecting your community on campus..

Supporting Career Technical Education Programs

ScoreVisionSE makes it easy to bring digital media technology into the classroom. 

• Give students the opportunity to create content for the scoreboard—including photographs, motion graphics, graphics, and video content. 
• Encourage students to become game day operators for the production side of the experience.
• Help students understand business by encouraging them to help develop a sponsorship program.

A Real World Example: Ferndale High School

One school in Washington adopted Advanced Scoring and Production in their indoor and outdoor facilities—and the impact has been powerful:

They started a CTE Program. After installing ScoreVision, Ferndale now offers students a scoreboard media course where they learn about creating content and how to run a game day experience.

It’s creating memories. Other schools have taken notice and it’s making the game day experience more connected and memorable even for the students who are on the visiting team. 

It’s easier to manage. Brian shared with us “The great thing about ScoreVision is setting up seasons, uploading teams, scheduling games, and importing rosters—they can all be done through a cloud-interface. Basically, wherever I have internet access and a laptop.” 

Budgeting and Funding Options

If at this point you’re wondering how your school can pay for an upgrade—you’re not alone. You have options:

• Third-Party Media Representatives—ScoreVision works with trusted third-parties that help you purchase your scoreboards, while starting a new advertising program to generate revenue. 
• Technology and facilities grants—you can often apply these to new software-driven upgrades, especially if there is an academic opportunity where it's being used beyond sports (like a new CTE program.) 
• Your own sponsorship program—many schools are able to work with local sponsors to offset costs through advertising on the scoreboards. We’ve seen schools generate over $100,000 on average within their first year. 
  
  

Upgrading doesn’t have to be a financial burden—it can be a strategic investment.

Conclusion: Your Upgrade Starts Here

Modernizing your athletics Program isn’t just possible—it’s practical. With ScoreVision Advanced Scoring & Production, you can give students, staff, and families a professional-quality experience that is simple, powerful, and affordable.

Ready to learn more?