Why Customize the Lock Screen on Workplace PCs?

Did you know that the Windows lock screen on your company workstations can become a valuable tool for internal communication, cybersecurity reinforcement, and even corporate culture? Too often overlooked, it’s actually the first screen your employees see when starting work. It appears at boot-up and when waking from sleep mode, with no applications blocking its visibility. This screen is inevitably seen numerous times by all employees throughout the workday. 

That’s exactly why you shouldn’t let this space go to waste—quite the opposite!  Integrate it into your internal communication strategy and truly make a difference.

Lock Screen and Desktop Wallpaper: Two Powerful Internal Communication Tools

Just like the desktop wallpaper (also known as background or desktop image), the lock screen is a prime space for internal messaging: 

• Reach employees multiple times a day effortlessly: The lock screen is seen at every system start-up, as well as during voluntary or automatic locks throughout the day. It’s not uncommon for it to appear over fifteen times daily. This repetition makes it a highly effective communication channel that no one can miss. 

• Strengthen your brand image and create a professional look: If your workstations are visible to clients or the public, a branded lock screen can serve as a consistent visual identity tool—like digital signage. When screens are locked, they reflect your brand. This also immerses employees in your company culture from the very first moment they arrive. 

• Boost employee engagement, both on-site and remote: Internal communication plays a key role in engagement. Don’t miss this opportunity to reach everyone, regardless of their location—on-site, remote, or traveling. Unlike traditional on-site digital screens, the lock screen follows your employees everywhere. 

More Advantages to Communicating via the Lock Screen

While customizing desktop wallpapers is interesting, targeting the lock screen can often be simpler and even more effective: 

• Non-intrusive communication: Unlike desktop backgrounds, which users often personalize, the lock screen is rarely customized by employees. This makes your communications feel less invasive. 

• An undisturbed visual space: The lock screen displays images clearly, with no open windows or icons to clutter the view. Its full-image format increases message visibility and impact. 

In Short: Don’t Let This Space Go Unused! Transform the lock screen into a powerful and attention-grabbing internal communication channel. 

What Messages Can You Share Through the Lock Screen?

Any internal communication is well-suited for the lock screen. Think of it as a visual reminder board—ideal for supporting daily initiatives or larger campaigns like training or awareness. 

Create concise, visually engaging messages and update them regularly. This helps retaining attention and maximize effectiveness. 

Here are a few examples of relevant themes: 

• Company Events & Calendars: Share upcoming events each month—internal (team building, annual meetings, CEO messages) or external (tradeshows, webinars). HR updates also fit well here. 

• Cybersecurity Training: Lock screens are a powerful ally in training campaigns. Repeating messages helps reinforce security best practices. For example, run a themed “focus week” each month on topics like passwords, phishing, software updates, file sharing, or storage rules. 

• Eco-responsibility & Sustainability: Use this high-visibility screen to encourage eco-actions. Share consumption metrics, highlight progress, and remind staff of good habits (energy savings, printing behaviour, turning off lights, etc.). 

• CSR Initiatives: Use the lock screen to share your CSR commitments and success stories, boosting employee pride and sense of belonging. Whether you're supporting a cause, installing rooftop beehives, or adding EV charging stations—say it loud and proud! 

• Seasonal Themes & Annual Highlights: Keep engagement high by tapping into seasonal or recurring themes—even if no internal event is planned. Use awareness days (e.g. Workplace Health Day) or holidays (New Year) to share relevant, prompt messages. 

• Customer-facing Screens? Think External Communication Too: Retail is a prime example, but many sectors have visible workstations left idle in public spaces. Use the lock screen to display current promotions or marketing content. 

How to Centrally Manage Lock Screen Customization?

Previously complex, lock screen customization is now much easier with centralized management tools. There’s no need to rely on IT teams or update workstations manually. 

Modern software solutions provide flexibility, empowering internal comms teams to manage messages independently. 

Channels, our push-communication solution, allows you to instantly or scheduled deploy “campaigns” to all workstations—or only specific groups, depending on your needs. With just a few clicks, you can: 

• Schedule communications in real-time or ahead of time. 

• Target distribution by department, floor, device type, etc. 

• Set communication priorities: Schedule a general message with low priority, while still allowing urgent or last-minute updates to appear with higher priority. 

Customizing lock screens means turning unused space into a smart, efficient internal media channel. Easy to implement, cost-effective, and often very well-received in terms of engagement and branding—it’s a small move with a substantial impact. So, what are you waiting for?