Playlists Overview
Playlists control what content is shown on your screens (players/devices) and when it plays.
In this article, you will learn how to create playlists, add and arrange content, schedule playback, and manage how playlists are distributed across players.
What is a Playlist?
A Playlist is a collection of content (images, videos, templates, or URLs) that is assigned to players.
You can arrange content in a specific order, schedule when it should play, and decide where it should be displayed.
Playlists are the core tool for controlling your digital signage experience.
Playlist Structure
- A playlist contains one or more media items
- Content is played in sequence or based on playlist mode
- Playlists are assigned to players (screens/devices)
Playlist Status
Playlists can have different statuses:
- Published
The playlist is active and assigned to players. - Expired
The playlist has passed its end date. - Promoted
The playlist is awaiting admin approval.
Playlist Sidekick
The Sidekick provides detailed information and controls for a playlist.
It includes:
- Path – The folder location (clickable)
- Status – Current playlist state
- Scheduling & Targeting – Overview of when and where it plays
Scheduling Overview
Hover over the calendar icon to view scheduled play times.
Frequently used sections such as Targets and Schedules are expanded by default.
Create a New Playlist
- Click Create new playlist
- Enter a name
- Click Create
Add Content to a Playlist
- Click Add + in the Sidekick
- Select content from your Library
- Click Add
You can:
- Select multiple files
- Upload new content
- Add URLs
Arrange Playlist Content
Rearrange content using drag-and-drop.
If content has a different aspect ratio, it will still play but be scaled to fit.
To change layout:
- Click the settings (cogwheel)
- Select a new layout
Manage Content (Three-Dot Menu)
Each item has options to:
- Edit media – Applies changes to all playlists using the file
- Edit image or URL – Adjust display duration
- Schedule content – Set playback times
- Exclude – Remove content for specific players
Note:
Shared files cannot be edited, and scheduled files cannot play outside their defined time.
Content Tags
Changes to content are tracked using tags:
- New – Recently added
- Modified – Edited or rearranged
- Removed – Deleted from playlist
- Excluded – Hidden for specific players
Save or Cancel Changes
Changes are not saved until you click:
- Create
- Update
- Force player update
To cancel changes, click X and confirm.
Playlist Settings
Scheduling a Playlist
There are three scheduling modes:
- Always
Plays continuously. - Scheduled
Plays during specific times. - Disabled
The playlist is inactive.
Scheduling Options
You can define:
- Start and end date
- Specific days
- Play times
You can also create multiple schedules.
Targeting Players
To assign a playlist:
- Click + Add Groups
- Select players or groups
- Click Continue
Playlist Priority
Priority determines which playlist is played.
Levels:
- Highest
- High
- Normal (default)
- Low
- Lowest
Higher priority playlists override lower ones.
Playlist Mode
Controls how playlists interact:
- Grouped
Plays in order (default). - Shuffled
Mixes content with other playlists. - On-Demand
Plays only when triggered manually.
Playback Logic
Players (screens/devices) decide what to play based on priority and mode.
Transition Rules
Higher → Lower Priority
The current content finishes before switching.
Lower → Higher Priority
The player switches immediately.
Playlist Expiration
When the end date passes, the playlist is marked as Expired and moved to the bottom of the list.
Finalize Playlist
Click Create or Force player update to apply changes.
Common Questions about Playlists
What is a playlist in Engage CMS?
A playlist is a collection of content that controls what is shown on your screens and when it plays.
How do I add content to a playlist?
Click Add +, select content from the Library, and click Add.
Why is my playlist not showing on the screen?
The playlist may not be scheduled, assigned to a player, or may be overridden by a higher priority playlist.
What happens if two playlists overlap?
The playlist with the higher priority will be played.
Can I schedule individual files in a playlist?
Yes. You can schedule content within a playlist, but it must be within the playlist’s schedule.
Why can’t I edit a file in my playlist?
The file may be from a shared folder or you may not have permission to edit it.
What does “Expired” mean?
The playlist has passed its scheduled end date and is no longer active.
What is playlist priority?
Playlist priority determines which playlist is shown when multiple playlists are scheduled at the same time.
What is the difference between playlist mode and priority?
- Priority decides which playlist plays
- Mode controls how content behaves within and between playlists
How do I update a playlist?
Make your changes and click Update or Force player update.
Why can’t I exclude content in my playlist?
The Exclude Content feature may not be enabled for your workspace.
This feature allows you to exclude specific media from playing on certain players.
If you need access, please contact ZetaDisplay Customer Care to enable it.
Why can’t I set playlist priority?
The Playlist Priority feature may not be enabled in your workspace.
Playlist priority allows you to control which playlist overrides others when schedules overlap.
To enable this feature, contact ZetaDisplay Customer Care.
Why can’t I edit or manage certain playlist settings?
Some playlist settings depend on:
- your user role permissions
- enabled workspace features
If options are missing or disabled, you may not have access to that functionality.
Why can’t I assign playlists to certain players?
You may not have permission to access those players, or they may belong to another workspace.
Check your user role or contact your administrator.
How do I enable additional playlist features?
Some advanced features (such as priority, exclusion, or advanced scheduling) are not enabled by default.
To request access, contact ZetaDisplay Customer Care.