byAlma Abell

When you operate a business, a park, or a mall, it is important for you to make sure your customers or patrons know exactly where everything is. When you are trying to direct patrons to different attractions or stores, you need to make it clear where you would like for them to go. Customers also want to be able to find what they are looking for without much hassle. A custom outdoor information kiosk is one way to direct them. You are probably familiar with them from their use in malls or parks.

Maps

Maps are one of the most common uses for a custom outdoor information kiosk. You will typically see these sorts of maps at parks. Typically, they will feature an overhead view of the entire park. They are known for featuring the “you are here” designations. If the park is very large, each section typically has its own kiosk as well. These will normally feature a trail map that directs you through the wooded parts of the trails.

In the past, these maps were typically paper maps on wooden kiosks. This is inefficient for a few reasons. Firstly, a paper map is susceptible to the elements. Rain, snow, sleet, and hail will completely destroy a paper map. The solution to this would be to coat the paper with plastic. This poses a problem because plastic is not biodegradable. If the map falls down or is lost, it will just become litter. Instead of a coated paper map, you could put a glass case around the map. This has shortcomings as well. A glass or Plexiglas container for the map is an added expense, all to protect a piece of paper. Also, that glass or Plexiglas can be broken, which then becomes a safety hazard. Lastly, glass will not protect the map from fading in the sunlight.

Electronic

The best solution is to move to a custom outdoor information kiosk that is optimized for surviving the elements. An electronic device that is optimized for outdoor use will have a bright display for being easily seen in the direct sun. These devices are also superior to paper maps because they are often touchscreen. A touchscreen kiosk allows patrons to interact with the device. That creates an enhanced experience. Also, they can be optimized to be full-service stations that allow customers to call for help, contact technical support, ask questions, and search for features.

By reducing the amount of time customers spend feeling uninformed, you increase the amount of time they spend enjoying your facilities. If your facilities are a mall, then they spend more time shopping. If you are operating a park, that means they will be spending more time enjoying the outdoors.