Continuing our series:  Ten Key Considerations for Exhibit Multimedia Success.

We wrote in previous submissions about updating content in a kiosk to keep it “fresh.”  Although this can be a bit of work and a commitment by a staff member, there are ways to keep content updated without doing much at all. 

Introducing Dynamic Content.

Dynamic content is information gathered from databases or other sources depending on user request.  Dynamic content is being used more and more on web sites to create customized pages and changing page data.  (NOTE: if you are interested in more information on dynamic content for your web site, give us a call)  When it comes to updating kiosk information, dynamic content is a great way to offer information that is updated by someone else (or something else).

The best example I can think of for using dynamic content on a kiosk is the display of weather information.  We have developed several kiosk programs that will either “pull” weather data from a local weather station (a piece  of  equipment located outside that measures weather data) or from online resources.  Your kiosk can be set up to display current weather conditions any time a user wants it.  Many people are interested in weather conditions and forecasts (look at the success of the Weather Channel) so this is a great way to offer up to the minute data.

There are many other ways to utilize dynamic content in a kiosk.  The web is a wealth of information and pulling data from web sites is relatively easy to do.  You can even include your web site on your kiosk if it is updated regularly.  You can also collect data and offer statistical information based on your users input.  For instance, you can run a program on your kiosk (or on the web) that asks visitors to post animal sightings and then have the kiosk program create charts or maps using the data.  You can ask survey questions and offer the data back to visitors.  Any information that may be of interest to your visitors is worth considering as an addition to your kiosk.

Up to date information is easily accessible and of interest to many.  Setting up a program like this is a low maintenance way to get more interest in your exhibit multimedia.

If you have used dynamic data or have any questions, please respond by clicking the “Comments” link below.  We’d love to hear from you.  Also, for information on how to subscribe to this blog so that you are alerted when it is updated, visit our web site at www.point2explore.com and click on the blog link.

This concludes our list of 10 Key Considerations for your touch screen kiosk projects.  Keeping these things in mind will pay off in saved time, money, and frustration.  If you are planning a touch screen kiosk project and would like assistance, give us a call.  We’d love to discuss your project.

Chris Meyer

President

CD Meyer, Inc./point2explore

point2explore is product line of customizable touch screen kiosk programs including interactive games and informational programs.  point2explore products are currently running in over 100 museums and have been used in corporate events across the country. Visit our web site at http://www.point2explore.com.  3NNQN6GCPK25