In my earlier posts I explain how Here2There interactive wayfinding works, how quotes are generated and cost is determined, how the projects are broken down and developed, options for managing and building your project, and how to start your project. My most recent post explains how the projects are broken down into phases, for project management, and what takes place through the development process.
But once your project is started, how do you know which features to offer to your users? How do you determine what your specific location should offer to those looking to find their way?
As I mentioned before, each wayfinding project is very unique. Offering customization is also very important to our developers. Because of this, Here2There is equipped to provide many features and helpful functions to your users. (This also applies to the back end of the project, for those who may manage your wayfinder). Here2There was built with this in mind: We want to develop your wayfinder, and make it anything you want it to be.
That being said, it is important to decide which features should be offered to your users, to keep your wayfinder as clean and efficient as possible.
Basic features that H2T can offer:
a. Multiple languages
b. Users can search for departments, staff members / professors / doctors / services, etc.
c. Include directions to parking lots, subway and train, bus stops, restrooms, food courts, handicapped entrances, elevators, (basically any point of frequent use and interest by the public)
d. Message board: alert visitors of events / sales / news / schedule or property changes, and anything else that may need to be announced. Advertising is also possible with this segment.
e. Provide QR codes on any page of the wayfinder so that users can take that info with them. (This is different from the mobile version/interface of H2T that is available)
A good example of location specific features:
A patient of a hospital using Here2There walks in, new to the location. Has never been there. Upon walking in, they notice the H2T Kiosk in the front of the lobby. After approaching the kiosk, they notice a prompt that states “Hello, what are you looking for?” followed by a listing of possible services needed: Neurology, Cardiology, Oncology, Obstetrics, (etc). This may still confuse some patients and visitors. So, in the accompanying search bar they type, “I need a mamogram”. Next a listing for the department Gynecology comes up with the doctors associated and the directions to the department from where they are standing.
The same goes for a student at a campus. The same features can be applied to help students find departments, professors, studies and much more.
It is my job at Here2There Software to assess your project specs and your needs and to pull it all together to develop a service that not only helps your visitors and guests, but provides you with an impressive service that suits your budget.
Interactive Wayfinding 