City Guides
Is It Worth It To Invest In A Wayfinding Kiosk In 2025?
Recently, during a visit to a Midwestern city, I encountered an interactive wayfinding kiosk that initially caught my attention. Unlike the usual static maps or signs, this kiosk offered a dynamic interaction that seemed to promise a new way to explore the city. However, the experience left me pondering a critical question: Is it really worth it for cities to invest in a wayfinding kiosk in 2025? Let’s dive into the complexities and realities of such investments and evaluate their effectiveness in engaging visitors.
The Bidding Process: A Tedious Affair
The procurement process for public wayfinding kiosks is notoriously protracted and fraught with challenges that can significantly extend the timeline. When a city decides to invest in a Wayfinding Kiosk, the initial step is entering a bidding process that itself can be a slow-moving affair. From the moment a bid is placed, it can take well over a year just to receive approval due to the meticulous and often bureaucratic scrutiny required. This delay is just the beginning, as each step in the process tends to introduce further complications and potential holdups.
Once a bid is finally accepted, the actual order for the kiosks is placed, but this too is no swift matter. The manufacturing, testing, and delivery involve complex logistics that can easily extend the timeline. When the kiosks eventually arrive—often years after the initial bid—they must be installed and tested to ensure they function as intended in their urban environments.
However, the challenges do not end once the kiosks are installed. Technology evolves at such a rapid pace that a kiosk’s hardware and software may become outdated long before its expected lifespan ends. What was state-of-the-art at the time of the bid can easily become obsolete within the few short years it takes to deploy the kiosks. This obsolescence is not just a matter of being behind on technological trends; it affects the functionality and user experience, making the kiosks less effective at engaging users and providing the services for which they were intended.
Furthermore, the maintenance costs associated with these kiosks can escalate unexpectedly. As the technology ages, it becomes more susceptible to issues ranging from hardware malfunctions to software glitches, all requiring ongoing maintenance. This maintenance is not only costly but also requires technical expertise that may not be readily available. Cities may find themselves in a position where they are spending significant amounts on frequent repairs just to keep the kiosks operational, rather than invest in a wayfinding kiosk those funds into more current and effective technological solutions.
In essence, the lengthy and cumbersome process of getting wayfinding kiosks from the bidding stage to full operational status is fraught with delays, cost overruns, and technological obsolescence. This reality raises significant questions about the viability and practicality of such investments in the fast-paced, technology-driven world of today, where digital alternatives may offer more agile and cost-effective solutions.
Smartphones: The Ubiquitous Challengers
Smartphones have become indispensable tools for travelers, offering a wide array of functions that often outpace those available through stationary wayfinding kiosks. Here’s why smartphones typically have the upper hand in helping tourists navigate and discover new places:
-
Real-Time Updates: Unlike static kiosks, smartphones receive continuous updates, ensuring that the information—from traffic conditions to public transit times—is accurate and up to the minute.
-
Comprehensive Capabilities:
- Navigation: Built-in GPS systems provide turn-by-turn directions that adjust dynamically to the user’s movements.
- Recommendations: Apps leverage user data to offer personalized suggestions for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
- Reviews and Ratings: Instant access to reviews helps users make informed decisions on the go.
-
Multifunctionality:
- Communication: Easy access to calls, texts, and emails facilitates better coordination and planning.
- Photography: Integrated cameras allow travelers to capture memories without needing a separate device.
- Entertainment: Music, games, and streaming services are readily available to enhance the travel experience.
-
User Interface: Modern smartphones feature intuitive, user-friendly interfaces that can be customized to suit individual preferences, making them more accessible for a broader range of users, including those with disabilities.
-
Connectivity: With the ability to connect to mobile data or Wi-Fi, smartphones can access the internet from almost anywhere, providing a level of flexibility that kiosks cannot match.
In contrast, kiosks are often limited by their fixed location and lack of adaptability. They cannot provide the personalized, interactive experience that modern travelers expect, which is delivered so effectively by smartphones. As such, investing in a wayfinding kiosk may no longer make sense when most visitors can simply pull out their phones for more comprehensive, convenient, and up-to-date information.
Cost-Effective Alternatives: QR Codes
Considering the high costs associated with purchasing and maintaining a kiosk—often upwards of $12,000—it might be more economical and efficient to leverage existing technologies that engage visitors through their devices. Placing QR codes on strategic signage throughout a city can direct users to mobile-friendly websites that offer rich, interactive content and guidance at a fraction of the cost of physical kiosks. This approach not only saves money but also taps into the visitors’ comfort with their technology.
Vandalism and Maintenance Challenges After You Invest In A Wayfinding Kiosk
Public kiosks also face the risk of vandalism and wear from exposure to elements, leading to potential additional costs in repairs and maintenance. The durability of these kiosks is a serious concern, especially in areas with high foot traffic or adverse weather conditions. As technology evolves rapidly, maintaining the relevance and functionality of installed kiosks can become a logistical nightmare, requiring frequent updates to hardware and software, which may be both costly and time-consuming.
Software Platforms To Consider For Wayfinding Kiosks
In the context of technological compatibility and future-proofing, any organization must consider the software platforms their systems will support. Companies that still rely on Linux-based software for their kiosks, without offering an Android alternative that matches in functionality, should be approached with caution. Android’s widespread adoption in mobile devices ensures that it remains up-to-date with the latest features and security measures, which are essential for maintaining user engagement and protecting data. Moreover, Android systems often provide greater flexibility and a more extensive app ecosystem, which can enhance the functionality of devices and make them more appealing to users. Therefore, opting for systems that lack this adaptability or are not keeping pace with current technology standards may lead to increased obsolescence and higher costs down the line.
Technological Expertise and Compatibility Issues
To successfully implement and maintain a wayfinding kiosk system, city officials and planners need extensive knowledge about the specific hardware and software. Ensuring compatibility between the two is crucial and often requires a specialized set of skills and knowledge, which might necessitate ongoing training or hiring of experts. This need for deep technical expertise can further elevate the project’s cost and complexity.
In conclusion, while the idea of interactive wayfinding kiosks may seem appealing as a modern solution for city navigation and visitor engagement, the reality presents numerous challenges. With the widespread adoption of smartphones equipped with advanced capabilities, the necessity and practicality of investing in physical kiosks must be critically evaluated. Cities might find it more advantageous to invest in digital solutions that integrate seamlessly with the personal devices of their visitors, offering a more cost-effective, flexible, and visitor-friendly approach to urban navigation and exploration.
Prerequisites for Effective Kiosk Deployment
For cities considering the implementation of wayfinding kiosks, certain conditions can significantly enhance the chances of a successful deployment. Here are the key prerequisites:
-
Pre-allocated Budget: Ensure funds are readily available. The budget should account for initial purchase, installation, and ongoing maintenance costs.
-
Immediate Availability of Units: Opt for kiosks that are already stocked in U.S.-based warehouses. This reduces waiting times drastically, avoiding delays that can make the technology obsolete by the time it’s deployed.
-
Hire a Technology Consultant: It’s crucial to engage with a technology consultant who can thoroughly vet the hardware and software of the kiosk. This ensures compatibility and functionality that meets current standards.
-
Rapid Deployment: The implementation process must be swift to keep pace with rapidly advancing technology. Quick deployment helps prevent the technology from becoming outdated, maximizing the utility and relevance of the installation.
-
Reputable Vendor: Choose a reputable vendor that offers a comprehensive warranty covering both hardware and software issues for at least one year. This warranty is crucial for protecting your investment from operational faults, though it does not typically cover damage from vandalism.
-
Vandalism Assessment: Assess the proposed location for potential risks of vandalism. Understanding the local environment and potential security risks can help in planning adequate protective measures to safeguard the kiosk.
-
Cost Consideration: Be aware that the upfront cost of a kiosk often represents only about 50% of the total expenditure. Ongoing maintenance, software updates, and potential repairs can significantly increase the overall cost.
Implementing these steps can greatly improve the effectiveness of kiosk installations, ensuring they serve their intended purpose without becoming a financial burden due to unexpected costs or rapid obsolescence.
Evaluating the Viability of Wayfinding Kiosks
While it is possible to have a successful deployment of wayfinding kiosks, achieving this is often challenging. The hurdles begin with the lengthy approval processes typical for Destination Marketing Organizations (DMOs) and other municipal entities. These procedures can extend for years, often entangling the deployment in bureaucratic red tape that delays the initiation until the technology is nearly obsolete.
Moreover, the total cost of ownership for kiosks—considering maintenance, software updates, and potential vandalism—can become prohibitively expensive. Given the rapid pace of technological advancements, the hardware and software components can quickly become outdated, necessitating further investment.
For cities contemplating the installation of wayfinding kiosks, a careful evaluation of these factors is crucial. While the strategic placement of kiosks can indeed enhance the visitor experience, the real challenge lies in executing a deployment that is both timely and cost-effective. In many cases, the complexities involved make successful implementations the exception rather than the norm, particularly when navigating the typical bureaucratic processes involved in public infrastructural developments.
City Guides
5 Solutions Destination Organizations Should Avoid in 2025
As destination organizations continue to evolve with technology and changing visitor expectations, it’s crucial to identify which innovations truly enhance the visitor experience and which could detract from it. In 2025, while many solutions promise efficiency and engagement, there are a few that might not deliver the expected returns. This article explores five such solutions that destination organizations should consider avoiding.
1. Interactive Touch Screen Kiosks
Despite their once-popular status, interactive touch screen kiosks are increasingly viewed as outdated within destination organizations. The reasons for this shift are multifaceted:
- Hygiene and Health Concerns: Post-pandemic, the public’s awareness and concern about health and hygiene have significantly increased. The shared surfaces of touch screen kiosks pose a high risk for germ transmission, deterring visitors who are cautious about touching surfaces that are frequently used by others.
- Maintenance and Upkeep Costs: Kiosks require constant maintenance, from software updates to hardware repairs and regular cleaning. These ongoing costs can strain the budgets of destination organizations, diverting funds from other potentially more impactful initiatives.
- Rapid Technological Obsolescence: Technology evolves at an exponential rate, leading to newer, more efficient solutions that quickly make older technologies like kiosks seem outdated. This can render the investment in kiosks uneconomical as they need frequent replacements or upgrades to stay current.
- Impersonal Visitor Experience: In an era where personalized visitor experiences are becoming the norm, kiosks offer a very generic interaction. This lack of personal touch can diminish the visitor experience, especially when compared to more dynamic and interactive digital solutions.
2. Overreliance on Mobile Apps
While mobile apps can enhance the visitor experience by providing information and interactivity at one’s fingertips, overreliance on them can have drawbacks:
- Exclusion of Non-Smartphone Users: Not every visitor uses a smartphone or prefers to engage through apps. Overreliance on mobile apps can alienate this segment of the audience, potentially reducing engagement.
- App Overload: Many consumers feel overwhelmed by the number of apps they are encouraged to download. Travelers may be reluctant to install yet another app, leading to lower engagement levels than anticipated.
- Depersonalization of Experience: Excessive dependence on digital apps can reduce personal interactions between staff and visitors, which are often valuable for conveying the culture and hospitality of the destination.
3. Excessive Use of Virtual Reality
Virtual reality offers immersive experiences but using it excessively can detach visitors from the authentic attractions of a destination:
- High Setup Costs: Implementing VR technology can be expensive, not just in terms of equipment but also in creating high-quality content.
- Physical Disconnection: While VR can visually transport users to different places, it physically isolates them in headsets, potentially cutting them off from interacting with the real environment around them.
- Diminished Actual Attractions: Overuse of VR can make actual attractions seem less appealing or redundant, which can deter visitors from engaging with the real-world aspects of the destination that make it unique.
4. Generic Automated Responses in Customer Service
Automating customer service with AI can streamline operations, but overly generic responses can frustrate visitors:
- Lack of Personalization: Generic responses fail to address specific visitor concerns, leading to dissatisfaction and potentially harming the organization’s reputation.
- Inability to Handle Complex Queries: AI systems are often not sophisticated enough to handle nuanced questions, which can leave visitors without the answers they need, prompting frustration and a poor experience.
5. Unmoderated User-Generated Content
User-generated content can lend authenticity to a destination’s marketing efforts, but without proper moderation, it can lead to significant issues:
- Risk of Inappropriate Content: Without strict moderation, there’s a risk that inappropriate or offensive content could be published, damaging the destination’s image.
- Misinformation: Unverified content can spread misinformation about the destination, leading to confused or misled visitors.
Challenges with Implementing Kiosks in Destination Organizations
While interactive kiosks initially seem like an innovative solution for enhancing visitor interactions within destination organizations, many DMOs (Destination Management Organizations) have encountered significant challenges that often outweigh the perceived benefits. Understanding these challenges can help organizations make more informed decisions regarding visitor engagement technologies.
Complex Implementation Process:
The process of implementing kiosks involves much more than just purchasing and setting up hardware. DMOs often find themselves navigating a complex maze of grant paperwork and compliance requirements, which can extend the deployment timeline by years. Securing funding through grants typically requires detailed proposals, justifications, and ongoing reports, demanding substantial administrative effort and time.
Lack of Vendor Support:
One of the critical issues with kiosk vendors is the inconsistency in the level of support provided. Many DMOs have experienced situations where the companies behind these kiosks offer minimal after-sales support. This lack of support can be particularly problematic when technical issues arise or when software updates are needed to keep the kiosks functioning optimally and securely.
Quality and Reliability Concerns:
The quality of kiosks varies significantly between manufacturers, leading to uncertainties about their reliability. DMOs that have implemented kiosks often face frequent downtime due to hardware malfunctions or software glitches, which not only affects the visitor experience but also places additional strain on staff who must address these issues. The unpredictability of kiosk performance can deter DMOs from achieving the level of visitor engagement they aim for.
Physical and Cybersecurity Risks:
Kiosks, being publicly accessible physical units, are susceptible to various forms of damage. They can be vandalized or accidentally damaged by users, leading to costly repairs and maintenance. Additionally, the interactive nature of these systems makes them targets for hacking and other cybersecurity threats. If not adequately secured, kiosks can be exploited to access sensitive information, potentially compromising visitor data and the organization’s network.
Positive Strategies and Trends in Tourism
After identifying what to avoid, it’s crucial to focus on positive strategies and emerging trends that can genuinely enhance visitor engagement and operational efficiency:
- Personalization: Leveraging data analytics to offer personalized recommendations and experiences can significantly enhance visitor satisfaction.
- Sustainable Practices: Emphasizing sustainability in operations and promotions can attract environmentally conscious travelers.
- Local Partnerships: Collaborating with local businesses and attractions can create comprehensive visitor packages and promote community-centric tourism.
Changing Dynamics in Tourism: The tourism sector is rapidly evolving with an increased emphasis on sustainable and responsible travel. Visitors are looking for more than just a destination; they want meaningful and ethical experiences.
Successful Strategies from Other DMOs:
- Virtual Concierge Services: Some DMOs have successfully implemented AI-powered virtual concierges that provide personalized assistance without the downsides of generic AI chatbots.
- Augmented Reality for Heritage Trails: Unlike VR, augmented reality (AR) enhances real-world interactions, which has been successfully used by various DMOs to enrich historical tours and trails.
By focusing on innovative, sustainable, and personalized strategies while avoiding outdated or inefficient practices, destination organizations can ensure they remain competitive and appealing in the changing landscape of global tourism.
City Guides
The Ultimate Staycation – Exploring The 8 Best Accommodations in Jindabyne
Adventure Travel
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Adventure City Guide
Find out how you can explore the streets, canals and local markets within minutes of Bangkok with our Outdoor Activities in Bangkok Adventure City Guide.
Are you looking for an insider’s adventure travel guide for the best outdoor activities in Bangkok?
As part of our Adventure City Guide series, Ian from Where Sidewalks End shares his expert insider tips on the top adventure and outdoor activities to do in Bangkok.
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Adventure City Guide – Photo by Evoflash
Why visit Bangkok for adventure?
Bangkok is one of the world’s largest metropolises and a gateway for most of the world to access the rest of South East Asia. With numbers surpassing 14 million people in the Greater Bangkok Region, this is no small player in the world’s super-cities. Of course, having such a long history with foreign visitors, the city has become incredibly established in the world’s tourist sector.
This has allowed it to grow many facets of adventurous activities – making access to something for everyone!
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok
Exploring the Klongs
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – The Klongs
Klongs are canals that used to feed the entire city with life-giving water, branched off from the city’s main artery – the Chao Phraya River. Today, the locals wouldn’t drink the water if you paid them, but there is still a fascinating life along the Klongs’ banks. There is so much to explore, from floating markets to old houses on stilts, and it gives insight into this ancient way of life!
What’s it cost, and how to get to the Klongs?
You can usually arrange the Klongs from the pier “Saphan Taksin” along the Chao Phraya River. This is conveniently a stop on the Skytrain, making it very easy to access. Usually, you will be renting the entire boat for the day (about 1000 THB, or USD 35) and not paying a per-person rate. So if you can find a few people to go with, the price will drop significantly per person.
Rickshaw City Tours
If you’ve never been to Asia before, Rickshaws are one of the most fun ways to get around. Although they can often be a little more expensive than metered taxis, you get an experience (and a view) that is unparalleled, especially in the busy streets of Bangkok.
What’s it cost?
Occasionally, you can even haggle a deal for a city tour for next to nothing (50-100 THB or $1.50-3 USD), as long as you visit a couple of affiliated ‘custom suit tailors’ throughout the day, as they’ll get a kickback from the shops just for bringing you there… No purchase is necessary.
You can often find Tuk Tuk drivers willing to do this standing along the perimeter of the Kings’ Palace. It may take a few attempts of asking for a ‘special city tour,’ but you will be bound to find someone ready for a cut of this business.
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Rickshaw Tours
Local Secret Spot
Chatuchak Market
Though most people wouldn’t consider going to a market an adventure, they probably have never experienced the likes of Chatuchak (also known as JJs). This is one of SE Asia’s LARGEST outdoor markets. It’s so prominent that you can find maps of the market to help navigate. It’s roughly the size of 4 city blocks and is divided into various sections.
You’ll find everything under the sun here, from clothing to handicrafts, food, mobile phones, and even puppies and other cute critters for sale!! It’s bonkers. If it gets too much for you, you can take a break in one of Bangkok’s most famous parks (Chatuchak park), located next to the market.
How to get there?
You can get here via Skytrain (BTS), subway (MRT), taxi, bus, you name it – it’s very accessible! But it’s only open on weekends, from about dawn until 5 or 6 pm at its peak. Some shops stay open longer, but most will be closed by dusk. It’s free entry and a perfect place to buy ANY souvenirs at the end of your time in Thailand.
Suppose you can coordinate to be here on the weekend. I generally hate shopping for ‘stuff,’ but I love this market and its energy!
Outdoor Activities in Bangkok – Chatuchak Markets
Best time of the year to visit Bangkok for adventure?
Bangkok is in the tropics and quite close to the Equator. Of course, this means it’s hot on a year-round basis.
It’s considered the rainy season from May to October, though showers can happen at any time of the year. This is generally a less busy time for tourists, though the rains are not quite as bad as expected and often only last 30 mins-1 hour, cooling the city’s heart. Peak season is in December-January when temperatures are at their most astounding ad driest… though it’s still pretty hot!
And if Bangkok isn’t to your taste, the luxury Koh Samui will be. Endless sandy beach, beautiful clear waters, and nightlife that could be lived in forever. The luxury rental properties are stunning, and we recommend Tempston Luxury villa rentals.
Finally, the reason I love Bangkok for adventure is that…
It’s never-ending. This city is SO BIG that you could get lost in a new neighborhood almost every day. Single. Day. And still find new, exciting things to explore. On my list for the upcoming weeks, I’ve got the Scala Cinema, the Thai Air Force Museum, Papaya Vintage Shop, and the Erawan Museum – to name a few. Every time I explore one place, I learn of 3 more!!
BIO:
From a young age, Ian was always a wanderer. He’s since travelled to all 7 continents, and has spent the majority of his life pursuing this passion. You can follow him in his off-the-beaten-path adventures and discoveries on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and his travel blog Where Sidewalks End.
Have you been to Bangkok? What were your favorite outdoor activities in Bangkok?
We have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...
-
Africa2 months agoBasic Arabic Words for Travel to Egypt
-
Asia2 weeks agoTips for Picking the Right Car For Driving in Scotland
-
Travel Tips2 weeks ago8 Things to do in Bondi in Winter 2025
-
Travel Tips2 months agoFive Fun Reasons to Move To Pasadena
-
Canada2 months agoVisiting Canada Soon? Here Are A Few Things You Should Know
-
Travel Tips2 months agoWhy Bansko Europe is the Hidden Gem You Need to Visit This Year!
-
Europe2 months agoDiscover Sicily’s Hidden Charms: Why Villa Holidays Are the Ultimate Getaway
-
Technology4 weeks ago5 Reasons Wayfinding Kiosks Are Obsolete for DMOs