Interactive kiosk

An Interactive kiosk is a computer terminal that provides information access via electronic methods. Interactive kiosks sometimes resemble telephone booths, but can also be used while sitting on a bench or chair. Interactive kiosks are typically placed in high foot traffic settings such as hotel lobbies or airports.
Integration of technology allows kiosks to perform a wide range of functions. For example, kiosks may enable users to enter a public utility bill account number in order to perform an online transaction, or collect cash in exchange for merchandise. Customised components such as coin hoppers, bill acceptors, card readers and thermal printers enable kiosks to meet the owner's specialised needs.


 
History

The first self-service, interactive kiosk was developed in 1977 at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign by a pre-med student, Murray Lappe. The content was created on the PLATO computer system, and accessible by plasma touch screen interface. The plasma display panel was invented at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign by Donald L. Bitzer. Lappe's kiosk, called THE PLATO HOTLINE allowed students and visitors to find movies, maps, directories, bus schedules, extracurricular activities, courses and email student organizations. When it first debuted in the U of Illinois Student Union in April 1977, more than 30,000 students, teachers and visitors stood in line during its first 6 weeks, to try their hand at a "personal computer" for the first time.
The first successful network of interactive kiosk used for commercial purposes was a project developed by the shoe retailer Florsheim Shoe Co.

Today, interactive kiosks can be found in a multitude of environments and for many purposes including: self-checkout lanes, e-ticketing, information and wayfinding, and vending.
The first touchscreen is shown by Elotouch at the 1982 World's Fair in Knoxville, TN. 1982 is also the first year that the word "Internet" is used. Factura (which was first kiosk company of any note) will be founded 4 years later.

Design and Construction

The aesthetic and functional design of interactive kiosks is a key element that drives user adoption, overall up-time and affordability. There are many factors to consider when designing an interactive kiosk including:
• Aesthetic design: The design of the enclosure is often the driving factor in user adoption and brand recognition.
• Manufacturing volume: This will determine which manufacturing processes are appropriate to use (i.e. sheet-metal, thermoformed plastic etc.).
• Graphic messaging: Plays a key role in communicating with potential users.
• Maintenance and thermal design: Critical in order to maximize up-time (the time between failures or crashes).
• Component specification: Typical components include Touch-screen, P.C., pointing device, keyboard, bill acceptor, mag-stripe and/ or bar-code scanner, surge protector, UPS etc.
• Ergonomic and ADA compliance: Is important to ensure comfortable and easy user accessibility.
• Interface design: Designing for interactive kiosks typically requires larger buttons and simpler decision trees than designing for a web or computer based interactive. Catchy attract animations and short dwell times are important.
Arc Design Consulting is a design consultancy specializing in interactive kiosk design.
 
 
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