In conjunction with partner Hanson, develops an intuitive, interactive customer travel experience
Holiday travel has just begun and the travel industry is busy planning innovative ways to service the multitude of people passing through their airports. With an expected increase in travel at greater than 50% over the upcoming holidays, airports are challenged with efficient logistics while creating a good customer experience.
Working with the Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA) and Hanson, Inc. a full-service digital agency, Meridian built a multi-function self-service solution that enhances travelers experience while also extending the reach of local amenities of the city and state. Using the sleek Presenza model with a 42” portrait screen, Meridian built and delivered an engaging solution for travelers. Steve Hanson, President Hanson, Inc. stated, “Hanson performed onsite interviews with travelers and focus groups to gain greater insight into their needs. Our approach always starts with understanding the user so we can deliver an interactive experience that solves real needs.”
The result was an inventive self-service solution that provides interactive digital signage, gate mapping and dynamic way finding. Another new original addition is the incorporation of mobile technology and utilization of QR codes. The QR codes send directions to a user’s mobile phone, map routes, and provide information about restaurants, allowing the self-service solution’s information to travel with users.
The self-service solution allows CRAA travelers to access information while also promoting local tourist destinations and destinations throughout Ohio. The fun postcard feature provides users a fun way to send photos to family and friends placing themselves in a variety of Columbus amenities.
The interactive directory solution was designed and manufactured by Meridian and powered by Meridian’s proprietary software, MZero Application Platform (MAP). The Columbus Regional Airport Authority solution utilizes QR codes, SMS messaging, VoIP for telephone handset, phone pad and on-screen prompts. The integrated data feeds provide a comprehensive listing of activities and targeted mapping information for statewide and regional events. Mark Mulchaey, Customer Service Manager with the Columbus Regional Airport Authority stated “The Meridian solution helps us deliver a greater customer experience for our travelers by providing a fun, informational and interactive solution.”
Meridian’s MMS server technology provides CRAA with automated, centralized content updates that allow new versions and resources to be uploaded to the solution on a daily scheduled interval. The MAP kiosk platform provides a foundation for CRAA to create rich interactive experiences with digital signage that is measurable, manageable and accessible. Meridian uses the same MAP platform to develop turnkey solutions for clients globally.
Employing Meridian’s Concept to Completion™ process, Meridian created a full-featured solution for CRAA that addressed focus group feedback, economic development opportunities for the city of Columbus, informational access for travelers, integrated mobile technology and expanded reach with multi language capabilities. The CCRA solution is expected to deploy in time for the heightened holiday travel season in both arrival and departure levels of the airport.
About Meridian:
Meridian is an award winning, established leader, providing full service solutions for the self-service kiosk industry. Recognized for expertise, quality, design, flexibility, style and partnerships; Meridian provides solutions to some the largest companies in the world. The Self-Service Technology Center (SSTC), in Bentonville, AR, in partnership with Hewlett-Packard, Intel, Microsoft, Storm and Key Innovations and Zebra Technologies attests to Meridian as the leader for self-service solutions. The corporate headquarters and kiosk manufacturing facilities are located in Aberdeen, NC and the Mzero software development center is located on Ontario, Canada. For more information: http://www.mzero.com
Source: Meridian
