As interactive exhibit software specialists we are well experienced in using client data to create exhibits and using data collected from exhibit use to inform clients’ future decisions. Both are important aspects of developing an effective interactive exhibit.
Where the use of data collection and display becomes even more interesting is when it is part of the experience of using the exhibit, adding a further level of interaction for the visitor.
Building a digital wall
At the Great North Museum, visitors can participate in the creation of an exhibit – a digital version of Hadrian’s Wall. Using an interactive screen they can “carve” their initials and the place they have come from onto a virtual stone which gets placed into the projected wall. On further visits they can seek out their brick and see how much further the wall has developed since that brick was first placed.
Compiling a personal interpretation of exhibits
The Intelligence Centre exhibit at Manchester Art Gallery holds no pre-determined interpretive content. Instead it uses a question and answer technique to enable visitors build a structured personal response to artworks themed on conflict and resolution as well as using collected data to collate trends in responses.
Generating your own results
At Whitehill and Bordon Eco-town’s Eco-station visitors’ own efforts generate the results that are displayed as their activity on an eco-generator bike displays how much hard work it takes to provide energy for everyday requirements such as powering a TV, making eco issues directly relevant to their daily lives.
User-generated data is a great way to ensure that an interactive exhibit becomes directly relevant to each visitor’s experience and helps to keep the exhibit fresh and stimulating over time.
