3M has created a short video animation to help the museums and attractions market understand the advantages of multi-user touch screen for a better customer experience, return visits and more revenue.

Based on real-world experience working with museums, other venues and audio-visual specialists, the animation shows how multi-touch technology creates an interactive and fun way for people to discover, share and collaborate.

Says Paolo Pedrazzoli of 3M, “When a group of people visit a museum, you can be sure of two things: one, they’ll have their own personal ideas of the experience they hope to have; and two, they are already used to using technology – including touch – in their everyday lives.”

As well as interactive wayfinding (such as video guides or searching for exhibits) multi-touch systems can also be used to sell future tickets, souvenirs and branded goods, or capture visitor data. It’s even possible to link with other systems or sponsors’ information. Plus, several people can be interacting with the screen at the same time.

For instance, while Mum is looking for the way to the café, the kids can be competing against each other in an online game to win a free toy from the gift shop. Meanwhile, Dad can enter his details to become a friend of the museum and get reduced ticket prices on future exhibitions.

The 3M multi-touch technology, using patented metal-mesh design, can cope with up to 80 simultaneous touches in table-top or wall-mounted design, with exceptional visual clarity and robust performance in unattended, high footfall environments.

3M has produced a best practice guide designed to give inspiration to museums interested in using multi-touch AV to create an interactive, touch screen visitor experience. Developed in conjunction with leading AV specialists, the guide includes advice - including tips that will help bring kids through the doors - and is now available in a short animation video. To find out more, please follow this link.