What Exactly is an Interactive Kiosk?

An interactive kiosk is a computer or computer-like device installed or deployed in a public venue in order to provide people easy self-service access to information, products, and services. They are common in retail stores, libraries, airports and transport depots, company and hotel lobbies, cafeterias, and other such places where it may be impractical to install personal computers, but may require or benefit from self-service applications. Like any old personal computer, an interactive kiosk may provide a wide range of applications and features, ranging from internet access to multimedia viewing, and even the use of different software applications. However, unlike typical computers, a kiosk can only perform so many tasks that it is designed for, thus optimizing different activities like way-finding, information research, interactive registration, and other self-service activities.

Some popular applications of interactive kiosks include automated check-in systems in hotels and airports, pay-per-use computers in cyber cafés, and interactive gift registries and inventory management in retail establishments. Kiosks are commonly deployed in places where people and consumers will benefit greatly from self-service tools. Interactive kiosks come in many shapes, sizes, and configurations. They are usually custom-built to suit specific applications. For instance, a kiosk meant for consolidated inventory and workforce management can b encased in a steel shell or an industrial-strength casing to ensure protection as it resides on the warehouse floor. Kiosks built for cosmetics counters and retail establishments and are meant for display purposes can be dressed up accordingly to reflect the store's brand. In instances where appearance and ruggedness aren't as important, simple PCs and touch-screen devices can usually suffice.

Old interactive kiosks used to include typical computer units, complete with a CPU, and other off-the shelf parts ranging from a processor to a hard disk, and other components you would usually find in an average PC. Most also include peripherals and input devices to facilitate interaction. Today, in the advent of touch screen devices and seamless display systems, interactive kiosks come in the form of larger than life touch screen monitors that are equipped with specialized software and programs to ensure efficient functionality. No longer do these devices require large cabinets and encasements to conceal hardware as the device themselves serve as the processing unit for the applications installed. Kiosk software can be divided into two major categories, namely, the operating system software and the application software, which are responsible for the management, presentation, and the functionality of the interactive kiosk.

About The Author:

This article is written by David Kyalo, a successful technical writer. He is interested in and fascinated by technical topics. He writes unique articles on touch screen technology and specialized in finding practical touch screen software solutions.

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