KIOSK SOFTWARE This section of the course contains the following: Introduction to Kiosk Software Tips for Non-Programming Development Tips for Custom Program Development Combination Software Solutions Industry Standard Software Packages

INTRODUCTION At the core of the kiosk implementation is the software application. This piece (or pieces) of software monitors user interaction, the status of the available hardware, and produces the presentation to the user. There are basically three categories of software development packages packages that require one to know the programming language packages that do not require programming packages that allow both programming and non-programming As with hardware, your application will more than likely dictate the type{s} of software you should select to implement your solution. For example, if your application requires a certain hardware component such as a bill acceptor, then your software development tool better have the ability to interface with the specific hardware. And, regardless of the software application used, if you do not have a graphic arts department or someone who is an expert in PhotoShop (or any other digital design tool), GET SOMEBODY. The graphics, sounds, videos, and interface components are just as important as the software tools used. You could have the sweetest kiosk software in the world, but if the interface that shows it off is ugly, it will never get used. TIPS FOR NON-PROGRAMMING DEVELOPMENT If at all possible, choose a non-programming solution if one exists for your specific application. The reasons for this recommendation are: quick development cycle freedom from consultation costs ease of maintenance However, watch out: just because the package is "great" at creating a presentation doesn’t mean it’s a great kiosk software development tool. Case in point: PowerPoint. PowerPoint cannot maintain statistics, monitor hardware, or transition to the attract mode when no one is at the kiosk. You will find that most Internet / Intranet based kiosk development packages are non-programming solutions. This is because the majority of the presentation engine is browser based. All you have to do is change the HTML and your kiosk changes with it. TIPS FOR CUSTOM PROGRAMMING DEVELOPMENT If your application needs to be developed via custom software, try to select a package and/or a consultant that uses "industry standard" tools. The reason for this recommendation: ease of maintenance - even if your consultant is no longer available. In addition to choosing an industry standard development tool, you may need to negotiate with the consultant on "who owns what". This can be sticky: more often than not, proprietary software is used. Getting the source code can be difficult and will be costly. When negotiating with your consultant, determine who is responsible for updates. If at all possible, have the kiosk software designed such that you can change the "external" media (graphics, sounds, videos, text) without accessing the code of the application. This will provide you with invaluable freedom. COMBINATION SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS Your application may allow you to combine both programming and non-programming solutions. If your main mission (besides having a killer kiosk application) is maintenance and freedom from additional costs, check with your consultant to find out how they may be able to work with you on providing a combo-solution. INDUSTRY STANDARD SOFTWARE PACKAGES Below is a list of some "industry standard" software development packages that can be used to create an interactive multimedia kiosk application: Non-Programming Packages PowerPoint / Astound / Similar... Kiosk-in-a-Box* Web Kiosk Commander * NetShift * NetKey * NetLock * Programming Packages Macromedia Director Asymetrix Multimedia Toolbook II Visual Basic Visual C++ * indicates Internet non-programming application