solutions Customer Engagement Technology August/September 2020 Issue 27 also in this issue: Why Banks Should Invest in Alternative Channels Technology Brings Customers Back to the Store LED or Digital Device Advances in user-interface design How is Covid-19 changing the shape of touchscreen technology The importance of safe cash transactions kiosks | digital signage | engagement technology KIOSK ISSN 2398-2837contents KIOSK solutions 3 FOREWORD 5 NEWS 6 WHY BANKS SHOULD INVEST IN ALTERNATIVE CHANNELS 14 Banks are now facing a new challenges. HOW A TOUCHLESS KIOSK INTERFACE FITS INTO YOUR BUSINESS 18 COVID-19 has shifted the way society views cleanliness and personal hygiene. HOW THE AV INDUSTRY WILL INFLUENCE THE COVID-19 TRAJECTORY 22 Not since 9/11 has the business world faced such an abrupt pause, followed by an uncertain future. HOW TECHNOLOGY CAN HELP BRING BACK CUSTOMERS TO THE STORE 24 The surge in online shopping, accelerated by the COVID-19 outbreak, has left many retailers fearing for their future. HOW IS COVID-19 CHANGING THE SHAPE OF TOUCHSCREEN TECHNOLOGY? 28 Dean Ward of Evoke Creative explains. FREE YOUR MIND: ADVANCES IN THE DESIGN OF USER INTERFACES 32 The leading considerations a product designer should have when planning a device that has a touch interface. THE IMPORTANCE OF SAFE CASH TRANSACTIONS 36 In the current uncertain climate, having the ability to automate cash transactions is important for practicing business hygiene. LED OR DIGITAL DEVICE? IT'S ALL ABOUT COMMUNICATION 40 Bob Kronman of independent LED consultancy Kronman Associates discusses the digital touchpoints in our lives today. 40 32 24 contents 18Tuesday 8th December 2020 Business Design Centre, London N1 0QH Sponsor/partnership opportunities www.kdseurope.com Now open for exhibitor enquiries Accepting speaker suggestions Register for FREE to attend 4 KIOSK solutions Core sectors We bring together the core sectors that make up the global kiosk and digital signage industry; including self-serve, wayfinding, information boards, touchscreen and unattended payments. Learn Broaden your knowledge with our informative seminars that feature the self-service and digital signage industry’s most respected thought leaders. Develop your business through successful strategies brought to you by our experts. Network KDS 2020 provides you with the perfect forum to network, collaborate and to check out the competition! Showcase Launch products and services, drive brand awareness, demonstrate technical, technological and resource capability to a targeted audience. Europe's only dedicated event for the kiosk and digital signage industry KDS 2020 is for integrators, manufacturers and service providers who utilise self-serve technology to interact with clients and streamline customer journeys. KDS 2020 offers the opportunity to reach a uniquely qualified audience of key decision makers with real projects.LOOKING FORWARD When I last wrote, the lockdown was beginning to be slowly lifted, with businesses, shops, restaurants and bars gradually opening. However as I write today, the government is reducing the number of people being able to congregate, businesses are closing and many people are sadly losing their jobs. It's very clear that Covid-19 has made harsh changes to many of our lives. But wherever there are challenges, creative minds get to work and begin to look forward. Adjustments are of course required and alternative channels need to be sought to reimagine our pre-coronavirus activities. Our industry constantly investigates and identifies different ways of touch free, mobile and self-serve operations, and in this issue we explore how to blend physical and digital experiences whilst keeping in mind the importance of minimising the spread of viruses. Touchscreen technology has remained relevant since it first emerged on the scene back in the 80s. Our features examine how emerging technology can help in typically traditional service operations, such as the high street and banking sectors. We ask, can technology actually help shape our transactional future? Of course it's all about communication. We're aware that the information we find via digital signage or self serve kiosks, helps us purchase, be educated and keep informed. These channels continue to integrate digital touch points into our day to day activities. We look at how our industry has an amazing opportunity to expand upon how to connect with individuals, build better relationships and become an even stronger tool for businesses to engage and interact with their clients. As always, stay safe, stay well and keep looking forward. Laura Vallis Editor foreword KIOSK solutions 5KIOSK solutions Abacus Communications Limited 1 Tudor Business Park, Waterhouse Lane, Kingswood, KT20 6EN www.kiosksolutionsmagazine.com Published by: Abacus Communications Publisher: Greg Ward Editor: Laura Vallis Sales: Lloyd Vella ISSN 2398-2837 The views expressed in the articles and technical papers are those of the authors and are not endorsed by the publishers. The author and publisher, and its officers and employees, do not accept any liability for any errors that may have occurred, or for any reliance on their contents. All trademarks and brand names are respected within our publication. However, the publishers accept no responsibility for any inadvertent misuse that may occur. This publication is protected by copyright © 2020 and accordingly must not be reproduced in any medium. All rights reserved. Would you like to contribute to Kiosk Solutions? Please submit news stories, articles, press releases and industry expert opinions to Laura Vallis editor.kiosk@abacus-comms.co.uk including high resolution (300dpi+ CMYK) images. We publish all news and articles that adhere to our editorial guidelines free of charge. This ensures our content is unbiased and relevant to our industry. Absen brings giant 232sqm control room display to China’s top construction manufacturer LED display solutions manufacturer, Absen, recently erected an impressive LED display to SANY Group. Boasting Absen’s new indoor fixed install LED product for the APAC and LATM regions, the KL Series, this video wall was built as part of China’s national strategic initiative to further develop the manufacturing sector, ‘Made in China 2025’. The 5G display terminal sits at SANY Group’s factory No.18, in Changsha. In collaboration with partners ZTE and Huawei, SANY Group has jointly developed 5G smart manufacturing applications. SANY Group’s core company, SANY Heavy Industry was founded in 1994 and is China's largest and the world's fifth largest construction machinery manufacturer. As one of the world’s leading equipment manufacturers, SANY Heavy Industry deals with complex challenges in network security, service centralisation. Existing wired and wireless private networks are not able to meet such communication requirements, creating a need for high-bandwidth, low-latency, high-reliability, and easy-to-deploy networks to provide connected and operational support for manufacturing. Capable of handling 5G, the newly installed screen displays two video streams of HD surveillance data, that are transmitted and distributed to a campus monitoring centre using multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) through the 5G network. The 5G data creates high-level requirements for the display terminal and the KL series is able to meet all of them. The 2.5mm pixel pitch LED screen can display a number of real- time operation images in HD, helping operators to monitor critical activity in the factory, including components transported through the hanging systems, and the robotic arms handling product materials. Boasting high brightness, grayscale, contrast ratio and refresh rate levels, the KL series is suited for a wide array of commercial and domestic applications. Using turnkey LED displays instead of components that need to be assembled on-site, the KL series not only helps save time and labour cost but also improves the end quality of a project. Absen’s project manager Leon Liu said: “Very large display areas bring great challenges to the overall uniformity, flatness, stability and life-span of the installation. Our products are calibrated after going through a series of critical product tests, which ensures high visual uniformity over time and maintains the product lifespan at the component level. The KL panels are also made of fine die-casting aluminium, which further ensures the flatness of the overall display for an excellent visual impact.” Security and maintenance were also key factors since the LED video wall is installed 5m above the ground. With a depth of only 70mm, and weighing 7.8kg per panel, the KL series was perfectly suited for this project. It also offers front and rear installation and maintenance, and its design embeds the PSU (power supply units), cables, receiving cards as well as other key components. n news 6 KIOSK solutions6 KIOSK solutionsnews EonDigital partners with BrightSign to develop “ExoMetrics Wrist” contactless temperature screening solution BrightSign, LLC has announced that EonDigital, Inc. has incorporated the BrightSign HD1024 media player in its new temperature screening solution, ExoMetrics Wrist. This innovative new solution quickly achieves highly accurate temperature measurements by taking hundreds of temperature readings in just a matter of seconds. This hands-free solution all but eliminates false positive readings and enables businesses to safely screen patrons with minimal disruption. “EonDigital’s unique approach to touch-free temperature screening is precisely the sort of forward thinking we need to squarely address the challenges associated with safe business operation during this pandemic,” said BrightSign CEO Jeff Hastings. “It’s gratifying to see the many ways companies like EonDigital are adapting BrightSign’s technology to bring their innovative solutions to market.” Temperature checks have become an essential part of businesses re-opening in the wake of COVID-19. Common temperature-screening methods either rely on hand-held devices that pose a viral transmission risk or hands-free solutions that work effectively only when used properly by the patron or customer. ExoMetrics Wrist overcomes these challenges with its unique design and engineering. While most temperature screening devices use the forehead as the point of measurement, EonDigital’s new device focuses on the wrist, an area of the body that is less likely to produce an artificially high reading due to physical exertion or environmental conditions. Not only does the wrist yield a more accurate reading, ExoMetrics Wrist takes approximately 300 readings in just a few seconds, yielding a temperature measurement accurate within .5 degrees Celsius. ExoMetrics Wrist also takes advantage of a powerful algorithm that processes recent readings to identify environmental trends, further reducing the likelihood of false positive readings. “We conducted extensive research to isolate the most common shortcomings of conventional temperature screening devices, and we designed ExoMetrics Wrist to specifically address those challenges,” said EonDigital co-founder Chris Dotson. “Not only does measuring one’s wrist enable us to render a more accurate temperature reading, but there are also ergonomic advantages to our design that make the device suitable for a broader population.” ExoMetrics Wrist sits at a comfortable height that is suitable for use by children and adults alike. Similarly, the device is within easy reach of people who may be seated in a wheelchair or other assisted mobility device. This broad accessibility suits ExoMetrics Wrist particularly well not just to businesses and retail environments, but also to airports, theatres, and other entertainment venues that attract a diverse crowd of all ages. EonDigital has a proven track record of leveraging the power of BrightSign in a variety of environments, including high-profile projects in educational, scientific, retail and corporate settings across the country. ExoMetrics Wrist is the latest collaboration between BrightSign and EonDigital, whose partnership has spanned nearly a decade. The next such integration will involve InReality, helping the company expand its advanced software platform that powers Safe Space solutions to help businesses safely resume operations following the COVID-19 shutdown. n WHO rates ISE 2021 Covid-19 risk as ‘low’ A risk assessment carried out to World Health Organisation guidelines has rated the overall risk of transmission and further spread of COVID-19 at ISE 2021 as ‘low’. The assessment takes into account the risk factors associated with the event and the impact of specifically formulated safety measures. Fira de Barcelona, risk consultancy AON and the Hospital Clinic of Barcelona have jointly devised strategies for events at the Fira. This has involved the evaluation and analysis of more than 60 processes or services, leading to the identification of 948 mitigation points. The measures for ensuring a healthy and safe environment ISE 2021 are available as a comprehensive set of guidelines for exhibitors, ISE and Fira staff. They can be found in A Guide to Safe Exhibiting, published by show organiser Integrated Systems Events. The Guide is organised into four sections: Actions by Fira de Barcelona and ISE; Stand Design; Stand Management; and Visitor Guidance. Each section contains essential measures in the areas of health and safety; traffic flow and visitor management; staff, stand personnel and supplier working; and social distancing. Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events, commented: “We have understandably had many questions from exhibitors and others about how ISE 2021 will be affected by the continuing public health situation. A Guide to Safe Exhibiting explains the adjustments that we and our exhibitors will need to make to ensure that the show is as safe as it can possibly be. The situation continues to evolve and we will update the Guide if any changes to the strategy are required. We remain committed to holding ISE 2021 at the Fira next February as an in-person event.” A Guide to Safe Exhibiting can be downloaded from https://tinyurl.com/ safe-exhibiting. As the situation develops, the information will be updated. n KIOSK solutions 7news KIOSK solutions Email editor.kiosk@abacus-comms.co.uk if you have any news to share in the next issue of Kiosk Solutions Maximum flexibility with Star Micronics TSP700 printer A cloud-based visitor management solution creates not only a great first impression but also allows businesses to have a better understanding of who is visiting and when they plan to visit. With either a desktop or free-standing touchless self-check-in kiosk printing visitor passes or labels, this provides the ideal solution to ensure the safety of both staff and visitors by minimising contact points while enhancing the overall visitor experience. Forge Bluepoint is a cloud-based visitor management solution that offers access control integration and innovative features to make the visitor experience seamless. By providing insight on visitor numbers with real-time updates on planned visitors and tracking of unplanned visitor numbers, peak flows and dwell time, smart decisions on resourcing and utilisation can be taken. The solution provides a first-class visitor experience for a number of buildings across London including Aldgate Tower and the Citypoint building owned by Brookfield Properties. “It is by far the fastest, most reliable, easiest to learn and use system. It can be accessed from anywhere; permissions are easily managed by each tenant reception, plus the support is great and always there when needed.” Christina Matache, Front of House Manager, Aldgate Tower. On average, such buildings have over 6,000 visitors per month. A reliable kiosk printing solution is required to provide a seamless visitor experience. Forge turned to Star and has integrated the specialist packaged printer TSP743II HI X with CloudPRNT for its self-check-in kiosk. With a built-in HI X interface, the printer is cloud-ready and with its unique multifunctional capability provides a versatile printing solution. The versatility of the TSP743II HI X has enabled Forge to adapt to the changing operating environment. Typically printing badges for lanyards, there has been a recent shift towards the use of sticker labels/passes that can be custom branded. These negate the need for lanyards or pass holders which are expensive for one-time use and intensive and impractical to clean after every visitor, as Nick Claridge, Operations Manager at Forge, explains: “Working closely with Star allows Forge to react to the current climate. In particular, given the versatility of the TSP743II HI X we have been able to quickly respond with sticker labels providing a safer solution for visitor identification. Moreover, with such a robust printer offering greater paper roll capacity, we can confidently provide 6 -7,000 customers daily with a reliable service alongside a seamless visitor experience.” Working in partnership with Forge, Star can successfully support the delivery of Forge Bluepoint, as David Pearce, Technical Director, Star Micronics EMEA concludes: “Forge’s decision to standardise on the TSP700 printer affords them maximum flexibility with a printer which can be either horizontally or vertically mounted, or fitted behind a panel in the reception desk, electronic barrier, or in the kiosk itself. Furthermore, the CloudPRNT protocol allows Forge to print either locally or via their cloud-based system for guaranteed printing with full printer status for paper low, paper end etc.” n EIZO announces DuraVision award win EIZO has announced that its DuraVision FDF2711W-IP monitor won the Electronic Security Expo (ESX) Innovation Award in the category of video surveillance. The ESX Innovation Awards program recognises innovation in electronic security and identifies next-generation products and services that will help advance the industry forward. Candidates for the award were assessed based on the benefits they provide to end-users, as well as to dealers and integrators. The DuraVision FDF2711W-IP won in the Video Surveillance category, which covers monitors, cameras, video management software, and other hardware and software solutions related to surveillance systems. The 27-inch DuraVision FDF2711W-IP connects directly to an IP camera or switch to display video streams over a network. It does not require a PC, software, or other hardware to operate, greatly simplifying installation and saving time and labour costs. This also eliminates several points of failure by heavily reducing the amount of equipment needed compared to a conventional setup. n 8 KIOSK solutionsnews BIXOLON launches XD5-40t thermal transfer label and barcode printer to the European market BIXOLON Europe GmbH, a subsidiary of BIXOLON Co. Ltd, has announced the launch of the XD5-40t, a 4-inch (118mm) mid-level Thermal Transfer Desktop Label Printer, featuring a rugged, compact, clamshell design and all-inclusive software features, ideal for barcode and labelling applications for the transport and logistics, manufacturing, healthcare and retail industries. Available as the XD5-40t (203dpi) and XD5-43t (300dpi) options, the XD5-40t’s standard model (XD5-40t) offers accelerated data processing and print speeds of up to 6 ips (152mm/sec) while boasting enhanced memory space of up to 256MB SDRAM and 256 MB Flash, ideal for high volume barcoding to shelf edge labelling. The XD5-40t user-friendly design offers a toolless field- installable peeler, auto-cutter and external paper supply. Optional LCD display, an adjustable paper guide and media roll diameter space of up to 127mm, suitability for both 1/2-inch and 1-inch core ribbons (74 m and 300 m ribbon length) and enhanced ribbon handling with the new ribbon left-right balance. Alongside by Smart Media Detection for the automatic media detection of Gap, Black Mark, Continuous or Notch media formats. Boasting multi-level connectivity and ease of integration, the XD5-40t comes with dual USB2.0 and USB Host as standard, plus optional, dual-WLAN, dual-bluetooth, serial or ethernet. The USB host port allows the duplication of existing printer settings and data to other estate printers through its twin function. The barcode and label are compatible with market leading programming languages including SLCS, BPL-Z and BPL-E. The printer is accompanied with comprehensive firmware and software options, including BIXOLON’s XPM web-based printer profile management, Simple Network Management Protocol (MIB file) and SoftAP and Smart Connection for easy Wi-Fi setup, alongside compatibility with label design software including BIXOLON’s Label Artist-II and BarTender. “The XD-40t is a rugged, versatile mid-range desktop labelling and barcoding solution,” cites Charlie Kim, Managing Director, BIXOLON Europe GmbH. “With a compact clamshell design and user-centric features, the desktop label printer offers a solid performance Thermal Transfer printing solution for any label printing application.” n KIOSK solutions 9 Pyramid Computer GmbH signs distribution deal with Pinntec Ltd Pyramid Computer GmbH has announced a new distribution deal with Pinntec Ltd for its kiosk, industrial PC and server products. The deal appoints Pinntec as the exclusive distributor for all Pyramid products in the UK and Republic of Ireland. The deal is part of the Pyramid strategy to link with local market experts in multiple sectors to expand sales. It comes close on the back of the deal to develop the Pyramid brand in the USA. Pinntec will provide sales, marketing and operational support for Pyramid products from its base in Leicestershire. Graeme Derby, previously UK Country Manager for Pyramid will join Pinntec to spearhead the development of the Pyramid brand across various targeted sectors in the UK and Republic of Ireland. He joins Paul Dennis, recently recruited from Walmart. Josef Schneider, CEO Pyramid Computer GmbH, said. “Our strategy is to use local market experts to develop our presence in key markets. The UK is an important market for us and is one of the leading markets for the development of self-service technology. We are delighted to link with Pinntec as they have the right amount of knowledge and resource to support our expansion.” Neil Tittensor, Managing Director of Pinntec said. “The link with Pyramid is another big step for Pinntec. We have always admired their products and we see this as a great opportunity for us to expand our offer to our customer base and assist with accelerating the trend towards self- service. The partnership will bring variety and innovation to the self- service technology market.” Pyramid Computer GmbH is a privately owned German company which designs and manufactures self-service touchscreens and kiosks, primarily for the retail and hospitality sectors. With over 30 years’ experience in the field, it is one of the leading manufacturers in the world. Under its Polytouch brand, it has supplied self-service kiosks to a number of high profile customers such as AMC, Marks and Spencer and Sofology. Pinntec Ltd is a privately owned UK business based in Leicestershire. It specialises in the automation of non-value services and provides choice, control and flexibility to a wide variety of processes and requirements, including Order Points, Help Points, Registration kiosks etc. It works with a number of large organisations across multiple sectors that aim to improve services and reduce operational cost through an established network of partners, brands and direct customers. nNext >