Former SIAT students create interactive campus guide

posted: august 18. 2008

Gordon Manson and Matt Jeffrey, who graduated from the school of interactive arts and technology this spring, have signed an agreement with SFU to develop software for an interactive map. The map, which will be housed in a kisok on the mezzanine level of the campus, will include such functions as room search, room information, current events and advising centre information. The system will even use artificial intelligence technology to map out the best route from the user’s current position to where they want to go, says SFU Surrey facilities manager Marie Schneider.

The project was created for a fourth-year interdisciplinary design course, Manson says. “I came into SIAT excited about the prospect of building new systems. During my studies, I have always had that perspective of taking what I learned from each course and applying it to a business after I graduated from SIAT. An associate of mine proposed developing signage for a project he was working on, so I thought to myself how I could make it work in an interactive educational environment. I realized in such an environment, electronic signage may want to introduce itself to users. I reasoned what better way for technology to personify itself than with the use of a map to describe what it is, and where it and the user can find a relationship with each other.”

Schneider says that SFU will provide the touch screen monitor and computer for one kiosk, as well as background maps and room information while Manson and Jeffrey focus on the software and the interface. Subject to availability of funds, more kiosks may be added, she says.

“When you first come to this campus you are struck by its unique architectural beauty,” Schneider says. “But you might also be stuck finding your way around because of its atypical shape and structure. SFU is excited to be able to work with our own students to develop a wayfinding system that showcases not only the building but especially our talented graduates. This is knowledge in action.”

Manson says SIAT was an ideal environment in which to come up with the interactive wayfinder concept. “I was able to take studies involving User Interface, Software and Hardware Design/Programming, and Business Development, all of which have helped in this project's genesis.” As to where the project goes in the future, “There is a lot of user testing and iterative design that needs to be done but we also realize that this process can literally go on forever, no project can ever truly be complete in my estimation. So this will be a continually evolving work that marches along with technology,” Manson says.