The University of Helsinki currently has around 20 information displays, which can be divided into three categories. Wayfinding displays feature a touch interface and provide visitors on campus with map services. Event displays communicate in real time and interactively what is happening on campus. Communication displays can be used to present, for example, current bulletins or emergency notifications.
Unigrafia is actively involved in designing the map services offered on wayfinding displays, implementing the user interfaces and creating the graphic appearance.
“The collaboration began at the start of 2017. Along the way, we’ve worked closely with the client to understand their needs and aimed to design the layout to be as user-friendly and clear as possible,”
says Unigrafia’s creative Mari Lindgren, and continues:
“Now we’ve designed map layouts and user interfaces for touch-screen wayfinding displays. For the event displays, we’ve created the base layout into which event information is brought.”
Wayfinding displays also work on mobile devices via a QR code, increasing their usability even further. For communication displays, Unigrafia has also created digital platforms – so-called templates – for use by the University of Helsinki.
Power in collaboration
“Unigrafia’s involvement in the University of Helsinki’s information display project has been fruitful. The university receives content and communication services from Unigrafia and we’ve been very satisfied with the work: everything has gone smoothly with Unigrafia.
We’ve received technical support, for example, and exactly what we ordered,”
says Jyri Poittinen from the University of Helsinki’s Facilities and Properties Services.
Unigrafia is also looking ahead when it comes to information displays. The service model, division of labour and automation are being developed as a continuous process.
More displays coming soon
The University of Helsinki plans to install a full set of all three types of displays in all its locations. In addition, there are special sites, such as the National Library of Finland and the Finnish Museum of Natural History LUOMUS, where Unigrafia’s involvement in the content and interfaces of the information displays will increase further. Around 60 of the university’s major properties are currently in the project pipeline. The university’s target timeline for installing the displays is autumn 2018.
Information displays are useful
“In 2018, we will also conduct a user study on the new information displays; the previous one was done in 2014. At that time, these three display categories were considered very necessary,”
says Poittinen from the University of Helsinki, and adds:
“All the building-related information is made public, and students no longer need to, for example, ask the porters. One purpose of the displays is also to spark curiosity and interest in events and bulletins, encouraging students to visit the intranet to learn more.”
For Unigrafia, the university’s information displays represent yet another area of expertise: the development of digital content and user interfaces for new media platforms. This collaboration further expands Unigrafia’s competence in the field of digital communication services.