Case Study: Callander Enterprise MiniGist
Company
Glasgow Caledonian University Experts
Background
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| Bluetooth technology allows tourists to download free information |
Callander Enterprise is an association of around 25 local businesses which has been meeting since 2005. It was formed to develop the business community in and around Callander.
It is a key member in the wider Destination Trossachs project and also provides assistance and advice to new start and young businesses through its management of the Trossachs Enterprise & Rural Mentoring Scheme (TERMS).
Callander Enterprise designed and launched a new website towards the end of 2007. It was during discussions about the further development of the website with KIT-OUT the Park, that the idea of investigating a new method of delivering information on special offers, late availability, what’s on, etc. for visitors to Callander was mooted.
The Project
Glasgow Caledonian University’s MUCom research group had recently developed MiniGIST – a Miniaturised Geographical Information System for Tourism. It is a free map-based system for mobile phones, allowing the visitor to quickly see the location of local businesses and get up to date information on local festivals, special offers, late availability of accommodation and lots more. Two key features which make the system unique are that the local businesses have complete control of the content and can update their information twice a day. By using Bluetooth, the MiniGIST system, as well as being totally secure, is completely free to the visitor, as there are no costly download or roaming charges – a key consideration for tourists using their mobile phones abroad.
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| The MiniGist system at Deli Ecosse |
Over the course of a number of meetings in early 2008, Callander Enterprise members worked closely with the MUCom research group to customise the system specifically for Callander. Stirling Council added its support to the pilot project by giving the group a grant to design and print posters, window stickers and brochures explaining how the system works. These are widely available throughout the town.
The pilot project went live at the end of May 2008 and was formally launched by the Provost of Stirling.
The Next Stage
The MUCom research group in conjunction with the participating businesses will monitor usage of the system and see how the use of new technology in delivering this type of local information enhances the visitor experience to Callander.
