How GeoParks are Using Location-Based Apps to Enhance Visitor Experiences
Geoparks around the world are increasingly turning to location-based apps and gamification to enhance visitor experiences. These technologies have the potential to provide interactive and engaging ways for visitors to learn about the geology, ecology, and cultural heritage of a geopark.
Gamification
Gamification is a great tool for geoparks to improve visitor experiences by incorporating game-like elements and competition into non-game contexts. By incorporating game elements such as challenges, rewards, and leaderboards into the visitor experience, geoparks can make learning about geology, ecology, and cultural heritage more engaging and interactive. This is great for school groups, scouts, and other information seekers looking for a fun way to learn about the surrounding environment.
One example of a geopark that is using location-based apps and gamification to enhance the visitor experience is the MAGMA UNESCO Global Geopark in southwest Norway. The geopark has developed a mobile app that provides visitors with information about the geology, ecology, geofood, and cultural heritage of the geopark. The app also includes five games that challenge visitors to complete tasks and solve puzzles in order to earn points and climb the leaderboard.
“MAGMA UNESCO Global Geopark have worked with Locatify in numerous projects related to GPS based systems to optimize our visitors experience in our geologically and culturally unique area. Both with guests and schoolchildren, as well as local residents, we find the Locatify apps and systems to be easy to use, highly educational and to enhance the possibility to explore hidden gems.” – Cathrine Johannessen Skogen, Manager, MAGMA UNESCO Global Geopark
Location-Based Information
Location-based information provides informative contextual information and enables a safe and efficient way of exploring geoparks. The Locatify system makes it easy for park managers to identify important landmarks, historical sites, and other important points of interest, such as amenities like toilets and camping sites.
A great example of location-based information is the Sea to Sky Fire & Ice App. This app includes a complete list of GeoSites as points of interests which can be visited using GPS, or learnt about virtually. The app provides curated north to south route which makes up the backbone of the geopark, allowing guests to explore in an efficient manner. The tour can be further enhanced or adapted for different audiences by adding gamification elements such as challenges and a scoreboard.
“The set up of our Locatify branded app has been an efficient and positive experience. We were able to easily integrate our unique identity and ideas into the template and when we had questions and requests, the staff were responsive with personalized tutorials. The approachable Creator CMS system allows us to be dynamic, updating our content and tours quickly and efficiently as needed. To this point, we are very impressed with the functionality and services provided by Locatify and the app and look forward to future possibilities for our Geopark.” – Steve Quane, Head Geologist, Sea to Sky Fire & Ice Aspiring Geopark
Nova Scotia’s Cliffs of Fundy created themed self-guided audio tours, providing information about the geological features, wildlife, and history of the area. Their app also included multimedia content, such as photos and videos, and tide information for informing visitors about the world’s highest tides – a unique phenomenon local to the Bay of Fundy.
“We chose Locatify for their reputation and experience working with Geoparks from around the world. We are confident that our new app will enhance the experiences of our visitors.“ – Don Fletcher, President, Cliffs of Fundy Geopark
These examples illustrate how geoparks are successfully using location-based apps and gamification to enhance the visitor experience. Locatify is proud to have the trust of a number of the world’s most prominent geoparks, ensuring they have the right tools to engage with their audiences. By providing interactive and engaging ways for visitors to learn about the geology, ecology, and cultural heritage of a geopark, these technologies have the potential to greatly enhance the visitor experience and promote a deeper appreciation of the natural world. Thank you to our trusted partners!
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