Are Interactive Touch Screen Kiosks Safe During COVID-19?

The pandemic has changed our lives drastically. Health and surviving the pandemic has become the biggest concern of our global community. 

Our health sectors were overwhelmed and paralyzed, and people needed to take responsibility for their own wellbeing. In addition, face-to-face interactions were also kept to an absolute minimum for fear of contracting the virus. Thus, we are re-evaluating and coming up with new ways to combat the pandemic. 

Smart Touch, for example, is a technological solution that remains widespread during the pandemic. Smart touch is an interactive screen kiosk, but is it a pandemic-proofing solution? 

These kiosks can provide a more secure environment for people during a pandemic because it can reduce the chances virus spread. In addition, it can be an option for people who are in places where they do not have access to computers or cell phones.

In this article, we will talk about it with the pros and cons of it from a COVID-19 perspective. 

What are Interactive Touch Screen Kiosks?

An interactive touch screen kiosk is a digital display that responds to the pressure from the touch of a finger or a stylus. It allows users to complete a task or a transaction and often uses a WiFi connection. 

This makes it possible for people to access information on the internet easily, use software applications, and play games without having to go through tedious procedures. There are different types of interactive touch screen kiosks. Some of these are as follows:

1. Smart Touch: This is a touch screen kiosk that can be controlled using a mobile phone or computer. This makes it possible for people to access their information and applications even when they are on the go.

2. Artificial Intelligence Touch: This is a touch screen kiosk that has the capability of detecting the touch of the user. This makes it possible for people to use their interactive touch screen kiosk even when they are in a place where they do not have access to computers or smartphones.

3. Touch Screen Kiosk: This is a touch screen kiosk that is used by businesses and organizations. This makes it possible for organizations to offer different services and applications that their customers can access.

According to REV Interactive, there are several interactive kiosks types you can see, such as:

1. 17 Inch Airport Restaurant Cell Phone Charging Station

2. 19 Inch Digital Internet Information Interactive Kiosk

3. 42 Inch IR Touch Coffee Table

4. 47 Inch Rotating IR Touch Information Kiosk (Scan Printing)

5. 55 Inch Nano Touch Mirror Surface, etc. 

Purpose of Interactive Kiosk – 7 Ways You Can Use With Digital Signage Solutions

The purpose of interactive kiosks is to make it possible for people to access their information and applications. In addition, this makes it possible for organizations to offer different services and applications that their customers can access.  

Digital kiosks can be used in a variety of different settings, including retail stores, restaurants, airports, hotels, airports, transportation terminals, stadiums, retail locations, amusement parks, office buildings, and trade shows. It will provide the customer with interactive digital smart signage. There are several purposes of the interactive kiosk, such as:

1. Information Display

Interactive display used to display information about products and services, as well as to attract consumers’ attention. The digital display can be used in different ways to provide the consumer with information. The information may be displayed in different forms, such as text, graphics, video, or animation.

2. Ordering food

Interactive kiosks can be used to order food and drinks. Interactive kiosks can help the consumer to order food and beverages by allowing them to select their meal or drink and provide payment information, such as credit cards or cash.

3. Self-service Checkout for Retail

Self-service checkouts are available in some retail stores, which allow the consumer to check out products or services by using interactive kiosks. Retail digital signage is a good investment and a key asset for many businesses today.

4. Ticket Sales

Ticket sales are also possible through interactive kiosks. The interactive kiosks can be used to display information about the upcoming event or trade shows, as well as the price of tickets. The kiosks can also be used to process payment.

5. Wayfinding

Interactive kiosks can be used to provide access and information about locations, such as amenities, shops, and services. They are great for patrons in a large shopping mall or at public transport stations. 

6. Customer service

Interactive kiosks can be used to provide customer service and display answers to frequently asked questions. This negates the need for customer service staff on site all the time.

7. Interactive games

Interactive games can be used to entertain consumers. It’s a creative use of kiosks and we can see it becoming more and more popular. It can be used as a marketing tool as well, to entice customers to enter a business premise. 

So, Are Interactive Touch Screen Kiosks Safe During COVID-19?

Pros of Touch Screen Kiosks During COVID-19

During Covid-19, the touch screen kiosks bring some benefits, such as being cost-effective, efficient, high-tech, simple to use and portable. It is easy to use and very convenient for customers to complete their transactions with these kiosks. 

The touch screen kiosks are simple to use and provide the customer with an interactive experience when they are making purchases or when they are searching for information.

Touch screen kiosks are not just for consumers to use. They can also be used by the business owners to improve their businesses. Touch screen kiosks can be used to improve business processes, such as inventory management, customer service and advertising. Businesses can also use interactive kiosks to provide valuable information about their products and services.

Here are the pros of touch screen kiosks during COVID-19:

1. Reduction in Manpower 

There is a great reduction in manpower, which is needed to be employed in retail locations and other retail establishments. Touch screen kiosks have been the main reason for the decline of manpower in these types of places. With touch screen kiosks, there is no need for a cashier. The touch screen kiosk can handle all the functions that a cashier would usually do. Moreover, it will decrease the cost of labour for businesses.

2. Less Face to Face Interaction

The interaction with consumers is reduced to almost zero. This means that there is no need for employees to make direct contact with the customers. With touch screen kiosks, they can interact through the machine instead of face to face. This is very helpful during the pandemic and to help transition back to normal life in the post-pandemic landscape.

3. Simple and Easy to Use

Touch screen kiosks are very easy to use. The customers do not need to be taught how to use the touch screen kiosk. They can simply follow the instructions on the screen and do what they need to do. Touch screen kiosks are also very portable, which means that they can be used in different places.

4. Lower Risk of Virus Transmission

Touch screen kiosks are easy to clean. The touch screen kiosk does not require much effort to be cleaned. Touch screen kiosks are easy to clean and disinfect. This means that there is a lower risk of virus transmission. Also, if your business attaches hand sanitizer to the side of the kiosk, customers can disinfect their hands before and after using the kiosk. 

5. Easy to Maintain

Touch screen kiosks are easy to maintain. They can be easily fixed if there is a problem with the touch screen kiosk. Most of the time, the softwares might require updates and most can be configured from afar as well. Plus, as long as the screen has not sustained damage, the hardware maintenance required for these kiosks is minimal.

6. Saves Time in the Long Run

There is a great time save with the touch screen kiosk. The touch screen kiosk can be used to complete transactions like that would usually be done by a cashier. Time saving is very helpful during the pandemic.

Cons of Touch Screen Kiosks During COVID-19

Although there are many pros about this product, there are a few things that must be considered and taken into account. Is it in the best interest of your business to invest in this digital signage solution?

1. Still a Point of Shared Contact

Touch screen kiosks, at the end of the day, are still a shared point of contact. In some cases, a touch screen kiosk can be shared by several people at the same time. It can be a hazard if there are several people working on the touch screen kiosk at the same time. Plus, the virus still can be  transmitted through affected surfaces if sanitization is not properly carried out.

2. Certain Users May Take Up Time

Older people, people with mobility issues or those who are just unfamiliar with touch screen kiosks might end up taking a longer time when using the kiosk. This can set a queue back by a wide margin if there are not enough kiosks available for use. The resulting queue is not conducive to social distancing efforts.

3. Requires Staff Supervision

Manpower is still required in that staff need to supervise customers who are using the kiosks. If there is a problem with the touch screen kiosk, the staff needs to be trained on how to deal with the problem. Staff supervision is still needed in case things go wrong, or if the line is being held up.

4. Security Concerns

Security might be an issue if the touch screen kiosks are not protected. If there is a problem with the touch screen kiosk, it will be hard to keep it secure. Touch screen kiosks are often used in public places where they can be seen by others. 

Pros vs Cons Summary: Touch Screen Kiosks During Covid-19

Safety Measures for Using Touch Screen Kiosks

Safety is very important in using touch screen kiosks, especially during this pandemic. Customers, as the main users of touch screen kiosks, must always ensure safety in using it. Although touch screen kiosks are quite safe products, there are several things that can be considered to improve user safety, such as:

1. Sanitizing Stations

There is a need to have a sanitizing station in the area where touch screen kiosks are being used. It is necessary to clean the touch screen kiosk frequently and this will prevent the spread of infection. Putting hand sanitizer next to the kiosk would be very helpful. Moreover, it will help to maintain a safe environment for customers who are using touch screen kiosks.

2. Social Distancing Tape

There is a need to have social distancing tape around the touch screen kiosk. This will prevent customers from getting too close to the touch screen kiosk. Moreover, it will be easy for staff to supervise customers who are using touch screen kiosks and do crowd control.

3. Cleaning the Touch Screen Regularly

Touch screen kiosks will be exposed to many things and these can include dust, germs, and other particles. This will lead to the spread of infection and this will also cause irritation for customers. Therefore, it is important to clean the touch screen kiosks regularly and this will help to maintain a safe environment.

4. Antimicrobial Screen Covers

Establishments can consider using antimicrobial screen covers for touch screen kiosks. These easy-to-apply adhesive layers can prevent the spread of infection. This is because pathogens or viruses cannot survive for long on its surface.

5. Install Multiple Kiosks for Maximum Efficiency

Install multiple touch screen kiosks in a public place if there is a crowd problem. This will increase the efficiency of the kiosks and this will also reduce the time that it takes to perform complete transactions. It will also help to provide more security for customers who are using touch screen kiosks as there will be fewer queues.

6. Consider Location

It is important to consider the location to install a touch screen kiosk. The location of touch screen kiosks should be chosen carefully. In case of a queue, the space should be wide enough and properly ventilated. This will also help to maintain a safe environment for customers who are using touch screen kiosks. You can also consider placing it outside.

7. Other Features to Consider

i. Face recognition system

Face recognition system is not only used to unlock the touch screen kiosk but also to reduce physical contact. The face recognition system will use a camera, and it will be used to identify the customer. Moreover, it will help to maintain a safe environment for customers who are using touch screen kiosks.

ii. Gesture sensing

Gesture sensing is a system that uses a motion sensor to detect the gestures. 

iii. Voice activation

Voice activation is a system that uses voice recognition to control the touch screen kiosk.

iv. Smartphone Connectivity

Smartphone connectivity is a function that allows smartphone apps to control the touch screen kiosk. Users can connect to the kiosk using their phone and this will reduce the risk of infection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, touch screen kiosks can be a very useful product for many people and businesses. However, it is important to consider safety measures when implementing touch screen kiosks, and these can help to maintain a safe environment in the post-pandemic environment.

There are some important factors that need to be considered when using touch screen kiosks. If you want to find the right developer for your touch screen kiosks, contact us!

Rev Interactive can provide you with some great options for touch screen kiosks and address any doubts you may have about the product and its features.