The implementation of information kiosks in Singapore: an exploratory study

Information kiosks are machines that can disseminate information, handle tr ansactions or perform both functions. For the purpose of our study, these k iosks are classified into four different types of information kiosks with r espect to the functions that they perform. These four types of kiosks are b asic information kiosks, high transactional kiosks, high information dissem ination kiosks and high-end kiosks. Interviews with companies that have imp lemented such kiosks will shed light into the motivations behind firms that have implemented such information kiosks as well as the firms' considerati on and benefits derived. Notes taking were used during interview sessions w ith firms. Based on the results of our analysis, we recommend to firms that intend to implement information kiosks that they should carry out more pub licity as most people indicated that they would respond positively to publi city of the machines. Also, they should install signboards near the kiosks so those users can find the places of kiosks and identify the locations mor e easily. Others include the inclusion of other languages and provision of more privacy features. Finally, we list down some factors of consideration for firms that are considering setting up kiosks. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.