Technology Trends: The Rise of Digital Kiosks

In an ever-evolving customer-centric landscape, digital kiosks are helping to guarantee efficiency, security, and even wellbeing during these ongoing uncertain times. Digital kiosks can run the gamut to cover most use cases and sceneries, from all-in-one models to integrated systems. Tech innovations include digital screens with antimicrobial coating and shatterproof glass, contactless ordering, and improved payment competencies.  The pandemic has undeniably changed the use of digital signage, with the most important change being the uptick in the use of videoconferencing. With our lack of ability to travel, network in person, and keep in contact with consumers, peers, family, and associates, videoconferencing via FaceTime, Zoom, Google Meet, and other digital platforms has become commonplace. Furthermore, with organizations that are using digital kiosks, we have seen improved analytics that is allowing companies to mine and evaluate historical consumer data to deliver effectively and targeted tailored content. Digital kiosks will continue to surge in popularity for a swarm of reasons, including ease of use, adaptableness, and their role in perfecting the shopper experience for numerous industries. The challenges of a socially distanced world have undoubtedly fueled our design efforts to introduce digital technology that is safe, secure, and easy to use. The digitization of the hospitality and retail world continues to inspire and stimulate us to think outside the box and to discover not simply what these digital kiosks should be but what they can do. Imagination in this sector will be the key to evolving products that stand the test of time and pave the way for more creative solutions. According to a recent study on checkout lines, 69 percent of customers said long lines were the most frustrating part of shopping. That beat out high price items (66 percent) and inventory being out of stock (65 percent). Eighty-four percent of those consumers said watching digital displays helped them pass the stretch while they waited. With self-service, companies can offer lower observed wait times. Long lines are adequate reasons to leave a business or institution. Therefore, every industry should be advancing in points of sale or offering self-checkout kiosks—anything to keep long lines from chasing off consumers. Individuals have a much easier time waiting in line when there’s something to take their mind off the real wait.