As the global pandemic shows signs of easing, theme parks and other leisure facilities around the world are beginning to reopen, although on a limited scale.
However, this doesn’t mean that it’s time to pull back on a focus on safety and technology solutions that can promote peace of mind for both employees and customers. In fact, it’s likely time to double down.
Data and experiences thus far indicate that there is likely to be an initial surge as popular facilities like beaches, fast food chains and large retailers begin opening their doors once again.
While pent-up demand is certainly present and ready to make itself known, this makes it more essential than ever for operators to be prepared to efficiently manage large numbers of customers. The goal is to welcome visitors back, yes, but to do it in such a way that they can enjoy experiences safely without the risk of spreading new infections.
The basics of the “new normal” are well documented, and an emphasis on social distancing, lower capacity, constant checks and strict hygiene will be required.
But the basics may not be enough. Instead, smart operators are turning to innovative technology to gain greater control and flexibility for safer reopening and operations.
Managing Crowds
Crowds are a natural and welcome sight in a theme park—but not during a pandemic.
By implementing the latest advanced access control and surveillance systems throughout the facility, operators can gain greater visibility into all areas and quickly respond to alerts regarding any risk of overcrowding. Surveillance systems can also be used for temperature screening or for identifying other symptoms of illness, providing an additional layer of protection.
Smart surveillance solutions provide essential real-time data to teams in control centers, improving the scope and quality of monitoring and ensuring a faster response to threats. No technological solution is complete without a thorough plan of action for putting it to work for your operation.
This approach will make it easier to manage access to the most popular areas of the facility and eliminate the risk of overcrowding. Measurable and actionable data will also help plan further improvements to facility management and crowd control as lockdown rules relax further, ensuring improvements brought about by these measure aren’t temporary.
Communication with Visitors
Information and communication are key elements in guiding visitors through a facility. Rather than relying on staff to shoulder the entire burden, video walls and other media display solutions can provide essential guidance, information and announcements.
Proximity detectors can activate video screens that present important information or display a “virtual guide” teleported from a remote location, boosting engagement while also serving a critical purpose.
Smartphone apps or smart handset technology linked to RFID systems can also be utilized to provide guidance and safety or exhibit information to visitors. Here, innovative technology reduces the need for physical interaction with guides, helping protect both staff and visitors.
Safer Interaction
Touchscreens and interactive displays are essential elements in delivering a great, engaging experience. However, COVID-19 has made any form of contact high risk. By deploying the latest touch-free technology or proximity sensors, operators can continue to provide interactive experiences, but in a safe way.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation can also be used to drive interactive and immersive experiences that don’t require person-to-person communication. And, augmented reality can be used to create exciting engaging virtual experiences by overlaying digital information over physical spaces.
By using this innovative technology, operators can maintain the quality of visitor engagement and experience while ensuring safety. Adopting touch-free technologies also has practical benefits, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and cleaning.
Partner with Electrosonic
Adopting innovative technologies is key to successful and safe re-opening after lockdown. Electrosonic can help, drawing on 55+ years’ experience in creating great experiences and a depth of expertise in these innovative technologies to help tailor the perfect solution for your operation’s unique needs. Our Technology Master Planning process can help develop and deliver the optimum solution for your leisure facility and help rebuild an exciting, safe and profitable business.
To see how Electrosonic can help you thrive during this reopening period, contact us today.
