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We've pulled together some Frequently Asked Questions in this blog entry. If there's something you want to know that's not here, please use our contact details at the bottom of the page to get in touch and we'll get right back to you.
So what exactly is a ColliderCase?
ColliderCase is a system that enables real museum objects to be augmented using rich digital content, such as text, illustrations, animations, video and sound. The display case itself can be bought specially, or the system can be placed inside an existing showcase (subject to a few conditions). Your museum object(s) are placed in the case and the digital media appears on a vertical plane in line with the objects, meaning that it can interact with the objects, highlighting and interpreting particular features, showing how mechanisms work and even translating documents, to give just a few examples. The flexibility of the system means that interpretive content can be designed to best reflect the stories you want to tell in the most effective way for each particular object.
All the images and video on your website show the objects in a dark environment. Does the case need to be so dark?
No. The images and video showing the ColliderCase technology are only dark to help us get the best quality photos and videos for promotional use. The actual case is no darker than a normal display case and can be placed anywhere in a gallery space with access to electricity (see below).
What power requirements does a ColliderCase need?
Each ColliderCase needs to be plugged into the mains electricity and it is preferential to have an internet connection (this can be 4G, wireless or ethernet). That's it. One plug, one (optional) internet connection, nice and simple.
My objects are delicate - what impact does ColliderCase technology have on them?
Because the digital content is not actually inside the case with the object (it only looks like it is), the conservation envelope of the case is unaffected. We have all the documentation and test certificates available so you can have complete confidence that the environmental conditions inside the case will keep your objects safe. You can read more about how ColliderCase works for conservation and object care here
Can I re-use a ColliderCase for a different object?
Yes! This is one of the big advantages of using a ColliderCase over traditional graphic panels and digital content. You can swap objects in and out, giving maximum flexibility and long term value for money. And as everything is integrated into the one case, the whole thing can be moved around a gallery space as needed, for example, adding extra content to an existing exhibition without the need to re-organize the rest of the display, or providing a star object with that much needed rich interpretation.
Do visitors need any special equipment to use a ColliderCase?
No. Everything is contained inside the case, so there's no need for hand-held devices or special glasses. This means that your visitors' attention remains firmly on the objects themselves, rather than being distracted by other devices, equipment or external graphic panels or screens.
How many people can use a ColliderCase at once?
A display case fitted with the ColliderCase system needs to be viewed from the front to see the digital content, much like a traditional display case with an object label. Because the content is displayed on the same plane as the object, it's much easier for multiple visitors to enjoy the interpretation the same time, making it group and family friendly.
Do I need to rely on technical experts every time I want to update my content?
No. The ColliderCase system comes with bespoke content management software, which has been designed for non-technical specialists to use. This means you can update content in-house and from any computer connected to the internet at no extra cost. All common media formats are supported, giving you the freedom to start creating and uploading text, images, video and animation to bring your objects to life. Of course, if you would rather the content is made for you, our creative content specialists will be happy to do so. Click here to read more about how ColliderCase works with content and media.
How can I use ColliderCase to target different audiences?
Each ColliderCase can be fitted with a sensor to detect and respond to different audience segments, as designated by you. This could be used to deliver different content to different age groups, or cater to specialist interest visitors or those who need large type. Foreign visitors could automatically be given information in their native language. All this can be delivered within the footprint of a single display case, enabling you to cater for a wide range of visitors, without compromising on exhibition space. You can read more about how ColliderCase works with audience targeting here.
How do I know if my visitors are engaging with the digital content?
Each ColliderCase can also be fitted with a sensor to gather detailed visitor data, such as approximate age, gender, number of visits and unique visits, group size and engagement time. This means you can make informed decisions about your content, how well it is working for you and which areas you might want to refresh or update. We call this system iotaCase and it can also be installed in traditional display cases to gather the same data. Click here to read more about how iotaCase works withColliderCase to gather and use visitor analytics.
This all sounds great, how do I find out more?
You can check out the videos on the right hand side of the page here to give you an idea of how the technology can be adapted for optimum interpretation of different types of objects.
Use our contact form to drop us a line, or call us on 01904 500503. We'd love to hear from you.
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