Article

Small companies and all-in-one kiosks

Smaller kiosk manufacturers woo buyers.

January 8, 2008

Dozens of small parts make up a car engine. But most people who end up buying that car never see the vehicle's makeup or know where it came from. The buyer typically takes the car and begins using it immediately.

 

Several self-service manufacturers are providing retailers and other kiosk users a similar deal — no assembly required. The all-in-one kiosk is an automated device that has a software program installed and then is placed in a public environment where it works as a customer-facing self-service device without any other pieces needed.

 

IBM and NCR have been leading complete kiosk providers for years, but several smaller companies have been able to stay in the game. Planar Systems, SeePoint Technology and Flytech Technology are a handful of smaller companies that are able to compete against conglomerates by offering personalized service and other special features that larger companies sometimes overlook.

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"The kiosk industry requires a hands-on approach with your clients," said Jeff Goldstein, account manager for SeePoint Technology. "(Our) dedication to and experience in the kiosk industry gives us an advantage in tailoring a solution to meet our clients' needs."

 

The VantagePoint is SeePoint's signature self-service kiosk. Some of its features include a high-power/low-heat-generating motherboard, patented side pivots for different viewing angles and fully assembled kiosk shipping.

 

Goldstein said SeePoint's customer service includes pre-loading and testing the kiosk's software applications prior to shipping to ensure it works upon arrival. In addition, remote management services allow SeePoint to service the kiosks remotely and to upload and download additional content.

 

"This service provides a ‘no touch' approach to our clients when it comes to manufacturing, deploying and maintaining the kiosk hardware," Goldstein said.

 

Pricing and production flexibility are traits that help smaller companies compete, said Hermes Huang, Flytech Technology's kiosk sales manager.

 

Flytech's K895 kiosk includes a 19-inch LCD display surrounded by a steel enclosure, large access back door with locks and keys, internal peripherals with modular design for easy and quick maintenance and framework to fit in most public indoor access areas.

 

Planar Systems is a focused display and digital signage company that offers a full solution that solves customer problems, said Ben Joy, Planar's senior marketing manager.

 

One of Planar's unique features is its content creation software that allows users to create interactive kiosk surveys.

 

"We add value by being nimble and listening to our channel partners," Hasuo said. "Planar offers the flexibility of a startup, with the financial backing of a successful NASDAQ company."

 

Not all small companies try to make it on their own in the industry. Some businesses manufacture kiosks on their own and partner with larger companies such as IBM and NCR.

 

"We feel IBM and NCR have a great product and knowledge of the self-service industry," said Chris Gilder, chief executive officer of Meridian Kiosks. "We feel fortunate to be able to work alongside them when opportunities arise."

 

The Monarch is Meridian Kiosks' signature design. It combines stylish appeal, flexibility and durability, Gilder said.

 

He said so many applications are out there for kiosks and new ones are being created all the time. Any application that helps users make more effective use of their time and improve the customer experience from ticket purchasing to bill payment is a good thing. And partnering with large companies is sometimes the best way to accomplish that.

 

"We typically don't find ourselves competing with IBM and NCR but working with them to build a kiosk around their all-in-one units that meets their clients needs exactly," Gilder said.