Edmonton mall map system aids shoppers

West Edmonton Mall has launched a high-tech map system to aid shoppers in finding their way around the largest shopping center in North America.

Visiting the center can become quite a daunting experience as shoppers try to navigate an area the size of 48 city blocks, with more than 800 stores.  To overcome this problem, Triple Five Corp., owners of the mall, have introduced a high-tech direction system.  It consists of two high resolution screens measuring 65-inches each, with a touch-screen facility which can be used by two people simultaneously, Edmonton Journal says.

The first of the kiosks is situated close to the Ice Palace, outside Zara on Level Two.  It is envisaged that 20 kiosks will become available over the next six-month period. The interactive map indicates the routes to restrooms, stores and elevators.

This method allows the mall management to update the system as tenants move about or move in and out of the center.  

The system cost the owners $300000, with a total project cost of more than $1m.  However, the technology will be used at two other facilities, American Dream Meadowlands in New Jersey and the Mall of America in Minnesota.

The system uses Android devices for communication and this allows visitors to download directions, send coupons and digital content directly to their mobile phones.