Bolton Information Network

The Requirement

The Bolton Information Network is a borough wide partnership, involving organisations from local government, health, voluntary and the private sectors. With ownership of PC's and access to the internet limited, alternative ways of disseminating information about services in the region were needed.

The Solution

Strategically sited kiosks run a combination of multimedia and Internet software. Providing access to Bolton's ethnic minorities required the kiosks to include content in Gujarati and Urdu. The kiosk software developed by Amatica features topics such as council services, local community groups and facilities, and local adult training and education opportunities. In addition, the Benefits Agency touchscreen product 'Wings', was incorporated into the kiosk system to help benefit claimants more fully understand the claims system and their entitlements.

The Outcome

The software was designed for ease-of-use by non-computer literate users who formed the major part of the audience group. Bright and attractive software screens and screen savers as well as intuitive navigation systems mean that users are not intimidated and can find information easily.