The Fernbank Museum of Natural History Goes Mobile, Crawford Media Services Helps Re-Invent Museum

Jan. 11, 2013 - PRLog -- Crawford Media Services recently completed work on a new Mobile Application for The Fernbank Museum of Natural History. Using innovative and highly accurate location-based technology, the application and Wi-Fi network (free to the public) went live on November 16, 2012.

Crawford collaborated with AT&T, Cisco and Meridian to bring Fernbank’s vision of a new kind of learning experience to life. The Crawford team provided content creation and design for The Meridian Mobility platform. The Meridian platform and content management system allowed Crawford to focus on the user experience and the design of walk-through companions including gamified content for one of the key features, The Paleontologist’s Journal.

Exploring the Museum as a paleontologist will be the first journal experience, which includes a combination of audio, video, touch-screen interactives, animation, sketchbook activities and location based question-and-answer challenges. This unique experience is available via the Fernbank Meridian application for both iOS and Android.

Crawford Media Services Creative Director, Jim Bowhall, who worked with the team at Fernbank to develop the content said, “One of the goals of this project was to create and introduce a platform for growth, using cutting edge technology and engaging content.  The platform will expand and grow over time, allowing for continued development of limitless experiences for scientists and knowledge seekers of all ages.”

Other members of the Crawford team included Lead Developer Andrew Enyart and User Experience Designer, Michael Allenberg.

The new Fernbank app uses the intelligence of the Wi-Fi network to triangulate and deliver pin-point information to visitors and allows them to experience the museum in new ways. This includes initiating multimedia content as the visitor walks up to static exhibits. Special “Journals” that are customized and focused on scientific disciplines aid in educating users with the option of sharing their experience through social media feeds.

About Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Atlanta’s Fernbank Museum of Natural History inspires discovery and exploration through award-winning exhibitions, IMAX® films, and innovative programs that engage visitors of all ages in learning about the planet and its inhabitants.  Visitors come face to face with the world’s largest dinosaurs, explore the development of life on Earth through Georgia’s modern landscapes, connect with cultures from around the world, and engage in learning through a variety of science-based, hands-on programs.

Fernbank also features a world-renowned archaeology collection and research program, as well as the country’s largest undisturbed urban Piedmont forest—unparalleled resources that help the museum offer experiences that stimulate learning through science, nature and human culture. Fernbank is accredited by the American Association of Museums, a distinction awarded to fewer than 5 percent of museums nationwide. More information on Fernbank Museum can be found at http://www.fernbankmuseum.org.

About Crawford Media Services

Crawford Media Services, Inc. is an Atlanta based, privately held company and proven leader in the electronic media services industry whose mission is to provide creative, turn-key electronic media solutions for television, film, Internet and archival clients. Crawford has offered premium post-production services and media management solutions to domestic and international clients for over 30 years. More information about Crawford and the services they offer can be found at www.crawford.com

If you would like more information about this topic please contact Tracie Kriete at 678-536-4918 or email info@mail.crawford.com