CLIO Design Considerations

This is a list of major considerations that we feel need to be taken into account for CLIO to succeed within our host sites and the GLAM field at large. These are overarching themes, concepts and philosophies that we use to both expand and constrain our design, research and evaluation.

Versatility

Exhibits

CLIO should act as a framework that allows it to be integrated into many different types of exhibitions and activities. It should work in both a physical space, through a kiosk or terminal, as well as in the digital space, through a web page or integrated modules.

Technology

CLIO should aim to use versatile and modular technologies that don't just work to solve one problem, but help cultivate an ecosystem that can be used to solve many problems. Technologies should work natively across different platforms without requiring users to install additional software.

Scalability

Simplicity

Creating a new kiosk and a new interactive experience should be simple enough for a professional without extensive technology experience to accomplish out of the box by using the appropriate guides.

Reproducibility

Creating additional interactive should be a streamlined process that allows institutions to create kiosks both as-needed or in batches. The process of replicating and setting up a new kiosk should be the same each time.

Affordability

Creating a new kiosk should be an affordable solution that allows institutions to take into consideration the electronics they already have, or explore low-cost commodity hardware.

Sustainability

Repairable

Each part used for the prototype kiosk should be fabricated in-house or be standardized with reliable sourcing. Each kiosk should be modular and allow individual parts to be replaced as they are damaged or obsoleted.

Recyclable

When possible, parts used in the kiosk should be recyclable, compostable or have a sustainable and eco-conscious disposal solution.

Power Consumption

Each kiosk should efficiently manage its power usage and provide different options for powering it, including renewable energy solutions.

Environmental Impact

While it may not be possible to create a kiosk without any negative environmental impact, we can still work to understand the scope of the problem and minimize it.

Accessibility

Physical Kiosk

The prototype kiosk should be compact and lightweight, but still allow it to be easily gripped by visitors. It should be accessible with one hand and limited dexterity. It should provide access to content that engages multiple senses.

Interactive Interface

The interface should be responsive and only require one finger to fully engage with. It should contain a collection of basic direct access accommodations when used without personal assistive devices. The interface should be compatible with personal assistive devices and accessibility tools.

Learn by Doing

Accessibility is also ensuring that its users understand how it works. We should provide documentation related to creating and using the product, with accompanying resources such as video tutorials, guides, source code comments and a wiki.

Openness

Open Source Software

All software that is used within the CLIO project, whether it is an operating system or a library, should be open-source and released under the MIT, GPL, Apache or a similar permissive license. There should be no parts that require institutions to independently request licensing permissions to use this software for non-profit purposes.

Open Hardware

All hardware that is used with the POP project, whether it is a printable design or single-board computer, should not require the institution to independently request licensing permissions to use this hardware for non-profit purposes. This hardware should be based on open and publicly available design drawings and schematics. Hardware components must be modular, allowing easy repair, and rely on open standards.

Open Knowledge

All knowledge that is gained through both POP and CLIO should be made publicly available online as part of a free toolkit that will enable cultural heritage institutions to recreate the project within their institution.