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special report kiosks allow users to choose what information to display at any given time. But unlike mobile devices, interactive kiosks remain static in the facility. The advantage is these kiosks allow information to be presented in a large format; accessed directly by users in the facility; pushed out to passengers, either through print or to mobile devices; and used to connect passengers to social media. The Port Columbus International Airport (CMH) installed two versions of interactive kiosks in 2012. Clear Channel Airport completed the first installation as a replacement to its existing digital courtesy phone board. The new kiosks provided bright, responsive ads for hotels, ground transportation, and other local amenities and attractions. Like Clear Channel Airport's old phone boards, these interactive kiosks contained detailed information on each paying client. But unlike the previous boards, upon direct input from the passenger, these kiosks included a "text to phone" feature to replace legacy printers. This Many passengers travel within a Ôtechnology cocoonÕ that began to develop years ago with laptops, and is now virtually complete with smartphones and tablets. Kiosks offer way-finding information via a map but also incorporate graphically detailed directions and estimated walk times. 10 airportbusiness April 2013 new level of integration enables passengers to easily access information from their mobile devices. The Columbus Regional Airport Authority's customer service team managed the second installation of interactive kiosks at CMH, which was completed in late 2012. These interactive kiosks replaced static information directories. The airport-owned interactive kiosks grab passenger interest through a combination of location and vibrant graphics. Some kiosks were placed in areas where the old static directories once sat, but whenever possible these kiosks were moved into the passenger flow of the terminal. Rotating graphics highlighting community activities help draw passengers to the kiosks. As with static signs, the units offer way-finding via a map, but unlike static signs, they also incorporate graphically detailed directions and estimated walking times. The kiosks also offer checkpoint information, weather details, advertising elements, and terminal concession marketing in an easily navigated, interactive format. At the kiosks, users can select from several available languages to find needed information. They also can print or send key information to their mobile device by scanning a QR code on the screen. Finally, to maximize user engagement, passengers can utilize the kiosk's "photo and frame" feature to photograph themselves, and then load the image to their phone to email to others or upload to various social media platforms. Break Out of Your Techno Cocoon These are just a couple solutions designed to help airports connect with passengers in today's terminal environment. There are, however, many other options available. But in a sea of ever-changing options, the challenge often becomes sifting through mounds of information to find the right vendor or service for your facility. To help airports break out of their own industry cocoons, futurist Passengers can print or send key information to their mobile devices by scanning a QR code.