MOTE LABORATORY'S NEW INTERACTIVE TAGS
Starting this month, Mote Aquarium will be using new, interactive “TAGs” developed by Microsoft to help visitors and Sarasota area residents learn more about the marine laboratory.
These TAGs are essentially barcodes that smartphones read using an application ("app") that can be downloaded for free. Once installed, the TAG Reader app uses the camera in your smartphone to scan a TAG, then automatically opens a web page, plays a video, dials a phone number or displays a text message. TAGs will appear on Mote Aquarium exhibits, in printed materials and in several Sarasota locations starting on September 1.
“We’re excited to offer our visitors a whole new way to engage with Mote’s exhibits and nature,” says Dan Bebak, Vice President of Mote Aquarium. “Microsoft TAGs give us a new way to educate and entertain people – key parts of Mote’s mission.”
Visitors can scan the tags for tips about upcoming events, discounts, fun facts about our animals, new Mote videos and sneak peeks behind the scenes.
“We can change the content associated with a TAG on a moment’s notice, making them very dynamic,” Bebak says. “The Aquarium is about experience – a place where families come to enjoy themselves, see fascinating creatures and learn,” Bebak says. At this point, TAGs are in the realm of ‘experience marketing,’ helping us create a richer experience for our visitors, even before they arrive at the Aquarium.”
Mote’s goals include reaching new audiences, providing easy access to additional information about Mote in publications, and bringing Mote research findings to life in new ways.
Mote is working with LocalSocial, a social media marketing company, to design its TAG program. Other local organizations who have also worked with LocalSocial to develop TAGs include Asolo Repertory Theatre, Sarasota Opera and Sarasota Orchestra. Mote is also part of TagSRQ, an area economic development initiative designed to drive new business via mobile phones.
Smart phone users may download a free reader at www.GetTag.mobi.
Click here to watch a video about Microsoft TAGs at Mote Aquarium.
