DFAT Sparc Kiosk launch - Jun 2003

Abuzz's versatile Sparc kiosk has been embraced by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), in it's campaign to ensure travelers have access to the latest accurate travel advice, amid this growing period of global insecurity. Expanding on the success of the kiosk launched at Sydney's International Airport, DFAT travel advisory kiosks are to be installed into international terminals throughout Australia, with units being deployed by the end of June.

The addition of this touch screen technology into airports will ensure travelers have up-to-the-minute travel advice and information at their fingertips. Foreign Minister Alexander Downer launched the new government and travel charter and introduced the customised Sparc kiosk, at the Opera House in Sydney, last Wednesday. The initial installation of kiosks into airports are aimed at those who travel regularly, as Ian Kemish, the first assistant secretary of DFAT's public diplomacy consular and passport division explains, "Our reasoning is that this is a place where travelers go."

There are, however, future plans for the DFAT travel advisory kiosks to be stationed at passport offices in a bid to improve public awareness about the DFAT's travel advisories. "Through the Sparc kiosks, DFAT have embraced a forward-thinking, customer service philosophy that responds to the needs and expectations of Australians and Australia's visitors, today and in the future", said Morgan Drew, CEO of Abuzz Technologies. "Accessible up-to-date information and trusted advice is of critical importance in this unstable climate."

"DFAT required a robust kiosk solution which not only had to be highly functional but also visually appealing. The Sparc kiosk exemplifies Abuzz's commitment to design excellence and superior quality", explained Drew. "This is a tremendous endorsement of our products and adds to what has been a great year for Abuzz after receiving an Australian Design Award last month."

The Sparc kiosks are designed and manufactured in Australia by Abuzz Technologies, a company who's portfolio boasts award-winning designs, such as the Zap (winner of an Australian Design Award in 2003) and the Buz (winner of the same award in 2001). "This year promises to be an exciting year for Abuzz. We will be launching several new products which will revolutionise the interactive kiosk market", said Drew.

Abuzz was the obvious partner for DFAT on this venture, with it's proven track record of servicing large institutions, both commercial and governmental, with the means to communicate information to the general public in an innovative and assessable way. DFAT joins a long list of clients to use the Sparc kiosk including Telstra, Australia Post, Audi, The Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre and Kodak.