Heritage trails get app-graded
The new app is great for people who are after spontaneity as they are able to locate trails and heritage sites nearby
A new app developed by the Keio-NUS CUTE Center and National Heritage Board (NHB) has made local heritage trails more accessible to the public. The Singapore Heritage Trails app contains more than 80 trails curated by NHB as well as other public agencies, schools and community groups, and is the first to consolidate all of Singapore’s heritage trails onto a single platform.
Users can embark on self-guided journeys by searching for trails in various categories such as architecture, food and nature, as well as by location. They can discover interesting facts behind street names and landmarks while customising their own trails or exploring those created by other users. The social app also allows participants to share stories and images of their experience with others, gathering memories of Singapore’s vibrant heritage in one place.
“This is what makes the app unique; it has both official content as well as user-generated content side by side,” said app creator Dr Kelvin Cheng, Research Fellow at Keio-NUS CUTE Center. The team conducted feasibility and usability studies, interviews, surveys, and brainstorming sessions to figure out how to present the trove of information optimally on a limited mobile screen size. They hope people will use the app to experience the joy of making new discoveries from familiar sights and create memorable journeys that they could share with others, said Professor Ellen Do, Co-Director of Keio-NUS CUTE Center.
Keio-NUS CUTE Center is a joint collaboration between NUS and Keio University, Japan, which furthers research into interactive digital media channels deigned to engage people in playful, creative and affective dialogue.
The app was revealed during the launch of NHB’s 15th heritage trail at Bedok on 5 May, in conjunction with Singapore HeritageFest 2016. The new Bedok Heritage Trail, which spans over 15 km, complements existing heritage trails found across the island in places such as Bukit Timah, Toa Payoh and Jurong.
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