problem
Colonial Williamsburg, one of the nation’s largest living history projects, wanted to enhance visitors’ navigation and engagement without compromising the authenticity of its 18th-century experience. The challenge was to provide a modern wayfinding tool that allowed guests to access information easily while keeping their focus on the historical setting.
solution
We developed the Colonial Williamsburg Explorer, a digital companion designed as a modern-day compass. The app enables visitors to locate costumed interpreters in real-time and provides conversation prompts to foster deeper interactions
The project’s creative approach emphasized balance—ensuring that the app’s functionality met modern expectations without distracting from the historical atmosphere. We designed the visual style to respect the era’s aesthetic subtly, steering clear of creating a caricature of colonial times. This approach allowed visitors to be “present,” interacting with the environment rather than getting absorbed in their screens.
The app’s design subtly integrates American heritage elements through careful typography and color choices, enhancing the immersive experience without overemphasizing historical motifs.
After launch, the app’s impact was significant. Analytics showed a 183% increase in users and a 42% boost in average session length compared to the previous version. These metrics demonstrated that the app successfully engaged visitors, improving navigation and interactivity while preserving the essence of the Colonial Williamsburg experience.
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