New interactive campus map launched

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Enhancing student experience with new digital wayfinding platform

Bath Spa University, known for its commitment to social inclusion and student welfare, takes another stride towards digital transformation with the launch of the Living Map digital wayfinding platform. 

The platform aims to revolutionise campus navigation, making it more accessible and convenient for students and visitors alike.

"Living Map is delighted to partner with Bath Spa University in this innovative venture," said Peter Asman, CRO of Living Map "Our digital wayfinding platform is designed to enhance the student experience and promote inclusivity across campus, aligning perfectly with the university's values."

Finding a modern solution for navigating campus

Traditionally, navigating campuses poses a challenge, especially for newcomers. Recognising the need for a modern solution, Bath Spa University partnered with Living Map to develop a dynamic digital map accessible through the University's mobile ‘My Bath Spa’ app, website, and onsite digital kiosk.

This innovation integrates seamlessly into the University's ecosystem, offering students a comprehensive tool for managing their academic and campus experiences efficiently.

Rebecca Schaaf, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Student Experience said: 

"At Bath Spa University, we prioritise student experience and inclusivity. Our dedication to inclusivity has been recently recognised with Bath Spa University being named the University of the Year for Social Inclusion by The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024.

"The Living Map digital wayfinding platform is a continuation of this commitment, designed to support students in their journey towards academic success and further enhance inclusivity across campus."

Key features of the Living Map Platform™

The Living Map Platform™ includes:

• Enhanced student experience. Students can navigate to their classes with ease, reducing stress and disruptions to their learning. The platform empowers students to feel confident in reaching their destinations on time.
• Inclusivity and accessibility. With step-free routing options and highlighted accessible routes, ramps, and elevators, the platform promotes inclusivity and removes physical barriers for individuals with mobility impairments.
• Visitor engagement. Prospective students and visitors can access the digital map through the University's website and app, enabling them to familiarise themselves with the campus before arrival. This interconnected digital experience enhances the University's open day events and supports prospective students in making informed decisions.
• Sharing location. The digital map allows users to share their exact location, addressing the common challenge of finding meeting points on campus. This feature enhances efficiency and reduces stress for students, staff, and visitors alike.
• Data-driven improvements. The platform will provide valuable insights to the University into user behaviour and campus traffic, enabling data-driven decisions to be made on improvements to support students and enhance the overall university experience.

Helping students to navigate campus with confidence

The launch of the Living Map Platform™ coincided with a Bath Spa University open day, welcoming approximately 1000 new visitors to the site.

The University has already received positive feedback about the new digital map. Parents of students with mental healthcare needs have expressed how pleased they are, as the digital wayfinding map alleviates worries about navigating the campus and reduces anxiety associated with campus life.

Rebecca Schaaf continued:

"We are thrilled to provide a solution that addresses the needs of our diverse student population. With around 26% of our students identifying as disabled, neurodivergent, or having a mental health condition, the Living Map Platform™, in conjunction with the University's AccessAble guide, will help students orientate themselves around our campuses and settle into life at Bath Spa."

Continuing the digital transformation

Rebecca Price, Facilities Manager and lead on this project for Bath Spa University, added:

“We’re so pleased to have an interactive kiosk in the Commons Atrium at Newton Park campus, and that the digital maps are now available via the My Bath Spa app and the University website for everyone to explore.

"And it doesn’t stop there. We aim to introduce more kiosks at key points across our campuses in the future, and we’ll continue updating the maps with more wayfinding information.”

As UK universities continue their digital transformation journey, Bath Spa University leads the way with Living Map, leveraging innovative technologies to enhance the student experience and promote inclusivity across campus.

Navigate your way around Newton Park campus on the new interactive map.