Just before the Capital Region’s busy summer tourism season, the National Capital Commission (NCC) deployed new interactive touch screens at various locations in Ottawa and Gatineau, Que., featuring an electronic wayfinding application.

The indoor digital signage network is part of NCC’s broader wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) service, which was in the works for two years and offers free Wi-Fi hotspots at tourist sites and landmarks. The portrait-mode touch screens feature content specifically designed for visitors, including maps, event listings and interpretive information.

“The Capital Region welcomes more than 10 million visitors each year,” says Daniel Feeny, director of marketing and partnerships for NCC, which is collaborating with cultural, tourism and private-sector partners. “The Wi-Fi service and interactive screens are part of our new approach that uses technology to enhance the visitor experience.”

Vancouver-based PowerWave Mobile Engagement has provided the hardware and services as part of a five-year contract with NCC, which was announced in 2012.