No connectivity? GPS guided walks and offline mapping

Summit of Whernside, Yorkshire Dales

Using location engagement technologies in areas with no wi-fi or mobile data coverage

"We have a problem; our Wi-Fi and mobile data coverage is very patchy and, in some places, non-existent!"

Does this sound familiar? Whether you're developing an interactive walking tour or an indoor exhibit guide, location-based engagement technologies can transform how users experience a space—even in remote areas.

In this post, we'll explore how GPS and Bluetooth beacons can help deliver location-specific content to your users, even where connectivity is limited.

Harnessing GPS when mobile data falls short

Location-based apps rely heavily on GPS signals to determine a user's location. The beauty of GPS is that it doesn't require Wi-Fi or mobile data—smartphones receive signals directly from satellites. However, it's important to understand the challenges associated with GPS navigation when operating in remote areas, such as heavily wooded environments. It does not mean GPS will not work, it just means:

• It can take longer to get a fix: Dense tree canopies may obstruct the satellite signals, meaning your device might take a bit longer to lock onto enough satellites.

• Accuracy can be reduced: The signals may be weaker or less precise, which can lead to slight errors or jumps in the displayed location on your map.

Some smartphones have advanced GPS receivers and additional sensors like accelerometers and gyroscopes to help mitigate these issues, but performance can still vary.

We always recommend performing field tests to understand how local conditions affect GPS accuracy and map display.

Mapping and route planning without a connection

When it comes to displaying walking routes or interpretation materials, the quality of the mapping solution is crucial. In areas where connectivity is poor or non-existent, offline mapping is key.

How do you ensure offline map availability?

Simple. Pre-download maps. You must encourage users to open your walking tour app while they have access to Wi-Fi or mobile data. To ensure all the relevant map data is collected and can be viewed offline, users should be directed to zoom out so that all tour routes are visible on their phone screen. As long as the app remains open, users can access this data offline in areas with limited connectivity.

Customising maps

We use OpenStreetMap or MapBox technologies to create detailed, branded maps. These can be used to create interactive maps depicting walking routes and reference points. They also enable us to tailor the offline map package to include just the necessary areas (like the walking route itself). This approach keeps the file sizes manageable while providing local details.

Angle Tarn below Esk Pike, Lake District

Enhancing engagement with Bluetooth beacons

In environments where you want to deliver key information or messages and GPS signals can be unreliable—think heavy woodland —Bluetooth beacons offer an excellent alternative for delivering location-specific content. Beacons work by transmitting a dedicated signal that your app can detect, triggering the display of targeted content such as:

• Text, images, audio recordings or videos

• Digital overlays (Augmented Reality)

• Navigation advice and directional guides

Customise messages for different user groups

Imagine an outdoor interactive walking trail that takes users through an area of Special Scientific Interest where different user groups receive tailored messages:

• Dog Walkers: You are entering a protected area renowned for its rare species and delicate habitats. Please put your dogs on a leash to ensure this sensitive ecosystem is not disturbed."

• Groups with Toddlers: Enjoy your adventure in this unique landscape. Keep a close eye on your little explorers and remember to stick to the safe, designated paths."

• Active Walkers: "This area is a living laboratory, home to a wealth of unique species and natural phenomena. Help us protect this delicate environment by following the trail and respecting the wildlife."

Sounds good, yes. So how does that work? During the welcome sequence, your app can ask users to define their user group. This information is stored and then used to deliver customised messages when a Bluetooth beacon is detected, ensuring that every visitor gets relevant and timely information based on their preferences.

Bringing it all together

Even in areas with no Wi-Fi or mobile data, location-engagement technologies make it possible to deliver rich interpretative content to users when they need. Remember in these areas websites don’t work. In summary:

• GPS tracking: Use GPS to pinpoint user locations on mapped routes, but remind them to be patient and mindful of potential delays or accuracy issues in dense environments.

• Offline maps: Be proactive in reminding users to pre-download map data so that users have access to walking routes and points of interest, even when off the grid.

• Bluetooth beacons: Deploy Bluetooth beacons to trigger location-specific content and customise messages based on user group data collected during the ‘welcome’ sequence.

By integrating these technologies you can deliver an intuitive, engaging experiences to your users—even in the most connectivity-challenged environments.

Transform paper trails into interactive, location-responsive experiences

Please get in touch if you're considering your transforming traditional paper trails into interactive digital experiences.

We are happy to talk you through how you can exploit location-based technologies, regardless of whether you have Wi-Fi or mobile data services or not.