Watch CBS News

MidMichigan Puts Floor Maps in the Palm of a Visitor's Hand

MIDLAND -- MidMichigan Medical Center Midland empowers patients and visitors with confidence before and during their time at the Medical Center.

Visitors can now view online internal building maps by scanning a quick response code with their mobile phone or device. The new codes are posted throughout the hospital facility on selected signs and near elevators. Scanning a code will bring up a map of the area where the visitor is standing. The same maps appear on the Medical Center's web site.

Much like the Google internal maps beta project which allows users to bill down from a satellite view into indoor maps, MidMichigan's QR code approach puts the visitor in charge.

The addition of QR codes as a wayfinding tool allows visitors to plan things such as parking and navigation time within the facilities in advance of their appointments. The new technology also makes it easier to keep digital maps and other facility information up-to-date.

"The QR sticker material is referred to as flexcon, which is actually an adhesive-backed vinyl material," said Mark Kaweicki of MidMichigan's partner, ClearRiver Advertising and Marketing. "It is semi-gloss, and is often used in outdoor applications, however, we really liked it for the stickers because of its durability and because it had just the right amount of adhesive, not under or overly sticky."

The downloadable maps are one of several features intentionally designed to make the Medical Center easier to navigate. Others include visual themes on each patient floor -- earth, water, light and orchard -- and elevators named after birds or trees. Some larger art pieces also serve as "landmarks" at key building locations.

Said MidMichigan vice president for facilities and construction Mike Erickson: "Including QR codes on our internal signs is another easy way to help people navigate in an inherently complex environment like this. QR codes are used in more and more places, so the internal Medical Center signage is a great extension of this approach, and one where we can track our ROI with online metrics."

Those who would like more information about finding their way at MidMichigan Medical Center-Midland may visit www.midmichigan.org/maps, or type "wayfinding" in the search box.

A brochure including a campus map and several Medical Center floor maps may also be requested by calling MidMichigan Health Line at (989) 839-3199.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.