ISU students experiment with new technology

AMES — A team of MBA students from Iowa State University is investigating the impact of a new technology that brings additional content to print journalism.

Katelyn Bell, Sagar Raj, Tanner Reed and Jake Waddingham selected the Creston News Advertiser as a test platform for an app that will allow readers to see additional content on the newspaper through a smartphone or tablet.

“We first learned about the mobile augmented reality in our management of information systems class,” said Reed. “The challenge was to use the technology offered in the app to improve a service. Our team thought the newspaper industry was a great fit.”

The free app is called “Layar” and it is designed to bridge the gap between print media and online browsing. The program was designed in 2009 and instantly gained traction as one of the first mobile augmented reality browsers on the market.

“Layar” is based out of Amsterdam and has worked with familiar companies such as Pepsi, BMW and General Mills to bring signs, pictures and billboards to life. It has been downloaded more than 46 million times.

To see the additional content, first you have to download and open “Layar” on your smartphone or tablet. Next, lay today’s copy of the newspaper on a flat surface, frame it onto your screen and press scan. New content should appear at your fingertips.

“We believe this app serves a need as an in between for print journalism and online interaction,” said Bell. “It is user friendly, unique and a fun way to literally add some voice to a story.”

Raj said the challenge with any new technology is getting people to try it and then stick with it. While today’s issue is just a test of augmented reality in print media, it could be a preview into the future of journalism.

Want to share your reaction? Email the team at jwadd@iastate.edu or comment on the story online.