From reducing the size of queues to significantly lowering your operating costs, the benefits of self service kiosks are numerous. Like any new technology, kiosks can be challenging for some customers to use at first.

However, it’s easy to simplify your kiosks and make them more usable for all types of customers. In this blog post, we’ll share five simple but effective usability tips to make your kiosks more user-friendly and streamlined.

Use large, easy-to-read typefaces

Many merchants make the mistake of treating their kiosk as a platform for listing detailed information. Instead of focusing on detail, structure your kiosk’s text as if it’s a conversation with a customer and use short, simple prompts.

Use large typefaces that are clear and easy to read to increase visibility and make using your kiosk as simple as possible for customers. Simple elements like spacing and font size can make a big difference in terms of your kiosk’s display readability.

Use standardized interface elements

Icons and other interface elements can be used to replace text in your kiosk’s user interface. For example, if your kiosk accepts payments, buttons for cash and credit cards can replace text while keeping your kiosk easy for users to understand.

When you replace text with icons and other interface elements, make sure they’re standardized and well known. Obscure icons can often do more harm than good in terms of your kiosk’s usability.

Use large buttons and UI elements

If your kiosk has a touchscreen, it’s important to use large buttons and UI elements that users will have no issues interacting with. It’s also important to place buttons in the same position on multiple screens to create a ‘path’ through your interface.

Remember that most users won’t be absolutely precise when operating your kiosk’s touchscreen, and that accidental touches will slow down the process. Use large and user-friendly buttons and other elements to make using your kiosk nice and simple.

Avoid long and detailed forms

Does your kiosk interface include data entry forms? If so, keep them as short and straightforward as possible to make the process of entering information as simple as possible for customers.

For bill payments, let customers provide a short reference number instead of using their full name or account ID. The shorter your forms are, the easier users will find it to use your self service kiosks.

Offer support for multiple languages

Customers are more likely to use your kiosk if its interface offers support for their native language. If your business is located in an area where multiple languages are spoken, make sure you provide support for all of the commonly spoken ones.

In the United States, this generally means offering support for second languages like Spanish and Chinese. In large cities, providing support for several languages makes it easier for non-native English speakers to operate your kiosk.