The trend towards portable technology use resonated with some of our personae, and I decided to take on that part of our investigation. People are becoming more and more reliant on their cell phones, digital cameras, pda’s, and computers to navigate through everyday life. Interestingly, gps technology has already gained popularity with backcountry park users because it allows them to navigate unfamiliar territory more safely and accurately.
What if any park visitor could rent or purchase some kind of handheld digital device that would help them navigate through and experience the park? This digital device could help park visitors on a practical level by helping them find trails, information, points of interest, and current park events, and it could also help them enjoy the park on a more meaningful level by providing education, games, and tools. I began to sketch portable devices for use in the park.