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All that a visitor to the Illinois State Fair needs to get around the fairgrounds in Springfield this year is a mobile device and The State Journal-Register.
WHAT THEY DID: The State Journal-Register created a mobile site with all of the information visitors seek while inside the fairgrounds. From the nearest vendor of corn dogs to the next grandstand event, visitors have quick access to the information on their mobile devices.
Included on the mobile site is a searchable list of daily events throughout the fairgrounds, news headlines and blog entries about the fair, and general information that includes ticket prices, parking, bus transportation and other services.
One of the most popular features is the State Fair Food Finder that was created by the SJ-R staff. Users can search specific menu items by name or location and pinpoint vendors on a fairgrounds map.
THE TAKEWAY: The SJ-R recognized and capitalized on visitors’ need for a handy guide to the fairgrounds and the tremendous traffic possibilities, especially on the two weekends of the fair, by providing access to that content through a mobile device.
The SJ-R also offers a fair page on SJ-R.com that is updated throughout the day with stories, photos and videos, daily coverage in the print edition and even a QR code that readers may scan for access to the mobile site. Combine all of the coverage platforms and the SJ-R becomes the top source for fair coverage not only for its circulation area, but for an entire population of visitors from throughout the state and beyond.
GateHouse Media news organizations are finding ways to work corporate strategies for best practices into their websites and newspapers every day. National content development managers Jean Hodges and Sarah Corbitt are on the lookout for your best work, and we'll share it here.
