Enhancing Tourism in Riau Province through Augmented Reality and Near Field Communication-Enabled Smart Posters

This research paper introduces a transformative approach to promoting tourism in Riau Province by integrating advanced technologies into smart systems. Utilizing Augmented Reality (AR) and Near Field Communication (NFC), smart posters were developed to elevate the tourist experience. AR technology was employed to overlay digital information, including historical insights, videos, and 3D visuals, directly onto tourists' smartphone screens when aimed at specific landmarks. Simultaneously, NFC technology allowed tourists to tap their smartphones on the smart posters, instantly downloading curated guides, maps, and coupons related to nearby attractions. The primary goal of this innovation was to provide tourists with a seamless and enriched experience, minimizing the often tedious task of manual information search. To validate the effectiveness of this system, user studies were conducted, analyzing interaction metrics with the smart posters and collecting direct feedback from participants. Preliminary findings showed an increased ease of information access, with tourists appreciating the intuitive nature of AR overlays and the immediate data transfer via NFC. By melding AR and NFC within smart posters, this research not only aligns Riau's tourism with contemporary Smart City concepts but also showcases the potential economic and experiential benefits for tourists and the local economy. Future implications suggest a broader application of such smart systems in tourism sectors globally.