Measuring technologies

The registration of panelists' whereabouts is the heart of GIM Traces. It is done by means of state-of-the-art app technology and the questioning of panelists during or immediately after the "moment of truth". To this aim, we are using the following technological solutions:

Geo-coordinates

The geographical coordinates of the panelists are continuously registered by an app. The chosen technical solution puts only very little strain on the smartphone batteries, so that the panelists hardly notice that they are using the app. Depending on the activity, a panelist can send up to one thousand geo-coordinates per day. After transmission to our servers, these data can be analyzed. 

Geofencing

Geofencing zones need to be set up in order to conduct surveys in predefined areas (e.g. branches): If such a zone is entered or left, a survey can be triggered. We register the exact time when a person enters and leaves the zone and thus also the duration of stay. 

Beacons

The use of so-called beacons, makes it possible to conduct exact measurements indoors, even in buildings with several floors. Beacons are small IOT sensors that are continuously sending out a Bluetooth signal. If a panelist comes close to a sensor, their presence in this area is registered. Similar to geofencing zones, beacons can also be used to trigger surveys.