In the latest episode of Spatial Experience Design, MapsPeople’s Søren Vasø sits down with Johnny Sloan, SVP at Leap, to talk about what happens when events stop being static and start getting smart. Together, they explore what it takes to transform a high-density, high-stakes environment—like a comic con or fandom expo—into a thoughtfully designed journey that balances personalization with crowd flow, vendor needs, and real-world logistics. Their conversation touches on the friction points that event organizers are trying to solve, from helping attendees navigate chaotic venues, to using AI and data to surface the right content at the right time, to redefining what a “successful” event experience looks like from a metrics standpoint.
Key Topics:
Additional Resources:
Connect with Søren Vasø
Connect with Johnny Sloan
Our YouTube Channel
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
In this episode of Spatial Experience Design, MapsPeople’s CPTO Christian Christensen joins host Søren Vasø to unpack the rising role of spatial MCPs—Model Context Protocols that enable AI to understand tools, data, and context without custom code. From finding a quiet spot at a convention center to answering, “Will I make my flight?”, this conversation explores how MCPs simplify complex logic behind the scenes and create smarter, more human interactions. Whether you're building workplace apps, digital concierges, or spatially aware assistants, this episode makes the case for MCP as AI’s new favorite format.
Key Topics:
What Model Context Protocols (MCPs) are—and why they matter now
Real-world use cases: from flight timing to meeting room bookings
Reducing developer overhead with plug-and-play backend logic
The shift from visual maps to natural-language, context-rich experiences
Why MCPs future-proof your tech stack for multi-modal interaction
Additional Resources:
Connect with Søren Vasø
Connect with Christian Christensen
Our YouTube Channel
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
In this episode of Spatial Experience Design, MapsPeople Solutions Engineer Brynley Herbert joins host Søren Vasø to explore what today’s airport maps should be doing—and why most of them fall short. From live wait times at security to adaptive wayfinding for janitors, travelers, and accessibility needs, this conversation unpacks how responsive maps are improving the airport experience. We’re talking 3D storefronts, rideshare overlays, and staff-specific routing—all powered by shared infrastructure and smart data. Whether you’re running an airport, designing tech for travelers, or just wondering why an airport terminal always feels like a maze, this episode will reframe the digital map as a strategic asset.
Key Topics:
Strategies for intuitive navigation in airport experiences
Accessibility mapping and the European Accessibility Act
Role-based map views for staff and travelers
Map monetization through branded 3D assets and promos
Additional Resources:
Connect with Søren Vasø
Connect with Brynley Herbert
Our YouTube Channel
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
In this episode of Spatial Experience Design, host Søren Vasø sits down with Crowd Connected’s CEO, James Cobb, to unpack how indoor positioning systems (IPS) are transforming navigation at large-scale events. They dive into the hidden friction between key attendee moments—lost time, missed meetings, inefficient crowd flow—and how IPS helps remove it. From real-time wayfinding to dynamic messaging and movement analytics, the conversation explores what it takes to support truly personalized journeys in complex, high-density environments. Along the way, they touch on event ROI, attendee expectations, and how knowing “where people are” unlocks value for both visitors and organizers.
Key Topics:
Indoor positioning systems (IPS)
Wayfinding challenges at large-scale events
Personalizing journeys through spatial data
Real-time messaging and crowd flow management
Impact on attendee satisfaction and event ROI
Organizer insights from dynamic movement analytics
Additional Resources:
Connect with Søren Vasø
Connect with James Cobb
Our YouTube Channel
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
In this episode of Spatial Experience Design, in-house Senior Solutions Engineer Geoff Wakefield sits down with host Søren Vasø to explore how AI is removing technical barriers and unlocking faster experimentation. It's now quicker and easier than ever to turn creative spatial ideas into working experiences. Instead of static presentations, working prototypes can now be created in minutes using map data, SDK docs, and just a few smart prompts. We're talking chatbots that tell you where the nearest restroom is, real-time alerts that factor in transit time, and location-aware prompts that speak your language (literally). This is a deep dive into how AI is shrinking development time, unleashing creativity, and enabling anyone (not just developers) to build with spatial data. Whether you’re mapping office buildings, transit hubs, or event venues, this episode will change how you think about what’s possible.
Key Topics:
AI-powered demo generation
Using Claude for SDK-driven builds
Accelerating product ideation with LLMs
Airport and office use case scenarios
Additional Resources:
Connect with Søren Vasø
Connect with Geoff Wakefield
Our YouTube Channel
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
David Dewane, CXO at Geniant, joins this episode of Spatial Experience Design to unpack why most modern offices aren't working—and what to do about it. David and host Søren Vasø explore how workplaces can either support or sabotage creativity, focus, and momentum. Drawing from real-world examples like recording studios, law firms, and even the Wright brothers' beach workshop, they highlight how purpose-driven environments outperform polished but generic ones. Thoughtful systems and integrated technology reduce friction and support people in the way they need to achieve peak performance. From employee satisfaction to deep focus and creative flow, this episode makes the case for treating your workspace design as a key driver of business success.
Key Topics:
Smarter Spaces, Better Results
Most offices today are functional. They give people desks, screens, and Wi-Fi. And yet, people are still struggling to focus, collaborate, and get meaningful work done.
If your workplace isn't helping people to do their best work, it's holding them back.
Designing Work Environments for Success
The best ideas don’t come from cubicles or polished boardrooms. They come from environments where people have what they need to think clearly, move fast, and solve problems. That doesn’t mean expensive design—it means purposeful environments, supported by the right tools and systems.
A good workplace doesn't just provide space and basic resources for people to work - it actively supports them by making everyday tasks easier, more intuitive, and less frustrating.
Break Away from the Conventional Office Setup
Most offices are designed around cost per square meter or total capacity. But what if you started with a different question?
What do people need to do their best work—and how can we help them get there faster?
That shift in thinking changes everything. Instead of planning for desks, you plan for outcomes: focus time, creative collaboration, quick access to resources, smooth handoffs, fewer blockers, and so on.
This isn’t about aesthetics. It’s about support.
We’re not talking about trendy furniture or neon signs. We’re talking about tools that help people do their jobs better. Start by asking these kinds of questions instead:
These are the frictions that kill productivity—and stall creative momentum.
When Technology Transforms
Technology has become an integral component of the best workplaces. And this is where Spatial Experience Design comes into play.
Now we are integrating technology directly into the environment, through indoor maps, signage, booking systems, feedback tools, analytics, and more. This creates a connected, responsive workspace that:
The key is to ensure that your technology enhances, not complicates.
The Future of Smart Workspaces
Whether your team is back in the office, fully remote, or hybrid—you can’t ignore how your environment shapes daily behavior.
How we design our work environments profoundly influences the way we work, create, and succeed. Today’s top performers want tools that support how they work. It's time to rethink the systems that power your workplace, because the status quo just isn't good enough anymore.
Additional Resources:
Crafting Spaces for Innovation
Connect with Søren Vasø
Connect with David Dewane
Our YouTube Channel
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
In this episode of 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻, host Søren Vasø speaks with BIG Digital’s Jordan Lampert to explore how kiosks are reshaping the experience at large events. They unpack what it takes to design screen content that adapts in real time—based on crowd flow, timing, and intent—and how that flexibility supports everything from fan engagement to emergency messaging. The conversation spans use cases across stadiums, golf courses, healthcare, and retail, touching on analytics, mobile-optional access, and the growing role of AI in personalizing the visitor experience.
𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘀:
Smart kiosk design
Kiosks in sports, retail, healthcare, and golf
Adaptive content and placement
AI-driven personalization
Emergency messaging and safety
𝗔𝗱𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
Connect with Søren Vasø https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorenvasoehansen/
Connect with Jordan Lampert https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanlampert/
Our Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF99zL14dpjAXAP26hCMtrw
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
𝗦𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 - 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟳
In this episode of Spatial Experience Design, host Søren Vasø speaks with Jakub Otcenas, co-founder of AnyLane, to explore what makes a smart kiosk actually useful—both for shoppers and for mall operators. They dig into real-world behavior data, common pain points in navigation, and how smarter search systems can boost both experience and revenue. From search patterns and route heatmaps to category-based discovery and missed purchase opportunities, this conversation unpacks how modern kiosks are being redesigned as interactive tools—not static screens. If you're thinking about physical experience, digital wayfinding, or visitor behavior, this episode offers a sharp look at how the best systems are evolving to meet rising expectations.
Key Topics:
Smart kiosk design
Shopper behavior and self-service trends
Category-based search vs. store-based search
Real-time navigation and route insights
Integrating promotions and digital signage
Use cases across malls, airports, stadiums, and campuses
Additional Resources:
Connect with Søren Vasø
Connect with Jakub Otcenas
Our YouTube Channel
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
𝗦𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 - 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟲
In this episode of Spatial Experience Design, host Søren Vasø is joined by Christian Christensen, Chief Product & Technology Officer at MapsPeople, for a hands-on look at how AI can be applied to real-world spatial data. Using Gemini Flash 2.0 and a live MapsIndoors prototype, they explore how AI understands context, responds to open-ended queries, and adapts across different environments without structured inputs. From booking meeting rooms to locating vegan lunch options, the demo reveals practical, scalable use cases that go far beyond basic search. Whether you're in workplace strategy, product design, or just AI-curious, this conversation breaks down what’s actually possible today—and what to watch next.
Key Topics:
Additional Resources:
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
𝗦𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 - 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟱
Garret Flower, CEO of Wayleadr, joins podcast host Søren Vasø in this episode of Spatial Experience Design to unpack why parking continues to be a major point of friction in daily routines—and what a better arrival experience could look like. The discussion explores how smarter parking systems reduce stress and help organizations make better use of their space. From digital access and occupancy data to carpooling incentives and future-ready planning, the episode highlights how thoughtful design at the point of arrival can improve how people feel and function throughout the rest of their day.
Key Topics:
Additional Resources:
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
𝗦𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 — 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟰
Robin Le Gal, Co-Founder of Ezymob, joins host Søren Vasø in this episode of 𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐸𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝐷𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛 to explore how public environments can be designed for everyone. The conversation focuses on how accessibility-focused thinking leads to smarter movement and greater autonomy in spaces like transit hubs, campuses, and city streets. They discuss the role of data, the importance of universal design, and how context-aware tools can make navigation more intuitive for all users. From tactile wayfinding to real-time transit cues, this episode demonstrates why better design starts with understanding how people move through the world.
𝗔𝗱𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
Connect with Robin Le Gal https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-le-gal-1702b3159/
Connect with Søren Vasø https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorenvasoehansen/
Our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@MapsPeople
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
𝗦𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 — 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟯
In this episode of 𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐸𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝐷𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛, host Søren Vasø and Rikke Knutzen, VP of Product at MapsPeople, share how experience-led design is reshaping digital environments across offices, stadiums, and retail. The conversation explores how spatial data, platform thinking, and behavioral insight help teams create products that scale and deliver real value. They discuss building platforms, how to design for both partners and end users, and why the best product decisions start with value, not features. From fan engagement to office optimization, this episode explores how to create scalable tools that elevate the final experience—even when your product lives in the background.
𝗔𝗱𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
Connect with Rikke Knutzen https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikkeknutzen/
Connect with Søren Vasø https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorenvasoehansen/
Our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@MapsPeople
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
In this episode of Spatial Experience Design, host Søren Vasø talks with Victor Souza, Head of Product at iotspot, about how real-time data is reshaping office design. They unpack why most offices sit at just 30% occupancy, how hybrid work has changed what employees need from the workplace, and the surprising things that drive people back (or keep them away). From meeting room congestion to air quality and smart nudges like “commute-worthiness” notifications, this conversation offers practical insights for HR teams, workplace strategists, and real estate decision-makers alike.
Key Topics:
Additional Resources:
Neil Barnfather from GoodMaps joins host Søren Vasø in this episode of Spatial Experience Design to discuss the future of accessibility in indoor navigation. We explore how advancements in computer vision, real-time guidance, and AI-driven mapping are reshaping how people with disabilities navigate complex spaces like airports, malls, and stadiums. The conversation dives into the upcoming European Accessibility Act, which mandates digital accessibility in mapping, and what this means for businesses. We also unpack the financial case for accessibility, highlighting why ignoring it could be costing venues more than they realize.
Key Topics:
Digital accessibility in indoor navigation
European Accessibility Act and compliance requirements
Wayfinding solutions for blind, low-vision, deaf, and deafblind users
Accessibility-driven improvements to customer experience
AI and computer vision in navigation technology
The economic benefits of prioritizing accessibility
Additional Resources:
From the EU Commission: European Accessibility Act
Connect with Søren Vasø
Connect with Neil Barnfather
Our YouTube Channel
𝗦𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 — 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟭𝟬
David Stegmann from Ask Nestor discusses 'happy buildings' with host Søren Vasø in this episode of 𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐸𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝐷𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛. We explore how Ask Nestor focuses on creating environments where people love to live and work through technology integration, allowing them to deliver strategic hospitality, diverse services, and engaging events. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding client interactions, improving operational efficiency, and creating frictionless experiences. We also touch on broader trends like post-COVID workspace transformations, the role of AI in building management, and the economic drivers that push companies to innovate and optimize their spaces for better tenant satisfaction and retention.
𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘀:
Smart building technology for tenant retention
Adaptive office design for hybrid work
Integrated workplace management systems (IWMS)
Enhancing tenant experience with intelligent environments
𝗔𝗱𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
Connect with David Stegmann https://www.linkedin.com/in/dstegmann/
Connect with Søren Vasø https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorenvasoehansen/
Our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@MapsPeople
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
In this episode of Spatial Experience Design we’re joined by Elisa Feng from Butlr to take a deep dive into occupancy data. We discuss how meeting rooms can be both fully booked and underused, and how privacy-first data is reshaping workplace design. Butlr’s thermal sensors track how spaces are used in real life, without using cameras or capturing personal data. This helps companies rethink office layouts and simultaneously improve the employee experience.
𝗦𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 — 𝗘𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲 𝟴
In this episode of 𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐸𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝐷𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛, Christian Christensen is back to discuss the evolving use of spatial and geo-referenced data beyond traditional maps. We highlight use cases like timing routes in airports, workplace utilization, and providing real-time information in venues without using visual maps. We talk about the importance of tailoring the way data is presented based on the user's device and context, whether that's through text, audio, or interactive platforms like AI. We explore how properly structured and integrated spatial data can enhance user experiences across different environments, such as offices, warehouses, or retail stores. We also consider the potential of generative AI to revolutionize how users interact with spatial data for decision-making, and imagine future advancements and unanticipated user-driven use cases.
𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗧𝗼𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘀:
Personalized workspaces with smart spatial data
Voice-activated wayfinding & smart assistance
Real-time crowd management with predictive analytics
AI-driven food & beverage recommendations
Dynamic inventory tracking with spatial intelligence
Context-aware notifications for user engagement
The evolution of spatial data beyond maps
𝗔𝗱𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
Connect with Christian Christensen https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrchr/
Connect with Søren Vasø https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorenvasoehansen/
Our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@MapsPeople
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
In this episode of 𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐸𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝐷𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑔𝑛, Christian Christensen is back to discuss the integration of AI in spatial experience design with host Søren Vasø. We focus on using georeferenced data to effectively manage physical spaces like offices and stadiums. Key topics include keeping digital buildings up to date, the application of AI for furniture arrangement, the integration of AI with search and navigation within buildings, and the future potential of AI in personalizing workspace experiences. The conversation also delves into predictive analytics for employee preferences and how spaces using AI can optimize operations.
Allan Mørch, Founder & CEO of AskCody, joins us on this episode of Spatial Experience Design to discuss one of the biggest challenges in workplace software adoption—why employees stop using it. Many organizations treat software implementation as a one-time fix, failing to account for employee turnover, evolving work environments, and the need for continuous engagement. Allan shares why adoption should be an "always-on" process and how companies can avoid the costly mistake of set-and-forget software. We dive into the impact of hybrid work on tech adoption, how behavioral design can drive better engagement, and why the future of workplace software lies in experience-driven solutions that seamlessly integrate into daily workflows.
Key Topics:
Workplace software adoption
Employee churn in enterprise tech
Continuous onboarding & training
Experience-driven workplace trends
Enterprise software vs. point solutions
AI and automation in workplace software
Additional Resources:
Check out AskCody
Connect with Allan Mørch
Connect with Søren Vasø
Our YouTube Channel
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople https://www.mapspeople.com
In this special episode of the Spatial Experience Design podcast, host Søren Vasø shares insights from the Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2025 conference in Barcelona.
Key takeaways include the rise of smart buildings primarily focused on workplace environments, the increasing emphasis on creating better user experiences by lowering friction, and a push towards more integrated software ecosystems.
We cover trends including the shift to hybrid work environments, the evolving conversation on MicrosoftPlaces, the varying quality and application of workplace maps, and the pervasive -- but often unclear -- use of AI in workplace management solutions.
𝗔𝗱𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲𝘀:
Integrated System Europe / https://www.iseurope.org/
Connect with Søren Vasø https://www.linkedin.com/in/sorenvasoehansen/
Our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@MapsPeople
Spatial Experience Design is produced by MapsPeople
https://www.mapspeople.com
