The museum's mobile app will be the first step in cataloguing the gallery's entire collection into an interactive user experience.
"As visitors become more and more sophisticated with their use of technology in their everyday lives, they are expecting it of museums," said Megan Richardson, the gallery's chief of education and public programs.
The museum posted a request for proposal on the procurement site Merx stating that bidders should be able to "provide visitors with an interactive bilingual (English/French) app ... to engage users and help in the promotion of the NGC, its exhibitions, collection, research and programming."
An app will provide more flexibility than a traditional audio tour, with the chance to integrate interesting audio and video amongst information about the pieces of artwork. It can be downloaded before a trip to the gallery, or upon arrival using a Wi-Fi network, said Ms. Richardson.
The contract, which has an estimated value of between $25,000 to $50,000 according to the RFP, will be awarded in June and last until March of 2013.
Bidders must have a minimum of one year's experience in similar projects, such as app development or web design. Experience working with a cultural organization would be an asset, Ms. Richardson said.
The closing date for bid submissions is May 18.
.jpg)
