eTreasure is an open project, which is being tested by users. The first beta test took place during the international tourism fair “I Viaggiatori” (Travellers), held November 4th, 2007 in Lugano.

In this occasion eTreasure was played by about 30 people, divided into 10 teams. The pilot treasure hunt had 6 point of interests. The SMS guided the teams on a given place, asking a question. After a correct solution (sent by SMS to the system) another hint was sent to the participants.

After the experience, a short qualitative questionnaire was distributed to the participants, asking the following questions: (i) did you enjoy the treasure hunt? (ii) what are three strengths of eTreasure? and (iii) what are three weaknesses of eTreasure?

Summarizing the results, it comes clear that all the users enjoyed eTreasure (all users answered positively).The following strengths were also highlighted:

Strengths:
1. Creative & different: the innovation of the system seems to be the most quoted issue. One user underlined the fact that playing eTreasure helps to focus on particulars of a given monuments
2. Outdoor activity in touch with the nature: “city visit that includes outdoor activities coupled with challenging (interesting) tasks”
3. Interaction with the system: the easiness of use, SMS technology is fast and common, easy to answer and to get the next tips

In general, eTreasure has been successful and the results have been quite promising.