Executive Business Coach Chuck Boyce’s Blog: Speed PASS Santa – Innovation by AdaptationI can’t believe Santa is already on duty at the mall. I think the elves started installing his manufactured housing sometime around Labor Day. Now, there wasn’t any line last night, but I know that will all change next week. Our local mall Santa has all of the usual trappings, snow, candy adorned structures, trees and plenty of artificial snow. However, there was a new addition to the Santa compound this year. They installed a Speed PASS line.  Hmm, where have I seen that before? This was a great example of innovation by adaptation. To the best of my knowledge, the concept for handing out tickets for an appointment to get into an attraction was created by Disney for the theme parks. It was quickly picked up by other major players in the theme park industry. It has even spawned variations on the theme, with regular and premium options. For example at Busch Gardens, you can purchase a priority pass and wristband that will give you access to a shorter line to stand in. There are (at least) two lessons here. The first is the idea to take some of the waiting out of the process. This can free up the guests to see other attractions, and spend more money when they aren’t standing in long lines. The second and probably most important lesson is the idea of adaptation. I can’t say for certain, but it wouldn’t be hard to imagine a Disney Imagineer standing at her local deli counter with a little pink ticket, waiting for the number to be called and coming up with the idea of giving out tickets for guests to come back to an attraction when it is their turn. Thus freeing them up to enjoy other attractions, and improving the flow of guests through the park. There are many examples of innovation in one industry based upon something that is common practice in another. Someone just needs to be paying attention and looking for these opportunities. Take time and pay attention for opportunities to adapt something new into your business. “Independent Executive” Chuck Boyce is an experienced small business coach who can help you get the most out of your business. For more information on how you can achieve your business goals go to www.breakingfreeblog.com Leave a Reply |
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