🎢 Universal Studios · IRL Event Studio

🎢 Universal Studios

Yesterday I went to Universal Studios in Florida. I haven't been for 10 years, and it was a lot of fun!

Theme parks are a great way to see many experience design techniques come together, so think of Disneyland or Universal the next time you are creating an event!

Here's 3 learnings you can use in your next event ⬇️

Design the "Pre-show"

You know how in some rides, you go into an area where the story starts being told? You're no longer in a line... you've begun the experience

💡 This is done to make whatever comes next part of the experience of the ride, preparing the audience to get maximum enjoyment and engagement from it

⚙️ Use this during your next event. This is exactly why we did the "pre-event" virtual call during the Skool IRLs. It can also be done by intentionally designing the arrival experience of the event (first 30-60 mins) to be welcoming, introductory, or memorable. (Think Skool IRL in Central Park)

Manage Expectations through Clear Communication

This one is funny, but halfway through the line of a very popular ride, it started to rain lightly. A few minutes later, a voice came on the speaker and said "Hey everyone, it has started to rain. Therefore, if you ride this ride, you will get wet" 😹 I was shocked that they would have to announce this, but by so doing it removes any opportunity to complain about it

💡 This is done to clearly communicate with attendees so they know what is intentional, what is expected, and what to do next

⚙️ You may not have to tell your attendees "Water is wet" but you MAY need to remind them 100 times where to park, where to meet up, which exact spot to go to at what time, and what is included in the event or experience

"Surprise and Delight"

This is an Experience Design principle based on using creative ways to surprise your audience and go above their expectations (speaking of expectations, above!) When me and my brother went on Velocicoaster we were both surprised and delighted 🤯

💡 This is done by collecting data about your attendees so you know what WOULD surprise and/or delight them. You could guess, but you'll probably guess wrong. Collect data by having them register for events, take surveys, hopping on calls, texting, or any other way to get feedback.

⚙️ Take note of something your attendees wanted and deliver on it during the event (could be a food preference, activity, topic). Go the extra mile to over-deliver for your attendees so they know you are listening.

Alright, that's my blog post for today.

😎 Every day is a lesson in experience design, if you pay attention.

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