In this exercise, I used a similar approach in my interviewing style, but was sure to ask about negative aspects of the business, financial impediments, and acquiring business. Last week, everyone was very excited about the opportunity I have identified (water taxis in Fort Myers, FL). It's funny how when you change the way you ask the question, and front load it with a concern or negative, that they then also think of it as less of a viable idea.
Some concerns include the obvious with this business being in Florida, such as weather and "seasons". For SWFL, "season" is when all the snow birds come down, inundate the area, and all businesses boom. Sadly, during the summer months, many businesses suffer and this is the time that if any business is going to fail here, it does. Others were concerned with access to the water to board, insurance costs, travel costs and fuel, and most concerning - cost of boats and overhead to get started.
Interviews:
Phillip - https://soundcloud.com/user-979476020/phillip
Sam - https://soundcloud.com/user-979476020/sam
Miranda - https://soundcloud.com/user-979476020/miranda
Bryn - https://soundcloud.com/user-979476020/bryn
Dan - https://soundcloud.com/user-979476020/dan
Although we all could agree that there will be some sharpening of the idea, and definitely more research, this could still be a viable concept.
| Inside the boundary | Outside the boundary |
| Who is In: People with access to water, no boat, want to be on water | Who is Not: People living inland, afraid of water, seasick |
| What the Need Is: Not wanting to drive, enjoy water | What the Need Is Not: Drive selves, costs, time |
| Why the Need Exists: Fun, convenience, alternative to norm | Alternative Explanations: Rather drive or take taxi |
It’s so true that you can change a person’s perspective/opinion just by changing the way you ask a question. Framing bias is a real concern when it comes to collecting information and interviewing people because you can really skew the results, even unintentionally. Also, it’s smart that you are aware of how season could affect your concept. It’s great that you are keeping your mind open to other issues that may potentially hinder your idea. That being said, I agree with you that this still could be a viable concept!
ReplyDeleteHey I encountered the same experience when I did my interviews. It just goes to show how important it is to be confident in your idea because the slightest doubt could leave the listener in worry. It's a good thing that this assignment allowed for that because it really helps us to think outside our own boundaries and see from a different perspective. I think you have a very creative idea and I hope that you find success in your venture!
ReplyDeleteYour inside the boundary/outside the boundary list is a great list. As for the seasonal concerns, depending on how you store your watercraft it may not be that big of a concern. Brick and mortar retail/service industry may be more affected by this. Think outside eateries (ice cream stand, drive ins, etc.) up north. Many of these operations shut their doors during the winter months and suspend business. This could be the same for your idea, and you don't even have structure expenses (rent/lease, bare minimum utilities, property tax, etc.). When the off-season begins maybe find the cheapest way to store the watercraft and you will be free to pursue other ventures during that time.
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