Thinking Outside the Box

Thinking outside the box. Do they teach it in business school, or concentrate on the mission and vision framed on the wall in corporate offices, two things even top management doesn’t understand?

COVID-19 is here, wrecking havoc in office towers, business districts and people’s income. There’s no easy solution for survival but thinking outside the box can be the solution.

Most businesses are trying that option, but it is within the COVID-19 directive like six feet apart and wiping shopping trolleys/carts and everything else that can be sanitized.

WINNIPEG MANITOBA CANADA

One Canadian business called The Forks thought outside the box. It is the pulse of the city because it has everything families need for relaxation: the river with the fabulous geese gliding along, boat trips, bakery, restaurants, coffee shops, book shops and a unique bar called THE COMMON, which mints money because of its bustling trade.

Then COVID-19 happened. The Common thought outside the box.

1. They moved seating outside.

2. They bore holes on the wall and beer taps, glasses, cashiers etc. are  outside now.

3. They brought in carpenters to make standing only tables opposite cashiers.

4. They made little tables that hang over steps so folks can sit on the steps and put drinks on step tables.

5. Carpenters made a nice awning over the ‘new’ bar counter.

6. They bought new black chairs and tables and put them in the skating rink, which is used as a bandstand during the summer.  

Result: Business seems to be booming although I don’t have before and after COVID-19 sales figures. Thinking outside the box looks like a winner, during the 2020 summer, which will be remembered for OUT OF BUSINESS signs.

Winter will be a challenge because customers will go back inside and try and do the six feet social distancing thing, which is impossible in tight spaces.

Thinking outside the box is seldom practised because the box is very cozy. Not anymore. Not after COVID-19.

By: Nonqaba waka Msimang.