Smiling Curves

Exhibition and experience projects usually follow what economists call a “smiling curve” of effort.

That’s a curve like a smile, basically a wide “u”. It maps effort (vertical) over time (horizontal).

At the start we’re on the left side. The effort starts high, as everyone meets, paperwork gets signed, and workshops fill up hours.

Somewhere in the middle, a regular schedule smooths it out, and everyone starts chugging along, making their bit.

But towards the end, as the deadline looms, the intensity comes back. We deal with whatever we put off, and all the things you can’t anticipate until you're actually open.

Despite the name, a smiling curve isn’t always a good thing. It depends on the smile.

Often we end up with a one-sided Harrison Ford smile. High on the right.

Or a zig zag jack-o'-lantern smile. All over the place.

We really want a Mona Lisa smile. Nearly flat. Effort nicely spread out.

Here’s the thing:
Our projects usually follow a smiling curve. Often a Harrison Ford. But we shouldn't stop trying for a Mona Lisa.

Warmly,
Jonathan

P.S. Hat tip to Jonathan S., who inspired me to go back and finish this one.