Wow, Who Designed That?

I heard an expert recently assert, in a public setting, “No one should ask who designed an experience after they visit.”

I have … thoughts.

Actually, I just disagree. Because that isn’t a useful goal for anyone involved. It shouldn’t be a goal at all.

Yes, visitors should say “Wow, that was interesting.”

Yes, visitors should say “Wow, that was worth doing.”

But visitors should also say “Wow, who designed that?"

Because it’s hard to maintain our relevance. It’s hard to compete for visitors. It’s hard to woo our audiences away from their distractions. Our experiences need every possible advantage.

A design so amazing that visitors ask who designed it is a major advantage.

Systematically planning to achieve the opposite? That makes no sense at all.

Here’s the thing:
“Wow, who designed that?” You deserve a design that makes your visitors ask.

Warmly,
Jonathan

P.S. I’ve heard people say similar things about lighting designers. I don’t agree with them either.

P.P.S. No MtM tomorrow. Have a good Thanksgiving!