I've been asked why I focus on problems instead of opportunities. I feel every problem is an opportunity but not every opportunity solves a problem or at least not an immediate problem.
As an example, I recently read an article about Amtrak. The story is about a wonderful 3 day journey. Travel for travel's sake. 3x cost & 3x time. This would solve my problem if I time on my hands.
When I read about the Deutche Bahn in Germany, I read about ICE (even the name sounds slick) trains with glass doors that swish, speeds to envy and business travel amenities. When I read about Japanese trains, I read about Internet connectivity and work space.
If Amtrak wants to solve their customers problems, they could target the same buyers airlines target, find the routes that make the most competitive sense and look to play their strengths, which have potential. My immediate problem is to get from place to place as quickly as possible, as economically as possible, with the most comfort and the least hassle. Trade-offs need to be made. Maybe when I retire I will take the opportunity to enjoy a nostalgic Amtrak route reliving the multi-day adventures of our ancestors.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
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1 comments:
I am reading 'The Back of the Napkin' by Dan Roam. He writes about "A marvelous discovery: English Breakfast on the Britsh Rail...white-jacketed waiters served us a feast....white sausages, grilled sausages...apricot juice and ice water." Enough to get me riding a train.
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