Online activity 8.1

Have fun in a queue (at least we think this is fun…)

Overview

There will be very few days when you do not queue for something or other – at a supermarket check-out, in a coffee shop, or waiting for a bus.  This activity is design to occupy your time, and deepen your understanding of queuing.

Activity Description

Whilst in a queue consider the following:

  • What kind of queue is it? (Single line, multiple channel, diffuse, priority, ‘smart’)
  • What behaviours can you observe? (Rejecting, baulking, or reneging)
  • What, if any, action has been taken to influence the psychology of people waiting in line? (Things to occupy time, reduce anxiety, provide certainty, and explain waits)
  • Is the behaviour of people waiting alone different to the behaviour of couples or groups?  If so, how?
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