5 Ways to Boost Innovation in Themed Construction Projects
In the third installment of our series that shares how WCCI provides comprehensive construction solutions for themed construction projects, we explore the importance and details of innovation.
Specifically, we look at how owners and decision-makers can boost the innovative process through systematic planning and strategic execution.
Innovation is a vital process in complex themed construction, which requires multiple considerations. For starters, owners and decision-makers need to consider the scale of their project, the diverse materials involved, and specialized, cutting-edge technology for each specific attraction.
For example, the most successful theme parks worldwide feature complex installations with advanced engineering and construction elements. Perhaps most notably, Disneyland has continued to provide global visitors with novel and memorable experiences since the opening of its first attraction in 1952.
Immersive storytelling is a well-known characteristic of all successful themed project experience and it is through storytelling that you can optimize innovation across your themed construction projects.
1. Optimize Design and Planning
Detailed design and planning is the first step that drives the success of a themed construction project. Decision-makers and owners should begin with a clear vision and direction involving a multi-disciplinary team (e.g. including artists and designers) at every project phase.
For example, aquarium restaurants situated in multiple states including Denver and Houston, combine dining layouts and technological advancements in their design, resulting in impactful presentations with high-maintenance applications.
The aquarium restaurants’ most notable features include a 200,000-gallon tank with advanced filtration and cleaning systems that sustain an astounding array of marine life. Additionally, these installations come equipped with sound and lighting systems for showcasing occasional performances by divers.
In another example, decision-makers of the FNB Stadium/Soccer City in Johannesburg leveraged advanced technology in design and planning to commemorate the first World Cup held in Africa. The stadium showcased unique African culture while scaffolding from the foundation of a historic building. The process required project owners to strike a delicate balance between rebuilding and remodeling each area.
While innovative ideas may frequently arise throughout themed constructions, you should always measure them against the costs, legal challenges, and efforts involved to ensure that they are not over budget or disruptive to the progression of the entire project.
2. Prioritize Material Considerations
Construction material choices have changed in response to the pandemic. These considerations may include labor shortages at manufacturing plants and transportation, global supply chain disruptions, and growing demand for domestic material sources.
Additionally, high-tech installations within complex themed projects often require diverse materials from multiple sources. As such, you will need to assess the feasibility of using each building material and seek practical alternatives where possible.
Looking at amusement park construction alone, market experts predict that the demand for these services will grow at a CAGR of 1.02 percent during 2021-2025. This will coincide with an increased demand for building supplies, so it is advantageous to focus on securing materials from top suppliers during this period. Some factors to consider when choosing a supplier include the market favorability index, such as the general perception of a company, and cost-saving opportunities.
3. Leverage the Latest Technology
The most common example of technology at work involves themed parks. These complex structures provide visitors with some form of escapism, a process realized with advanced engineering and construction technology. You can improve on-site innovations by researching existing technologies offered by industry competitors and exploring the mechanisms behind the scenes.
By doing so, you can avoid reinventing the wheel and focus your project efforts on improving an existing design. As a result, you can significantly reduce project costs and improve construction ROI. Perhaps more importantly, you will need to hire a qualified team of experts to realize your technological vision.
Architects and decision-makers should reach out to strategists and design consultants where necessary to provide a smooth integration of tech throughout the site.
For example, modern park sensors such as Disney’s MagicBands require personalization and data collection considerations. Your team might need to work closely with IT experts to discuss how devices and related technologies complement on-site constructions.
Another inspiring display of technology can be found in CityHub Amsterdam, a futuristic-themed hostel that provides guests with high-tech wristbands that unlock individual accommodation pods. Each pod includes app-controlled mood lighting and built-in audio streaming services. While the hostel is a moderately sized establishment, its interactive features can be easily scaled to create immersive experiences within larger and more complex themed projects.
4. Merge Physical and Digital Design Elements
The digital world narrows the gap between virtual and physical experiences. Essentially, virtual experiences provide individuals with a personal form of escapism that they can enjoy from the convenience and privacy of their screens.
Alternatively, physical constructions promote powerful social experiences where visitors can create memories through enjoyable group activities.
Combining physical and digital elements enables visitors to have the best of both worlds. For example, you may add geofencing services to physical site attractions through codes that visitors can scan and access for a fuller experience.
These experiences would be similar to virtual guided tours in modern museums, where visitors can interact with exhibitions while receiving a personal walk through.
5. Collaborate With a Top Construction Solution Provider
The most advanced and accurate construction programs fail to provide you with the contextual knowledge necessary for planning and creating an innovative themed project. By working closely with the construction experts at WCCI, you can identify the risks and costs involved in your project to avoid delays and going over budget.
Essentially, a construction solution provider will help you clarify the feasibility of your project innovations and smooth the transition between expectations and reality based on real-world observations and market considerations.
WCCI’s specialized consultants provide the most comprehensive estimate, accounting for financial, economic, and market factors based on your project specifics. We offer the extensive on-the-ground experience you need to oversee the most complex themed projects with a diverse team of experts across multiple disciplines.
Our next article will explore the importance of consistency in themed projects. We will look at the core factors that require timely attention and how they influence project progression and success.
Contact WCCI’s dedicated team to gain exclusive industry insights that optimize your most complex construction projects.
