The drive-through window is a staple of the fast food industry. Places like McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, and the like just wouldn’t be the same without that added element of convenience…
Their sales numbers certainly wouldn’t be the same without it.
And while drive-through windows might make many of us immediately think of fast food restaurants, did you know the idea was borrowed from the banking industry?
The first drive-through in history was in 1930, at the Grand National Bank of St. Louis, Missouri…
And now they’re everywhere!
Banks, restaurants, post offices, coffee shops, pharmacies, even the Las Vegas novelty of a drive-through wedding!
Who would have thought that a little bank in St. Louis would impact the value offered by hundreds (thousands?) of businesses around the world? The idea is so good, and offers so much value to the busy customer… other industries couldn’t help but follow suit.
But what’s the point?
A good idea doesn’t have to be industry-specific, and looking to “what’s working” for other businesses is a great way to maximize value in your own company. >> Tweet This! <<
When you start to think outside the box, looking beyond the scope of your own industry (and all of the offerings, services, etc. that might be commonplace), you’re venturing into new intellectual territory…
Pulling ideas and inspiration from every available resource is the calling card of the strategic entrepreneur – you wouldn’t want to overlook an amazing opportunity to innovate, right?
Keeping blinders on, and only looking at competitors for ways to add value is going to put you in a rut – and keep you there…
Great ideas are all around us, we just have to look for them.
Where can you look (outside your industry) for innovative inspiration?
In your corner,
Charlie