Like all great ideas, it started on a whiteboard.
But unlike most collaborations that eventually migrate into the real world, this one has remained firmly fixed in the analog world of dry-erase markers and clean white surfaces. What began as a simple list, has evolved into a communication channel, entertainment venue, psychiatrist couch, and customer retention tool. 5 years ago, when we launched our Spark Plaza coworking space, I had now idea how powerful the “Whatboard” would become.
“Please tell us what we need”, is the simple opening statement that has been handwritten and erased in 100 different colors on a small whiteboard in our Spark Plaza kitchen. As a shared coworking space, we would frequently run out of paper towels or need more raw sugar and the simple act of crowdsourcing these needs on a shared list, made it easy to place one order every month or so to keep things stocked. But with an office full of creatives and geeks given a public canvas, we soon started to see funny quips and impossible requests. In the fall of 2010, someone requested a disco ball and in a fit of spiciness, I decided to honor the request.
I bought a 12" disco ball and hung it in the center of our full time member area. Because of the anonynimty offered by the board, I didn’t know who had made the joke. When Jennifer walked in the next day she instantly burst into laughter and applauded.
The disco ball has become a part of our culture here at Spark Plaza. At 5PM the sunlight hits it just right and reminds us all that the work day is over and it’s time to have some fun.
The requests continued and we are the proud owners of a dartboard, Nerf basketball goal, sunshades, stand up desk, and many more community recommended items.
But the Whatboard didn’t stop at just insane requests, it spread to other whiteboards through out the space and has created analog communication channels way beyond a simple list of toiletries.
And this really is Greek to me. (Apparently it translates to “I am Amber & you are Jose”. From one of our doctorate student members.)
So What Can We Learn From The Whatboard?
First and most important, ask your customers what they need. Be nice, listen to all requests, and give them a community forum where you will interact with them. The power of the Whatboard is in giving the marker to your clients.
Second, respond to reasonable (and sometimes unreasonable) requests. If you ask someone what they need and then don’t give them something, they won’t ask again. Keeping the coffee stocked and defrosting the fridge may seem like simple requests but it shows you care when you meet a need. And the surprise and delight of answering the occasional unreasonable request will wow your customers.
Finally, inspire creativity. The best lists that have shown up on the Whatboard are ones that feed off of each other. Whether its humorous or serious, one good request will encourage others to respond. And soon you will have filled up the board with input from the whole community.
I look forward to the next 5 years of input from the talented folks we have here at Spark Plaza. Whether it’s more toilet paper, variations on “All We Need Is Love” song titles, or a Nerf Basketball goal, I am happy to honor requests and be a part of a great community.
So, where will you hang your Whatboard?
Stop by and write on our Whatboard anytime! SparkPlaza.com
Jose Castillo can be found with a fistful of markers at thinkjose.com
Email me when Jose Castillo publishes or recommends stories