Author: Bal Bansal

Disney has been a household name for decades, with a reputation for creating magical and memorable experiences for people of all ages. However, recent trends and a report on the BBC News website suggest that the company’s magic spell may be wearing off. While Disney’s theme parks continue to attract millions of visitors each year, their other divisions, such as television and film, have been struggling to keep up with the competition. In this blog post, I will explore some reasons why Disney’s magic spell is wearing off and how the company can improve using technology.

Firstly, one reason why Disney’s magic spell is wearing off is because of the rise of streaming services. In recent years, companies like Netflix and Amazon have entered the entertainment industry, offering viewers a wide range of content at a lower price point. This has made it difficult for traditional cable and broadcast networks to compete, including Disney’s own television networks such as ABC and Freeform. In order to remain competitive, Disney launched its own streaming service, Disney+, in 2019. However, while the service has been successful, it still lags behind its competitors in terms of original content and technological innovation.

Secondly, Disney has been criticized for its lack of diversity and representation in its content. While the company has made some efforts to address this issue, many viewers are still calling for more representation and inclusivity in their films and television shows. In order to stay relevant and appeal to a wider audience, Disney must take more decisive action to address these concerns.

So, how can Disney improve using technology? One way is by incorporating more immersive and interactive experiences into their theme parks. For example, Disney has already introduced the use of wearable technology, such as MagicBands, which allow visitors to access their hotel rooms, park tickets, and even purchase food and souvenirs with a simple tap of their wrist. Disney could take this technology further by incorporating augmented and virtual reality experiences into their parks, such as allowing visitors to interact with their favorite characters in new and exciting ways.

Another way Disney can improve using technology is by utilizing data and analytics to better understand their customers. I’ve spoken about data and analytics and how it could really improve companies fortunes before. But with Disney, by collecting and analyzing data on visitor behavior, Disney could tailor their experiences to better suit the needs and preferences of their guests. For example, they could use data to determine which rides are most popular, and then adjust wait times and other factors to optimize the visitor experience. They could also use data to personalize the visitor experience, such as by recommending specific rides, shows, or dining options based on the visitor’s preferences.

On top of that – if you’re not a Magic World or any of their theme park visitor – they could still use data to understand their customers more. Who’s watching what on Disney+, and if they’re not watching certain programmes or films, why not? – Then you could focus on those who don’t have a subscription – deep dive into why not. I remember when working for GSK – it was always Pharma companies against each other – because the patents on medicines mattered so much. But then there was a CEO who openly said, for some medicines it’s worth collaborating, even with competitors, just so we can help millions, quickly. What a forward way of thinking! Imagine Disney collaborating or connecting with another streaming service to bring more content, under one monthly subscription. Whilst some of these joint subscription services are around – wouldn’t it be better if the actual companies started doing it?

So there you go… while Disney’s magic spell may be wearing off in some areas, the company still has the potential to innovate and improve using technology. By incorporating more immersive experiences into their theme parks and utilizing data and analytics to better understand their customers, Disney can continue to create magical and memorable experiences for people of all ages. With the right strategy and investment in technology, Disney can remain a beloved brand for generations to come.

Technology has revolutionized the way we shop. From online stores to virtual assistants, technology has made shopping easier and more convenient than ever before.

Online stores have made it possible to shop from the comfort of your own home. You can browse through thousands of products, compare prices, and make purchases without ever leaving your house. Online stores also offer a variety of payment options, making it easy to pay for your purchases.

Virtual assistants are another way technology has changed the way we shop. Virtual assistants can help you find the best deals, compare prices, and even make recommendations based on your preferences. They can also help you manage your shopping list and keep track of your purchases. They can come in many forms – even Smart Home devices such as the Amazon Echo can act as a virtual assitant… by putting items in your shopping basket for you to review later.

Technology has also made it easier to find the perfect gift. With online stores, you can search for the perfect gift for any occasion. You can also use virtual assistants to help you find the perfect gift for someone special.

Finally, technology has made it easier to stay informed about the latest trends in shopping. You can follow your favorite stores on social media to stay up to date on the latest products and promotions. You can also use apps to get notifications when new products are released or when sales are happening.

Technology has made shopping easier and more convenient than ever before. Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift or just want to stay informed about the latest trends, technology has you covered.

Hasn’t it gone so quick!

Time just seems to be flying!!

What a year 2022 was. Busy on all fronts. For me in particular, so much happened in 2022, it’ll definitely be a year to remember. I remember, when I worked on a major project once, and Kim Azerski (who was head of the department at the time) was with me and I asked her for key success criteria. She replied – ‘no surprises and uneventful’.

Wouldn’t we love everything to be ‘event-free’. All just calm. Unfortunately, there’s things we can control and things we can’t and it’s those that we can’t control that really get us… but we can build some mechanisms to deal with them.

As I take a moment to reflect on 2022… there’s a lot that I’m grateful for and lessons I’ve put into practice.

1. Friends and Family – It’s all about your circles, the people you are with and those who build you up. your circle of friends can change over time – and that is absolutely ok. As you grow as a person or start doing things differently (picking up new hobbies etc..) it’s ok to find new friends. New circles. But overall – the important thing is… make sure you surround yourself with those who want you to do better.
2. Take calculated risks – I started a new role this year. After having spent 13years at my previous job… I was very hesitant in moving. Andy why should I?… I was comfortable, knew everyone… but then, I re-read one of my all time favourite books… Who Moved My Cheese. I did some calculations and thought – I’ll give it a go. And I’ll admit, I’m enjoying it, met some wonderful people – and learnt a lot.
3. Don’t care about others – If you’ve not already, I thoroughly recommend for you to read the book – Think Like a Monk. Fantastic book. For those who know me – I love food! And I’ve spent a considerable time cooking with a local charity who serve food to the homeless. Not only giving back – but enjoying my hobby and passion of food. I’d suggest the same for you – whatever your passion is, whatever brings a smile to your face – go do more of it (as long as it’s legal and safe!).

I could continue with this list. But what I will be doing is listing all the good things I achieved in 2022… and what do I want to do in 2023. For sure, there’s a book I’ve been trying to write for the past few years and this is one thing I want to complete in 2023!

But honestly speaking – after a very eventful 2022… and looking at what’s in my control… I’m taking the words of Kim Azerski as my main motto for 2023 – ‘uneventful’.

(Famous last words I guess)

Hope you have a fantastic start to 2023 and all your dreams and ambitions come true.

So it’s nearly Christmas time… hope y’all have something nice and festive planned.

I’ll be disconnecting for a while. It’s been a very busy 6 months! you can probably notice from the lack of blog posts – thought recently I have managed to get the Friday Thoughts back up and running… which I know many people missed!

I need some time to disconnect, and reflect. Not only the past 6 months, but the past few years have been super busy. Enjoyable but busy. And this got me thinking… is it sustainable?

So with that.. I really hope you have a lovely festive break (if you have one). I’ll be cooking with Guru Nanak’s Mission – it’s a local charity that serves food to the homeless, but on Christmas Day, they’re cooking food for the emergency services – so I thought I’ll pop down, help where I can and give something back.

If you have the opportunity – I would say, get involved with local charities. With the cost of living, inflation, prices rising… anything we can do collectively to help each other is only a good thing.

So with that… Merry Christmas!