Wait Time Algorithm for Interactive Map Service Locations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Customers of no-appointment businesses, such as hair salons, face uncertainty in wait times due to inaccurate estimates based on the number of customers on the waiting list, making it difficult to choose the location with the shortest wait, especially when multiple locations are nearby.
Innovation Solution
An internet-based customer check-in system that provides a map-based graphical display of service locations with accurate estimated wait times calculated using a wait time algorithm, allowing customers to select the most convenient location and join the waiting list remotely based on available employees and historical service data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If employees provide wait time estimates based on the number of customers on the waiting list, then customers can receive a rough wait time indication, but the accuracy of the wait time estimate deteriorates due to variations in employee service speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously collects actual service completion data from each location and uses this feedback to update and refine the algorithm's wait time predictions. The algorithm learns from historical data how long services actually take at each location, adjusting predictions based on real-world outcomes rather than static employee estimates.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables customers to independently query wait times and select locations without needing to call each business. The automated algorithm processes customer requests and provides accurate wait time information without requiring employee intervention, allowing customers to make informed decisions autonomously.
2Loss of time
If customers visit multiple locations or make numerous phone calls to determine which location has the shortest wait time, then they can find the best location, but the time and effort required deteriorates significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines wait time data from multiple locations into a single unified interface displayed on a map. Customers can view all nearby locations and their respective wait times in one place, eliminating the need to separately contact each business and consolidating information gathering into a single efficient action.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates and displays wait times for all locations before the customer arrives or makes a decision. By having this information ready in advance on the map interface, customers can immediately identify the best location without needing to perform additional queries or visits during their decision-making process.
3Ease of operation
If businesses do not allow customers to join the wait list until they enter the store, then employees maintain control over the waiting process, but customers lose the ability to secure their spot remotely and must travel to the location first
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary online platform between the customer and the physical business location. Customers can join the wait list through this intermediary system before arriving at the store, allowing them to secure their spot remotely. The intermediary handles the registration and queue management, freeing customers from the requirement to physically present themselves to join the waiting list.
Data Source
AI summary
An internet-based system and method allows customers to remotely check-in to a wait list for a no-appointment first listed-first served business. A location associated with a customer is received and an interactive map displays multiple icons with each icon corresponding to a location of the business. A dynamically updated estimated wait time for the wait list at each business location is displayed. A customer selection of a location at which to receive a service from the business is received by a selection of the icon representing the business and the customer is added to the wait list at the location.