Renting as a business model

Nheeda Enriquez — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:59:55 +0000

As a relatively new homeowner, I’ve spent some time thinking about the personal economics of renting vs. buying. Yesterday, during one of our weekly pilgrimages to Home Depot or Lowes, we were in the market for a 20′ ladder, but not so much the $250 price tag. I briefly considered alternative solutions, including renting. Here’s a Monday 2-Minute-Mindmap capturing the mental scan at the time. Lots of companies may be having a go at the rental business model, especially in a tough economy.

My favorite idea from this: a neighborhoood Spring Cleaning Olympics!

2-Minute Mindmap: Professional Wedding Guest

Nheeda Enriquez — Mon, 18 May 2009 14:38:17 +0000

I’m back in Charlotte after attending another set of weddings (3 in a week!) And while all of them were fun, I’ve had time to consider a career as a Professional Wedding Guest. The wedding industry has always been a showcase of new ideas, so that’s the topic of today’s 2-Minute MindMap (2MMM = my combo of brainstorm + blast of things I’ve seen recently. I use these to demonstrate the fun of lateral thinking.)

You have unique needs when you attend a lot of weddings. What can you build a product or service around?

A name change service for new brides makes a nice shower gift.
Hire guests if you don’t have enough friends and want to impress others.
An intentional area for professional photos where the bride & groom can also greet each guest. Purchase photos like you would at a cruise instead of favors.
Dancing lessons for the guests at the rehearsal dinner.

It happens here: Consumer-centric Innovation in Charlotte and beyond » 2 min mindmap

Renting as a business model

2-Minute Mindmap: Professional Wedding Guest