My company is just me. And that’s by design. I do not intend to hire employees and I purposefully keep my fees and client volume low. I view it as a complete success, but given the common perception of “business success,” I often wonder if others would agree… In this article, I outline my business strategy of Growing Small as an alternate measure of success.
Believe it or not, many consultants, including yours truly, are actually introverts! Learn the best practices for working with introverts by reading Felis Consulting’s somewhat self-effacing and certainly vulnerable ‘Top Tips for Working with Introverted Consultants.’
As a designer dedicated to the long-term planning of zoos and aquariums, I’ve had to explain the process of master planning many times, and although every zoo and aquarium is different, the best master plans (i.e. those which have been implemented) always follow a similar structure. In this post, we address the most commonly asked questions to help you understand what master planning is, when is the right time to start, and who should be involved.
The city of Lafayette, Indiana has one of the oldest—and best—small zoos in the country. Recent renovations, thoughtful and modern designs, and focusing on providing for their local guests as top priority are a few reasons they are successful.
Zoos and aquariums have a long way to go related to being community assets that are truly reflective of their surrounding communities. Recent discussions in the AZA suggest that instead waiting for ‘best practice’ solutions, that individual organizations must start somewhere acknowledging that our strategies will evolve as we all learn the most productive ways to approach DEAI.
As a designer dedicated to the long-term planning of zoos and aquariums, I’ve had to explain the process of master planning many times, and although every zoo and aquarium is different, the best master plans (i.e. those which have been implemented) always follow a similar structure. In this post, we address the most commonly asked questions to help you understand what master planning is, when is the right time to start, and who should be involved.
Can you believe this summer marks ten years of my little corner of the internet talking about design and the future of zoos and aquariums? Although my posting has become more infrequent as my professional life has evolved, you--my supportive and sometimes thoughtfully critical reader--remain constant. I owe you a huge Thank You for reading my ramblings, and contributing your thoughts. For funsies, I thought we'd review a few of the highlights from the past 10 years and over 200 posts!
Top Ten All-Time-Most-Popular Posts (by visits)
10. "Visitors: An Overlooked Species at the Zoo" (2013) by guest blogger and colleague, Eileen (Ostermeier) Hill. Discusses the critical importance of visitor studies at zoos, some hurdles to studies, and the role of designers relative to visitor studies.
9. "The Future of Zoos: Blurring the Boundaries" (2014) a second entry by guest blogger and obviously brilliant colleague, Eileen Hill. Powerpoint presentation with script about trends in zoos today and how they may play out into zoos of the future. Eileen proposes zoos of the future will by hybrids of multiple science based institutions.
8. "St. Louis Zoo's SEA LION SOUND" (2012). Showcasing the then-new exhibit at the Zoo including fly-thru video, photos of new exhibit, and interview with one of the architects from PGAV Destinations who helped bring the design into reality.
7. "SAFARI AFRICA! Revealed at Columbus Zoo" (2012). Announcement of the ground-breaking of the eventual AZA Top Honors in Design award-winning Heart of Africa (renamed). Includes renderings and site plan.
6. "Underdogs: The Appeal of the Small Zoo" (2013). Exploration of what makes small zoos so appealing to visitors, and meaningful to work for as a designer. Features Binder Park Zoo, Central Florida Zoo, and Big Bear Alpine Zoo.
5. "In Marius' Honor" (2014) by guest blogger and now Project Manager at the esteemed Monterey Bay Aquarium, Trisha Crowe. Trisha explores her emotional reaction to the Copenhagen Zoo's disposal of Marius the giraffe, and implores readers to support zoos, no matter your stance on animal rights.
4. "Small and Sad: Dubai Zoo's Relocation on Hold Again" (2009). Occurred to me today, should have been title "Small and SAND", but the sad state of the old zoo is what made this post so popular. Includes design plans and renderings--which I am sure are woefully out of date. Anyone have any updates??
3. "How to Become a Zoo Designer" (2014). After about 25,000 emails from aspiring zoo designers asking similar questions, I just went ahead and wrote it up to shortcut a step... Still, feel free to email me--I always write back. Let's be pen pals!
2. "The Next Zoo Design Revolution" (2008). One of my very first posts, which explains the popularity. Some say naïve, some say gutsy look at incremental revolution in zoos. The future of zoos has been examined at least 300 times since this one, but in re-reading, I see some kernels of accuracy. Expect an update soon...
And in the #1 spot....
1. "A Quick Lesson in Zoo Design History" (2008). Perhaps my second post ever, which again explains it's number 1 spot. A not-as-advertised look at zoo design history which, I have a feeling, has been referenced by many of the 25,000 students (above) in their zoo projects. Holla at me if you cited me!
Top Ten Recommended Reads for Zoo Designers (aside from those above)
10. "To Safari or Night Safari" (2008). I'm a sucker for the title. But this post examines the very slow to catch on trend of after-hours programming or extended zoo hours as a feasible method to increase attendance. Post-posting amendment: in particular, this is a great strategy for targeting adults without kids.
9. "Does Winter Have to be a Dead Zone at the Zoo?" (2013). I cheated a little on this one. I didn't actually post to DZ.com, but to my blog at Blooloop.com where many of my more recent posts have been landing. This one discusses another strategy to increase attendance by targeting the most difficult time of year for temperate zoos: winter.
8. "Zoo Exhibits in Three Acts" (2011). Storytelling in zoo exhibits, told through, what else?: a story.
7. "8 Characteristics of Brand Experience" (2018). A new one! Understanding what makes strong brands so very strong is important and applicable to new attractions at zoos and aquariums. Examined through the lens of non-zoo brands, like my fav: OrangeTheory.
6. "Interactivity and Zoos" (2013). Examining the different modes of interactivity that are available in zoos, and how they can be applied to experience. A good primer.
5. "How Animal Behavior Drives Zoo Design" (2011). Starting with animals in design can be overwhelming. What information is pertinent to a designer, and what is just interesting to know. Another good primer for learning the basics of zoo design.
4. "Chasing Big Cats: Snow Leopards and Perseverance" (2017). Being a good designer is about so much more than just having cool ideas and being able to communicate them well. Learn the qualities intangible qualities that make good designers, GREAT. Don't be afraid...hint, hint.
3. "Making Responsible Tacos: Conservation Brand Perception at Zoos and Aquariums" (2015). Adapted from a talk I gave, I examine how aspirational brand should translate to experience in zoos and aquariums using the popular taco analogy. Yum. Tacos.
2. "Five Zoo Innovations that have been around for Decades"Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5 (2014). Again, pulled from Blooloop. A series of 5 posts examining design elements and characteristics that American zoos have been implementing for decades. This series was an angry reaction to the 'revolutionary' design of metal pods floating through a zoo in Europe. A woman scorned...publishes 5 posts to prove how you don't know anything about innovation. Ha!
1. "Zoos in a Post Truth World" (2017). What every zoo and aquarium advocate needs to consider in this continued atmosphere of skepticism, critique, and distrust. As a zoo designer, you must be aware of changing perceptions and the power we have to shape them.
Top Ten Things I Learned in the Last Ten Years (Blogging or Otherwise...)
10. I'm not shy; I'm introverted
9. How to poop in a hole while wearing 3 three layers of snow pants
9a. Always pack enough Pepto tabs (at least 2 per day while away)
8. I'm not good at social media (see: 10 years of blogging and 600 Twitter followers, probably mostly for cat pics)
7. And speaking of cats, the rubbery buttons of a TV's remote control makes said remote an easy tool to remove cat hair from sofas and pants
6. I sleep better when flying in Business Class
5. Always pay the extra money to hire movers to load and unload that U-Haul
4. Writing isn't hard. Just start typing and...
3. Confidence
2. I lose all 'adultness' around ice cream and baby animals
1. Zoo and aquarium people are really the best people in the world.
Here's to many more decades of Zoo & Aquarium design!
With love and respect--
Your friend, Stacey
Holy cats! I almost dropped my chai tea latte when I realized my very first post was five years ago today! So many things have changed...I've celebrated a full decade with PGAV Destinations, lived at 8 different addresses in 4 different cities, facilitated four successful master plans, participated in the opening of three new exhibit projects with two on their way soon, added a new fur baby and a collection of zoo and aquarium mugs, presented at three conferences, developed a professional development course for PGAV, became a blogger for Blooloop, wrote two novels, learned to play guitar and got a divorce. Phew! That's a lotta livin! And through it all, I managed to find time to dedicate to this little blog.
To celebrate our five years, I thought it might be fun to revisit some of the 165 posts of Designingzoos.com (that's an average of almost 1 per week!)--in case you accidentally missed one or two! And since it's our 5th anniversary, I thought I'd create some TOP 5 lists.
5. Multi-Disciplinary Integration...A Mouthful of Fun!
One of my personal favorites, this post explores a potential for the future of zoos--the merging of multiple tourism attractions into essentially a 'one stop shop' for edutainment.
4. New York Aquarium Facelift?
Perhaps because its been a long-time coming, or perhaps because it's about a beloved institution, but this post has been a popular one with those seeking insight into the forever looming redesign. After closing down due to extensive damage from Sandy, it is unclear to what extent the original plans will be instated. However, with the Aquarium now partially reopened, they've promised to move forward with its sharks exhibit.
3. Small and Sad: Dubai Zoo's Relocation on Hold Again
Similar to the NYA post, the constant promise and cancellation of this truly pathetic institution seems to be important to many readers. Rumors are always flowing about this one, and the current rumor is the project is once again a go.
2. The Next Zoo Design Revolution?
A highly controversial post generating wonderful discussion about the future of zoos. I'd argue, five years later, novelty-based design is, in fact, now on the cusp of full implementation (see Glacier Run, conceived to keep animals and people surprised and engaged; and the myriad possibilities for integration of interaction, including but not limited to digital technologies).
1. A Quick Lesson in Zoo Design History
The world must be full of history buffs! This post not only is the most viewed on DZ's site, but it has been viewed almost 3 times as much as the runner-up. Must be the Google search 'Zoos as Jails.'
Sometimes you just gotta lay down some knowledge. This post is favorite of mine, because it explains to zoo-goers and professionals alike what that mysterious term 'master plan' means and how a successful one is created. I truly believe institutions must spend time developing a master plan, and this post tells you exactly why.
4. Video Games Get It...Do We?
Wow, this is an oldie--but a goodie! A fun read with some insight into my life outside of zoo design (and perhaps a hint into why my marriage is now defunct). Reveals how designers often look at the world--getting inspired in the most unexpected places. Although none of the design thoughts have been implemented in any way yet, tourism destinations are, in fact, starting to use game design theory to create experiences.
Storytelling is such a buzzword these days, but it truly is crucial to the development of a good exhibit experience. Once again, here I drew from an unexpected inspiration to provide insight into the art of zoo design. Also, I love Black Swan.
Not often do I broach a truly controversial subject on DZ, but the unwarranted uproar of animal activists got me all in a tizzy and I had to address it. This post is a not-so-strongly worded look at why zoo design can be a true moral and / or ethical challenge.
1. Inspiring Kids to Become Activists (AZA 2012, Day 3)
This is by far my favorite post. Not because it's ground-breaking or because it's so well written, but because the subject was so inspiring to me. I've always struggled with whether or not zoo experiences are truly making an impact on conservation, and through the development of this piece, I subsequently discovered an actual, plausible methodology to do so. Now, I just need a client willing to explore it with me...
5. DZ's First Zoo Review: The Mote Aquarium
My first and last zoo review. A failed experiment in site visits, this post is constructively critical with interesting tips and design insights, but perhaps a little too harsh. I do enjoy revisiting the post, though, as it reminds me how far we've come. And, I might add, how Mote has improved as well.
4. DZ Visits the Lemur Conservation Reserve
Visiting with lemurs in Florida had to make the list! What a special place helping to ensure the survival of some of my favorite species. The post includes some specific information regarding sizing for holding buildings that may come in handy.
3. Lincoln Park Zoo: Defining an Urban Zoo
One of my favorite posts as I had an epiphany about exactly how to review zoos. Subsequent to this visit, I also realized zoos come in one of four varieties: Urban Zoo, Suburban Formal, Suburban Park-like, or Natural Park-like. I like to categorize things, so this was a nice moment for me.
2. Minnesota Zoo: Be True to Yourself
Another great zoo review based more on 'the moral of the story is' rather than a critique. I also just really loved the Minnesota Zoo and have a real soft spot for zoos trying to succeed in a cold climate. Can't we get visitors to come in winter?? I think MZ's approach is just brilliant.
1. Underdogs: The Appeal of the Small Zoo
This might be a cheat since it covers multiple zoos and is one of my most recent posts, but I really do love small zoos. I love their design challenges--small site, small budget--and their big hearts. Not all small zoos are good zoos, but those doing it right, should really be congratulated.
I sure do hope you enjoyed this walk down memory lane. Cheers to everyone who's ever read the blog, especially those loyalists, to everyone who's ever helped me out with a contributing post or information, and here's to 5 more years!
If you would like to be a contributing blogger to DesigningZoos.com, please contact me using the form below. I'd like to keep a once weekly schedule, but often don't have the time, so if you have something you'd like to share regarding zoo and aquarium design, I'd love to hear from you!
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A colleague just shared this amazing resource with me, so I'm passing it on to you. The Design Intelligence Almanac of Architecture and Design for 2013 lists North America's aquariums along with their size, cost and other information. A great reference for collecting bench marking data--a critical first step in many projects.
The link is also available on our Resources page.
In follow up to my visit to the Lemur Conservation Foundation, a final year landscape architecture student has dedicated his senior capstone to the future planning of the facility. Take a look at his work here: Conservation Is Our Middle Name: Meet Jabari Taylor.
I’ve always been partial to the underdog. Those whose beliefs and perseverance outweigh the skeptics' might by shear doggedness and tenacity. Those tirelessly working to do right despite just scraping by. I’m one of those people who gladly buys the opening band’s CD despite not having anything on which to play it. I always choose a local restaurant over a chain. My March Madness bracket is upset city, and I never liked that Michael Jordan.
The same is true for zoos and aquariums. Don’t get me wrong…I love the big guys and the top-notch experiences they offer. Their excellence in care, leadership in conservation and education, and ability to fill a day with shows, thematic exhibits and fun activity; the star species and large, diverse collections they maintain.
by Patrick Owsley
But there’s just something about the little guys. The ones caring for an oftentimes misfit collection of domestic goats, non-releasable hawks, three-strikes bears, confiscated leopards and donated snakes. Those whose skeleton staff, supported by an army of volunteers, work 18 hour days and happily offer up their own home as an impromptu nursery or quarantine area. Those zoos and aquariums whose budgets for capital improvements over the next 15 years barely equal the cost of a single exhibit at a world-renowned counterpart. The little guys. The underdogs.
So what constitutes an underdog zoo or aquarium? It’s something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately, but on which haven’t truly come to a conclusion. There’s something about its physical size—probably less than 35 acres; something to do with its attendance—maybe less than 100,000 annually; gotta’ include its capital expenditures, its market reach, its operating costs, its staff size and its collection size. But, really, there’s always going to be exceptions. What it comes down to is the feel. Just good ole’ fashioned, gut feeling. Like U.S. Supreme Court Justice Stewart famously said, “I shall not today attempt to further define {it}…But I know it when I see it.”
Binder Park Zoo (from Southwest Michigan Dining)
My love affair with the little guys probably began with my first real zoo job. I spent an undergrad summer bumbling through the construction of a Colobus monkey exhibit, part of the huge Africa expansion at the Binder Park Zoo. Flummoxed by construction documents my zoology classes hadn’t prepared me for, I found myself wandering the existing zoo grounds during lunches or after quitting time. I remember most the intimacy of visiting prairie dogs, digging through their dirt pile exhibit, interacting with the talking ravens, housed in a welded wire mesh aviary, and the simple beauty of exhibits carefully located between the towering old growth trees of the Michigan zoo’s deciduous forest. Even with the expansion, this zoo’s character is that of a walk in the woods; the African hoofstock and giraffes wandering the plains of a meadow that just happened to be there.
Similarly, the Central Florida Zoo, located just outside theme park mecca Orlando, takes advantage of its site to create more of an enhanced nature walk than the in-your-face, wholly man-made sensibility of a larger zoo. Rusticity is embraced and forgiven in a setting where you might expect to spot a free-ranging and truly wild alligator or Florida panther lurking in the swampy woods of the zoo grounds. This is a place where you know—from the moment you pull into the vehicular approach surrounded by the tunnel of live oaks dripping in Spanish moss-- to slow down, to take your time. You can see it all and do it all. There’s simply no rush.
Boardwalk and exhibits at CFZ
Despite the Central Florida Zoo’s lack of both pathway hierarchy and organization based on distinctly defined regions (which do in fact seem to be defining characteristics of a small zoo), you won’t get lost. And so what if you pass by the porcupine exhibit two or three times in order to see the whole zoo. He’s sleeping conveniently in a location where you can get a good, close look at him. From the gravel parking lot and train ride outside the zoo gates to the elaborate spray pad surrounded by shaded seating, this zoo is quaint, and filled with an unmistakable sense of community. In this region, so ostentatiously built for tourism, this little zoo provides an escape to normalcy and a place for residents (and tourists alike) to enjoy a quiet afternoon in nature with family.
Good sleeping spot, my friend.
Perhaps the most meaningful zoo design experience I’ve had is with the Big Bear Alpine Zoo. PGAV’s partnership with the struggling Moonridge Zoo (as it is formerly known) began way back in 2005 when we interviewed in the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains in southern California. The existing zoo, which was the result of many years of dedicated work rehabbing the regions’ animals devastated by negative human interactions, is located on 2 acres in the parking lot of a local ski resort. The animals living here are non-releasable rehabs and confiscations, like Yoda, a Sawet owl, whose wing was amputated after being hit by a car. The animals are well-cared for, but the physical Zoo itself does not reflect the level of care and the conservation / education significance of the facility. Exhibits are chainlink and welded wire, crammed one after the other into its two acres.
Yoda from Big Bear Alpine Zoo
We were hired to create a master plan and eventually to the design a wholly new zoo on a larger site, but still on a tight budget. And over the years, we’ve watched as the community support for the project has grown--despite bumps in the road. One day, the new zoo will be complete; the animals will have spacious new homes, the visitors will have an enriching experience, and I’ll be absolutely humbled to have been a small part of making a difference for such a worthwhile institution.
Kit foxes released after care at Big Bear Alpine Zoo from BBAZ
So, for me, the appeal of small zoos and aquariums stems from the fact that it seems, as designers, we can affect change the most at these institutions. These are facilities which rarely have capital for major physical changes. Places with big visions, but limited resources. These facilities need master plans not only for fundraising and planning purposes, but for the team building and strategizing they provide—for clarity of vision. They need experienced consultants that can offer creative and low-cost solutions to design issues; provide guidance on guest experience. Oftentimes, simple changes drastically affect the public perception of a place —and sometimes just the act of planning itself illustrates such commitment and resolve to achieve more that the zoo is elevated in the public’s eye. Many of today’s powerhouses began as just ‘a small zoo,’ but with the support of the community, were able to grow slowly and steadily over the years.
Do not overlook the little guys. Especially the little guys who’ve made the extra effort to become accredited by the AZA (or EAZA, IMATA, or AMMPA). This is an amazing feat for an institution of any size. And as we know, underdogs can impact the world just as mightily as the conventional leaders. We just need to give them a chance.
master plan quote
A few months ago, I visited with a potential client--who will remain unnamed-- dealing with a complicated case of left-overs. An older institution with aging and non-immersive exhibits, a disconnected and fragmented campus, and plans in the works for a sister institution. As we toured the facilities, the director, aware of experiential and logistical issues of his multi-faceted campus, asked how I could help with one specific exhibit. I smiled and indulged him in some top-of-the-head design suggestions about visibility and theming, but ended by asking, “And what are your plans for this space?” (indicating the mostly unused plaza surrounding the exhibit). “Well, we’re not sure. We want to change it all. Eventually.”
I dropped my notebook to the floor and screamed, “Stop! Don’t touch this exhibit until you develop a master plan!” I didn’t really do that. But I wanted to.
What I did do was explain the importance of master planning. Master plans are essential to the long-term success of zoos and aquariums. They are tools for exploring and pinpointing issues. They are compasses to keep your staff on track. They are road maps for the future.
But why, you ask. Why do we master plan?
To answer the why, let’s look at the how. Generally, master plans are led and completed by zoo designers, and should include three parts: Analysis, Product Development and Implementation Planning. Each phase sets the stage for the next.
In Analysis, we look at as many aspects of the park as possible, from your market and penetration to building condition. We pour over visitor surveys, attendance and revenue records. We inspect each exhibit and every building. We talk to staff from maintenance to keepers to administrators. We gather and analyze, zeroing in on things that you’re doing well and things that are issues. At the end of Analysis, we create a set of overriding Goals and Strategies for the extent of the master plan.
The Goals are big. Increase attendance. Become world leaders in conservation. Educate our guests. The Strategies are much more specific—and in direct response to the Analysis.
Brookfield Zoo's Great Bear Wilderness came out of the master plan. From Ragnar Benson Construction
For example, if our goal is to create a financially sustainable organization, some strategies may include adding a new dining facility, increasing appeal of special events rental facilities, or creating budget-friendly new attractions.
These Goals and Strategies inform and guide the Product Development process; they pinpoint specific tasks to be achieved, specific projects to be created. And in the Product Development stage, we delve into these projects. We brainstorm and explore multiple options for projects—creating many more ideas than what we could feasibly achieve in the master plan period. With these options in hand, we systematically evaluate each through the filter of the master plan goals—which often includes market testing. At the end of the Product Development phase, we’ll have a list of selected projects with conceptual storylines, plans, sketches, imagery and rough estimates.
Tulsa Zoo Master Plan, from Tulsa Zoo
With these projects defined, we finish the master plan by completing an Implementation plan. This phase allows us to understand ‘how’ to get these projects instated. We create a phasing plan—when will each project be rolled out?—and a funding plan—how much capital will the zoo need to raise by what dates? Finally, we create illustrative site plans defining what the zoo will look like at determined intervals (ie every 1, 3, or 5 years).
At the end, the zoo will walk away with a comprehensive plan to achieve specific goals over a set timeline. Generally, master plans plan 10-15 years out. Of course, things come up and even the best laid plans get waylaid. These surprises are exactly why master plans are so important. Because we spent so much time creating the guiding Goals and Strategies, any new issue that comes up should be tackled through the same lenses as the planned projects. Of course, Goals and Strategies may be adjusted over the years, but if the zoo finds their strategic outlook has changed dramatically from the master plan…it’s time to master plan again!
“The Master Plan gave us direction to accomplish these goals and puts us on the path to creating a more enjoyable, interactive and rich experience for the future,” said Stuart Strahl, director of Brookfield Zoo.
St. Louis Zoo's Sea Lion Sound project came from their master plan. From St. Louis Chinese American News
Finally, master plans are critical for zoos to move forward—logistically. Through a master plan, zoos have specific projects to show off, to fundraise for. The master plan provides essential visual and verbal descriptions that get the market excited and motivated to give. Not only that, the master plan is a concise definition of who the zoo is (brand today), and where they want to go (brand tomorrow). It’s a great handbook for employees, and a wonderful platform for marketing.
If your zoo doesn't have a master plan, or its master plan is out of date, the best time to start a new one is right now.
One of the most interesting sessions I attended this year was lead by PGAV’s own fantastically enthusiastic designer, Dave Cooperstein. His specialty within our office is show production, which, you may think, is traditionally confined within the theme park arena. However, Dave’s point is every show--no matter how 
small (think: keeper chat)--can tell a powerful story. It just takes a little planning.
Storytelling, as we’ve talked about before on Designing Zoos, is a powerful tool to reach your guests emotionally, on a personal level, and to convey a conservation message. Storytelling, and thus personal connection, is at the heart of great show production.
Dave suggests that smaller ‘shows’ like keeper chats are excellent ways to connect on a personal level, and can be great theater. But these connections can be created on any 
level, from a one-on-one interaction to a mega, arena show.
The critical element is to understand that varying audience sizes should be a strategy within your educational master plan, as each size and scope may more effectively convey a specific message. Beyond that, providing a variety of show experiences keeps families of all ages and sizes entertained throughout the day which increases satisfaction and encourages repeat visits.
So how can you effectively plan shows for your institution? Dave suggests a logical approach of goal setting and programming based on a defined set of show production criteria, such as:
Thorough evaluation of each of these characteristics looks not at the quality level, but at the specific assessment of size, scope, technology needs, staff allocation, etc. These evaluations will indicate where along the Show Production Scale your shows may fall—with the intention of creating a variety of experiences throughout your park.
Stay tuned for Part II where Dave explores the past, present and future of show production.
Over on Yes, If..., Jon takes a pretty darn good stab at evaluating Zoo Atlanta's wayfinding and experiential issues. So good, in fact, I've borrowed it for DesigningZoos.com! Check it out here: Case study: Zoo Atlanta.
So far, I've heard about two new exhibits opening over the Labor Day weekend: National Zoo's newly renovated American Trail (link includes Portico Group's signature design fly-thru) and Central Florida Zoo's river otters (which I'll be covering in person--stay tuned!).
Traditionally, new exhibits are opened for the spring rush to experience an extra bump in attendance through the busy summer months. I wonder what is driving the timing of these two exhibits? Project delays? Or did they intentionally plan for Labor Day openings?
Summer as the high season for zoos and aquariums is not driven, as you might expect, by good weather--but rather the fact that kids are out of school. Weather is, of course, a factor in attendance, but even zoos, aquariums and theme parks located in yearlong mild climates see a bump during summer. Could these new exhibit openings be an attempt to correct the fall / winter slow down?
If you know of other new exhibits opening over Labor Day, let me know. And if you were involved in the opening date decision making, share your insight.
In a study conducted by climate change education research group, CLiZEN, current zoo and aquarium visitors are highly engaged in digital media on a regular basis. The inaugural study was intended to collect background information on zoo-goers for use as the group develops educational recommendations specific to climate change. However, these results have larger educational and marketing implications, as was discussed earlier in this previous post. From the study:
"Research Topic: Zoo and aquarium visitors have access to and experience with virtual social networks and other Internet technology platforms.
To determine the potential for usage of technology platforms as effective climate change education resources for zoo and aquarium visitors, visitors were asked if they use mobile technology to access the Internet and whether they regularly use any social networks or gaming systems.
To read the full study, click here.
Currently, PGAV is working with several zoos to master plan for the coming years. One of our current clients is the Kansas City Zoo. We've been working with them for several years now, helping them with the new entrance and the polar bear exhibit.
Kansas City Zoo's number one problem is its size. The Zoo, which is easily one of the largest in the U.S., is spread across 200 acres, requiring guests to spend a majority of their visit simply walking from one attraction to another. In a long term effort to curb this, the Zoo has already started bringing animals to the front of the zoo. Beyond that, the new master plan intends to create concentrated zones of exhibits where guests can easily take in all of the experiences and feel they've accomplished something for the day, while leaving unvisited areas for another day. This approach is something that other zoos should consider as most zoos are local attractions--most guests come from nearby and they come several times a year.
For some reason, this master plan has been receiving a lot of press. Below are a few links for additional information:
"Master plan for Kansas City Zoo calls for 'mini-zoos,' more attractions and entertainment." Associated Press
"KC Zoo considers blueprint for the future: three zoos in one." Kansas City Star
For more master plan images, click here.
