Ever since I began this blog 3 months ago, I’ve been waiting for an excuse to do an entire post on a new innovative idea from one of my favorite organizations: Disney. Fortunately for me given Disney’s innovation and creativity it didn’t take long. This week Disney began testing their high-tech FastPass (part of their NextGen project) at their Magic Kingdom park.
The current system: Since 1999 Disney theme parks have offered a virtual queuing system through use of a FastPass. Guests insert their park ticket into a machine at one of the busiest attractions and receive a ticket to return later in the day and skip the line. Typically guests can only get one FastPass every two hours and only a certain predetermined number are issued each day. FastPass holders cannot use their FastPass prior to its listed time, but in spite of its one-hour time slot it is unofficially (based on my experience as a cast member and guest) valid at any time throughout the rest of the day. The FastPass is essential for some attractions such as Soarin’ over California which in my experience typically has long lines.
The proposed system: Disney’s NextGen project is a “next generation experience” technology project rumored to cost over $1 billion. Part of this project is expected to result in the creation of guest wristbands implanted with RFID microchips. Prior to arrival guests may be able to pre select a number of attractions for FastPass, reserve show seats, book character-greeting slots etc. This information would then be downloaded into the RFID microchips, to interact with sensors located throughout the Disney parks and resorts. Additional attraction interaction features may also occur based on the information obtained on the chip on the guest’s specific interests.
The “test sensor posts” and the current FastPass
The current test: This week at Disney’s Magic Kingdom park in Orlando, FL blue RFID sensor posts with a Mickey mouse symbol have been temporarily installed throughout the park. A small number of selected guests have been given bands to scan and test. As they scan their band, reservation data is sent to a cast member’s iPad. The bands are intended to provide faster access to attractions than the current FastPass system.
The full extent of what Disney’s NextGen experience could be, is still under wraps. But one thing is for sure the scope for what RFID technology could do to enhance the Disney park’s experience is potentially endless. I know I would love to test this technology, but what do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Marie Wiere's Blue Sky Management Blog 
Marie,
This is really, really cool technology. I think the last time I went to a theme park was 2004. My biggest issue by far was dealing with all of the lines. I like the idea of utilizing technology to deal with this.
By the way, I think we need to hear some details on the following quote from the post!!!
“…based on my experience as a cast member…”
Hi Greg,
Thanks as always for the comment.
I was a Disney cast member from June 2005 – September 2006, I have a little about it on my about me page and in my video. I participated in Disney’s Cultural Representative Program working in the UK pavilion at EPCOT. It was a very cool one-year program, representing my country to provide a more authentic experience to EPCOT guests in the world showcase and living in an apartment community with participants from all over the world. As a cast member you definitely learn the tricks to not having to wait in line and where the best spots to view the fireworks are…
Marie,
Great video! And what an interesting experience at Disney.
Thanks Greg!