A new hotel coproduction experience

Last evening I checked into the Crowne Plaza at the LA airport. No self check in, unfortunately, but another surpise awaited me.

As I exited the elevator on the 14th floor, a sign informed me that this was a quiet floor. It described that no children, marching bands, or other noisy guests were to be assigned to this floor. It also suggested how I should conduct myself to contribute to the quiet nature of this floor.


Upon entering my room, I noticed something on the bed. It was a CD and a mesh bag containing an eye shade, ear plugs, and lavender-scented sheet spray. The CD packaging provided ideas and tips for getting a good night sleep. The CD player in the room was open -- as if asking for the CD. There was also a clothespin-like device by the curtains -- so I could ensure the curtains would block out all the light. All this was branded under Sleep Advantage(tm).


I played the CD, which contained a sleep specialist leading me through some relaxation exercises (two tracks), then continued with some of the most peaceful music I've ever heard. I believe I fell asleep before the CD ended.

This has all the elements of a well-designed coproduction experience. Vision was set when I arrived at the floor. Access was provided by the tools and nuances I found in my room. Expertise (in falling asleep, that is) was built by the sleep specialist on CD. Incentive? If they didn't give me a wake-up call I'd get the room for free.