The holidays are a time when families come together to enjoy communal meals, gather by the fire or perhaps even engage in a board game that won't result in a dispute about the rules of Monopoly.
With the help of 2,000 adult Monopoly players, Hasbro recently launched a survey to determine some of the most frustrating behaviors that ruin a game. The survey found that a staggering 51% of Monopoly games end in a verbal or physical dispute, with some of the acts that might trigger a fight include someone making up rules, taking too long to execute a turn or stealing money from the bank.
To minimize fights during the holiday season, Hasbro is setting up a limited-time hotline in the UK from December 24th to the 26th that will allow players to call a Monopoly rulebook expert to straighten out any disputes.
Board Game Hotlines
Hasbro's Hotline Curbs Holiday Disputes Over the Rules of Monopoly
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Customer Support - The introduction of a hotline for board game disputes demonstrates the demand for virtual customer support in resolving conflicts.
2. Interactive Rulebook Apps - A potential disruptive innovation opportunity lies in developing interactive rulebook apps that can be accessed in real-time to resolve disputes during board game play.
3. Conflict Resolution Services - There is an opportunity to create specialized conflict resolution services that focus on resolving disputes during recreational activities like board games.
Industry Implications
1. Customer Service - Companies in the customer service industry can explore incorporating virtual support hotlines to provide real-time assistance to customers in resolving disputes.
2. Mobile App Development - The mobile app development industry can capitalize on the need for interactive rulebook apps by creating user-friendly and engaging applications.
3. Mediation and Arbitration - Mediation and arbitration firms can expand their services to include resolving conflicts that arise during leisure activities such as board games.