15 August 2002

User interface a factor in success of low cost airlines? John Robb (or is it the WSJ?) suggests that product design is partly reponsible for low-cost airline success. Big changes at American Airlines. The company will now manage flights to minimize costs vs. maximize revenue. This basically says that the Southwest Airlines model has won the battle. For passengers this is going to mean, lower fares, fewer 1st class seats (if any), very long connect times, and odd flight times. One of the major factors contributing to the change: online travel bookings. Why? Online travel sites typically list flights by cost, and not by the total travel time (as it is with most travel agent terminals), with the least expensive at the top. Low cost usually wins given this lay-out. Check it at this pay-for WSJ link. Marketeers might say "duh, yeah John... presentation", but rodcorp likes how John puts it: the humble Sort by... list, destroyer of incumbents... 10:35:03 PM     comments