BUSINESS SPARKS

In this series, the WBN highlights how members have adapted to changing business and consumer contexts by innovating within the business. By sharing their stories of change, we hope it gives confidence and insight to other Wheatbelt businesses.

THE GRAVITY DISCOVERY CENTRE

Jan Devlin and her team operate an interactive and educational Gravity Centre and Observatory, servicing the tourism and education industries.

STRATEGIES YOU HAD IN PLACE BEFORE COVID-19

The most significant measure the team had in place prior to COVID-19, was a reasonable bank balance protecting them from a decline in income and a stable, reliable and well-connected staff base that were willing to help. Prior to COVID-19 the Centre had 14 employees and they have successfully retained 10.

INNOVATIONS DURING COVID-19

=> ONLINE EXPERIENCES  The Centre launched new free online astronomy experiences to keep regular customers engaged and to attract new ones.

=> DIVERSITY The team is currently working on an enhanced customer experience as well as customer service model and a new fundraising strategy.

=> STAFF Positions have been re-designed, staff are working from home on projects that will enhance the experience when they can re-open.

ADVICE TO WHEATBELT BUSINESSES

If we can all hang in there and see this through, we will all be better at the end of COVID-19. (Even though that seems so hard at times).