What it means to be dreamed?

[Quest4Kingdom]

Hi, I don't know where to ask this, but...
What exactly does it mean to be "dreamed"? And are there any connections as to why certain people might be selected? or is all random?
I heard there might be hidden microphones in the park and that's how they select deserving guests? Does anyone know how true these things might be?

[raidermatt]

I'd be very surprised if there was any true bias in the vast majority of prizes that are given away. It's a sweepstakes, and as such they have hired an outside firm to conduct the selections in an attempt to make it random.

Some will say it is not completely random because prizes can be awarded to guests on rides that some other guests are unable to ride. But I think that's nitpicking.

I'm sure it's pretty random, though I wouldn't be completely shocked if it ever came out that a few winners were selected for other reasons, but that's just speculation on my part.

What I am sure about is that it's a lame promotion.

[Quest4Kingdom]

Hmmmm. I'm not meaning to imply anything at all, I would've just thought they might've did something similar like Extreme HOmemake over and selected some people who would truly appreciate and had their "dreams come true" so-to-speak... which would seem like a very thoughtful idea, but then there will always be others who think it's unfair... so i guess random selection seems more fair- ?

[EUROPACL]

The really bad part of this whole scam is they have taken something that Disney use to do as a standard guest experience and turned it into a cheap marketing ploy to make you think that getting a fastpass or a free Coke is some great gift from the Mouse you just paid $60 bucks to wait in line to see.

[Quest4Kingdom]

Sorry, I still don't know what getting dreamed means? you win a free coke?
what usually happens?:confused:

[Figment1983]

While waiting in line in epcot for the living seas with nemo ride there were some cast members handing out dream fast passes. Basically was a card with a fast pass for all the rides at epcot, so we were able to see everything without waiting in any lines. They were handed out to probably about 100 people in the line.

[CarnotaurDad]

Can't speak for all, but here are some dreams I have seen or experienced:

* Fastpasses to all fastpass rides at a park (i.e. AK, MK)
* Dream Ears (Mickey ears with the DCT promotion on them)
* 1/2 hour Pontoon Boat ride
* Specific fastpasses to an attraction
* Free meals
* Pins and lanyards

[raidermatt]

Hmmmm. I'm not meaning to imply anything at all, I would've just thought they might've did something similar like Extreme HOmemake over and selected some people who would truly appreciate and had their "dreams come true" so-to-speak... which would seem like a very thoughtful idea, but then there will always be others who think it's unfair... so i guess random selection seems more fair- ?

Since it's basically a sweepstakes they need to make it as random as possible for legal reasons.

[Quest4Kingdom]

I didn't know it was a sweepstakes kind of thing... or a promotional type of deal. Get-it now. I just saw a comment of "Hope you get dreamed" and didn't know what it mean...
Thanks for clueing me in on this! ( Hey, I'm fairly new here and still "earning my ears"!)
::MinnieMo

[Sarangel]

To be dreamed means to win one of the prizes in the Year of a Million Dreams promotion (now at your local Disney location). The prizes range in scope from pins to a free Disney Vacation Club (DVC) membership to a trip around the world to see all the Disney parks.

We won a dream for our daughter last February - she was granted a private audience with Cinderella (about 15 minutes). Very cool for her and (here's my cynical side speaking) cheap for the company.

[Another Voice]

Also there are certain attractions and other areas that will let guests participate in "dreams". These are really just what used to be everyday guest service standards for Disney before they turned the parks into WalMouse.

These things include riding in the wheelhouse of the steamship or helping a cast member with a spiel or getting to sit in "special" seats.


P.S. - If a FastPass to a single attraction is now considered a "dream", there's really no point in Disney at all these days.

[doconeill]

The really bad part of this whole scam is they have taken something that Disney use to do as a standard guest experience and turned it into a cheap marketing ploy to make you think that getting a fastpass or a free Coke is some great gift from the Mouse you just paid $60 bucks to wait in line to see.

That just seems more cynical than your usual... :)

I don't recall Disney giving Dream Fastpasses as part of the "standard guest experience" before...

Yes, a majority of the prizes are cheap. But there are some pretty darned expensive ones out there too.

Selection is done by a computer. It chooses a location anywhere on property (or it could choose the "postcard bin", which is where you can send a postcard to be randomly chosen), a time, additional criteria if necessary (say, 4th person exiting the attraction), and a prize. Dream Team members have no discretion, so that it is truly random.

The size of the winners pool chosen can vary with the prize, say, for Dream Fastpasses or Mickey Ears it could be everyone on the ride vehicle - for a Castle stay, it would be narrowed to select an individual and their family/group.

Some prizes can only be given at the parks, like the Castle stay, so if the postcard bin is chosen, some sort of alternate prize is awarded.

Hmmm...220 more DVC points, with all fees paid...that would be sweet...

[EUROPACL]

That just seems more cynical than your usual... :)

I don't recall Disney giving Dream Fastpasses as part of the "standard guest experience" before...



I think you missing my point...not that every guest through the door would get "Dream Fastpasses" (gosh what a horrible name,idea and image that implies)....rather that Disney in the past often prerformed random acts of kindness for its guest. Now the only difference is a grand prize and a cheap marketing scam to go along with them.

[doconeill]

I think you missing my point...not that every guest through the door would get "Dream Fastpasses" (gosh what a horrible name,idea and image that implies)....rather that Disney in the past often prerformed random acts of kindness for its guest. Now the only difference is a grand prize and a cheap marketing scam to go along with them.

Actually, I think some of those things don't formally fall under the "prizes" of YOAMD, but are at least being placed under the banner. Not sure if I can explain it correctly.

Yes, they are doing some of the same things, and calling them Dreams. They can call them whatever they want - why shouldn't they use the banner of YOAMD? However, those things aren't part of the prize pool as such.

Are people actually being short-changed by it? I don't think so. Not everyone gets to be in the parade - someone was always chosen. They'll still be chosen to ride in the parade when YOAMD ends. But perhaps by placing it under the banner, someone might feel just a little MORE special at being chosen.

But they've added plenty more things that they DIDN'T use to do.

I really don't see the point in being so cynical about this promotion.

[EUROPACL]

Actually, I think some of those things don't formally fall under the "prizes" of YOAMD, but are at least being placed under the banner. Not sure if I can explain it correctly.

I really don't see the point in being so cynical about this promotion.


Come live your Disney dreams like never before during The Year of a Million Dreams celebration. Over a million dreams will be randomly awarded by Disney Cast Members, including:
Overnight stays in the new Cinderella Castle Suite at Magic Kingdom® Park
Complimentary accommodations in the new Mickey Mouse Penthouse at the Disneyland® Hotel
DREAM FASTPASS® badges to enjoy popular Disney attractions with little or no wait
A Grand Marshal World Tour trip to Disney Parks around the globe!


You seem to know me well enough ( from your comments about me) to know that I'm pretty cynical about a lot of what Disney does these days. I'm sorry that I'm not as giddy as you are over the thought of sleeping in the castle and that I haven't planned a special trip down to Florida just for a chance to get a fastpass for a ride that I should not be waiting for anyway.

[doconeill]

You seem to know me well enough ( from your comments about me) to know that I'm pretty cynical about a lot of what Disney does these days. I'm sorry that I'm not as giddy as you are over the thought of sleeping in the castle and that I haven't planned a special trip down to Florida just for a chance to get a fastpass for a ride that I should not be waiting for anyway.

But you quoted a list of prizes that ARE exclusively part of the YOAMD and did not exist before, but complain that the everyday things they did before are somehow cheapened. I was talking about those everyday things, which really haven't change other than being called Dreams during the promotion.

The Castle/Penthouse stays, Dream Fastpasses, etc. are all new.

So I don't understand what it is you are complaining about, other than just wanting to complain.

[paulh]

think when next years deams(yep its extended) is over,they will start giving dream FPs to resort guests per room per night , one a day to values,2 a day to mods and 3 a day to deluxes(folkes staying in the pop dvc will get 4 a day)
Paulh

[doconeill]

think when next years deams(yep its extended) is over,they will start giving dream FPs to resort guests per room per night , one a day to values,2 a day to mods and 3 a day to deluxes(folkes staying in the pop dvc will get 4 a day)
Paulh

There are only mild rumors that they might give fastpasses to onsite guests, and its anyone's guess as to how that will be done. But it really has no bearing on the discussion at hand. What Disney does after YOAMD is not in question.

[EUROPACL]

But you quoted a list of prizes that ARE exclusively part of the YOAMD and did not exist before, but complain that the everyday things they did before are somehow cheapened. I was talking about those everyday things, which really haven't change other than being called Dreams during the promotion.

The Castle/Penthouse stays, Dream Fastpasses, etc. are all new.

So I don't understand what it is you are complaining about, other than just wanting to complain.

Yes a trip to all of the Disney parks is a "dream". Staying in the castle might be a dream for some. Fastpasses, cokes, ears are not dreams calling them such is the problem and cheap...once again when those things were done in the past without a cheap marketing plan. You can pretend all that you like about not understanding but I really think you do. As you know this is not a single issue subject as far as decline in Disney and this really just a another step further from the real Disney.

[paulh]

There are only mild rumors that they might give fastpasses to onsite guests, and its anyone's guess as to how that will be done. But it really has no bearing on the discussion at hand. What Disney does after YOAMD is not in question.

:confused3 why can you talk about somthing differernt,read a lot of your posts and non one elce?anywhy FPs are dreams thats why i talked about it
Paulh

[doconeill]

Yes a trip to all of the Disney parks is a "dream". Staying in the castle might be a dream for some. Fastpasses, cokes, ears are not dreams calling them such is the problem and cheap...once again when those things were done in the past without a cheap marketing plan. You can pretend all that you like about not understanding but I really think you do. As you know this is not a single issue subject as far as decline in Disney and this really just a another step further from the real Disney.

No, I don't understand your argument, and I've given up trying. You called it a "scam", which implies that someone has somehow been harmed. Aside from potentially the stockholders if this costs more than they they made, that doesn't seem likely. I was trying to get your reasons, but I have failed to do so, as it seems to be a moving target.

A castle stay does not appeal to me, directly. Would I love one? Yes, because it would be special for my kids, and at least to date they would have enjoyed something that few have.

:confused3 why can you talk about somthing differernt,read a lot of your posts and non one elce?anywhy FPs are dreams thats why i talked about it
Paulh

I was responding to europacl's comments that YOAMD was a scam. I wasn't talking about something different.

I'm bowing out of this thread. I hope the OP's question has been answered, and recommend further questions be directed to the YOAMD specific forum (http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?f=147)

[paulh]

No, I don't understand your argument, and I've given up trying. You called it a "scam", which implies that someone has somehow been harmed. Aside from potentially the stockholders if this costs more than they they made, that doesn't seem likely. I was trying to get your reasons, but I have failed to do so, as it seems to be a moving target.

A castle stay does not appeal to me, directly. Would I love one? Yes, because it would be special for my kids, and at least to date they would have enjoyed something that few have.



I was responding to europacl's comments that YOAMD was a scam. I wasn't talking about something different.

Time to stop feeding the trolls.
Still :confused3 and i belive europacl
Paulh

[Sarangel]

Guys, please remember to play nicer. No name calling or personal attacks (and yes, "trolls" counts as an attack). If you disagree, find a polite way to disagree please.

[doconeill]

Guys, please remember to play nicer. No name calling or personal attacks (and yes, "trolls" counts as an attack). If you disagree, find a polite way to disagree please.

My apologies...I have replaced that remark in my post.

[Another Voice]

You called it a "scam", which implies that someone has somehow been harmed. Aside from potentially the stockholders if this costs more than they they made, that doesn't seem likely.
Because it used to be the operating plan that every guest was treated special, that every guest was, well - a guest. Cast members were told that they were the ones to decide how to make each guest's visit "magical".

Now Disney lets some computer decide who gets to be "special" by staying in a castle that I can never see. Or a computer decides who gets a lanyard with two pins. Or a computer decides who gets to cut in line with a "special" FastPass.

There's no customer service there. There's no cast member seeing a little girl in a princess dress and deciding - a human decision - to point out Cinderella around the corner. Now it's just a luck of a draw without any care or concern other than what lawyers think up.

There's no "magic" in a corporate giveaway that spews out trinkets at random.

The magic comes from people going out there way to make others feel special, to meet their special needs, to understand what would make this guest's stay more pleasant when someone else might. The castle stay doesn't go to the ill little girl from the town that collected money to send her to WDW - it goes to whoever happens to be sitting on the third bench next outside "Malstrom' at 10:08am. Or maybe they'll get a free churro instead.

How "magical" is that?

[doconeill]

Because it used to be the operating plan that every guest was treated special, that every guest was, well - a guest. Cast members were told that they were the ones to decide how to make each guest's visit "magical".

Now Disney lets some computer decide who gets to be "special" by staying in a castle that I can never see. Or a computer decides who gets a lanyard with two pins. Or a computer decides who gets to cut in line with a "special" FastPass.

There's no customer service there. There's no cast member seeing a little girl in a princess dress and deciding - a human decision - to point out Cinderella around the corner. Now it's just a luck of a draw without any care or concern other than what lawyers think up.

There's no "magic" in a corporate giveaway that spews out trinkets at random.

The magic comes from people going out there way to make others feel special, to meet their special needs, to understand what would make this guest's stay more pleasant when someone else might. The castle stay doesn't go to the ill little girl from the town that collected money to send her to WDW - it goes to whoever happens to be sitting on the third bench next outside "Malstrom' at 10:08am. Or maybe they'll get a free churro instead.

How "magical" is that?

WHY WHY WHY did I click on this thread again? :headache: I had to reply to this though.

IF (and I mean a really, big IF) they have stopped doing all the nice things they used to do in lieu of YOAMD, then I'd totally agree that Disney has totally trashed the magic.

However, I seriously don't think that's the case.

You don't need to win a Dream to spend some time with a character. Some Dreams do involve characters, however.

And no one could stay in the castle before YOAMD, so to say a little sick girl won't get that now really doesn't apply.

I'm pretty sure that CMs are doing all the same things they used to do to make stays magical, when they can. Perhaps less than in years past, as times have changed and yes, I believe the magic is fading - I just don't see that it has suddenly been replaced - I believe it has been augmented. SOME things that may have been discretionary before may be reserved for Dreams use, like opening of rides, etc., or may be CALLED Dreams but are still discretionary. It's the actual prize giveaways that are randomly chosen (as there are laws that actually get in the way).

The discretionary things that CMs do have another name that I've seen mentioned - they aren't called Dreams though...I think they are called Wishes...and they still exist.

If Walt was still around, WDW would be very different today. But he isn't, and the corporate world (and the world in general) is very different as well. The magic may have faded - but I don't think its gone yet.

[maxtomsmom]

Because it used to be the operating plan that every guest was treated special, that every guest was, well - a guest. Cast members were told that they were the ones to decide how to make each guest's visit "magical".

Now Disney lets some computer decide who gets to be "special" by staying in a castle that I can never see. Or a computer decides who gets a lanyard with two pins. Or a computer decides who gets to cut in line with a "special" FastPass.

There's no customer service there. There's no cast member seeing a little girl in a princess dress and deciding - a human decision - to point out Cinderella around the corner. Now it's just a luck of a draw without any care or concern other than what lawyers think up.

There's no "magic" in a corporate giveaway that spews out trinkets at random.

The magic comes from people going out there way to make others feel special, to meet their special needs, to understand what would make this guest's stay more pleasant when someone else might. The castle stay doesn't go to the ill little girl from the town that collected money to send her to WDW - it goes to whoever happens to be sitting on the third bench next outside "Malstrom' at 10:08am. Or maybe they'll get a free churro instead.

How "magical" is that?



I totally agree with you and some of the others on this. When we got back from our trip in Dec. many people asked if we received a prize. We did not, but we did receive some great treatment from some humane CMs. My mom because of a leg injury cannot ride on many rides as she is not able to bend her leg. At AK she was able to ride Primeval Whirl three times in row as it was one of the thrill rides she could stretch her leg out. The CMs saw how difficult it was for her to get in and out and said we can ride again. They saw the grin on her face the second trip and said one more time if we wanted. Now that is exactly what Walt would expect. The little things that made someone's day. This happened again at TOT, which she rode two times in a row without getting off. We weren't expecting it and the fact that they offered shows some remember Walt's dream. BTW - this was not a YOMD thing. This was just kind-hearted CMs. We don't need prizes or give aways just simple things to make you feel special once and a while without the hoopla.;)

[Another Voice]

But he isn't, and the corporate world (and the world in general) is very different as well.
Funny - that's the same lame excuse people told Walt when they said Disneyland would never work - this "modern world is too fast paced for a kiddie park" and "no legimate company would ever be associated with an amusement park - it's a dog-eat-dog world" and "Walt's Folly" and all the rest.

It was bogus in 1955, it's bogus fifty years later.


"Daddy, can I stay in the castle with Cinderella?"

Answer #1:
"I'm sorry, but the castle is special place that's for people who Cinderella invites to stay with her. Not every little girl has all the things that you have, not every little girl gets to come to Walt Disney World. Cinderella knows this, and when she learns about someone who is very sick, or someone that has done something really special, she asks them to come spend the night there. That way, little girls who might never, ever, get the chance to see the things that you can see can become as happy as you are here. Isn't that a nice thing for Cinderella to do?"

Answer #2:
"I'm sorry, but we're losers. We weren't standing in the right spot. Nothing you do, think, say or accomplish makes you good enought to stay in the castle - it's just dumb blind luck. The company thinks that if anyone gets a chance to stay there, they'll make a lot of money from the stupid who think they have a chance and come anyway. And the free photo in the local newspaper of the 'winning' family is more important to them than the dreams of little girls like you. Face it kid - the business world is different today. No one cares about you. Life is nothing but luck and the rich people who run this place are just better than you. Now shut-up and get out you Disney Dining Plan card, Daddy wants a beer."

[Wick]

Bottom line...

I'd like to see most of you anti-YOAMD crowd go into the parks and turn down a freebie (be it a FP or a cruise) on the basis that: "Well these are just an extension of WalDisney's cheapo marketing ploy and should be standard in WDW anyhow"

I mean come on. As deplorable a campaign you may believe YOAMD to be, would any of you honestly respond this way if YOU were approached for a dream?

I understand what many of you are saying about "dreams" being a part of standard Disney interaction between CMs and guests. But many guests STILL receive that experience from the phenomenal CMs without it being part of YOAMD. IMO, YOAMD takes it a step further by tossing out free stuff. It seems like the biggest problem the anti-YOAMD crowd has is that this practice has been organized and given a title.

[EUROPACL]

Bottom line...

I'd like to see most of you anti-YOAMD crowd go into the parks and turn down a freebie (be it a FP or a cruise) on the basis that: "Well these are just an extension of WalDisney's cheapo marketing ploy and should be standard in WDW anyhow"

I mean come on. As deplorable a campaign you may believe YOAMD to be, would any of you honestly respond this way if YOU were approached for a dream?



This is exactly what I would do...

http://www.goenglish.com/GoEnglish_com_1DontLookAGiftHorseInTheMouth.gif

...No really I guess it depends on the situation and what the "dream" was. For example I could see a situation where I would give away something to a child or other person I think would enjoy it more than I would. I can say for sure that I would turn down a meeting with a character or a set of Mickey Ears. It just depends.

[Another Voice]

I've been "trinketed" twice at Disneyland. The first time was right after the program started. A Trinket Team was chucking out "All Park FastPasses" underneath the train station tunnel. The "team" consisted of about five people and a suit. They all had arm full of the passes.

I joined the crowd and picked up one because I have a rather extensive collection of "Disney Stupid" - stuff like the brochure from Disneyland's "Circus" event featuring 'The Globe of Death' in the middle of the plaza, a memo from Michael Eisner about complaining that WDI's annual parody of the studio newsletter was making fun of him, the press announcement for California Adventure, and Mathew McCounaghy's "body tatoo" screen test from Reign of Fire. I figured this would fit right in.

I didn't use any of the FastPasses by the way.

The second time I was walking down Main Street to meet a friend. Another Trinket Disposal Person was trying to give away those hideous silver and blue cloud "We're Too Cheap to Make Park Specific Merchandise So Where ever You Get This Is Where Dreams Come True" mouse ears. She told me - and anyone else within arm's reach that we've won a free hat. She was literally holding them out in front of people and blocking their path.

No one was taking them.

I almost took one just because she was looking like a six year old Girl Scout standing in front of the super market and no one was buying her cookies. Then it struck me that I would be forced to carry this headgear at least until I turned a corner and could dump it the trash can without her seeing it. I mean, she works for Disney...why add any more pain to her life.

So I declined. Fortunately it was just in time. The smell of free stuff was finally wafting down Main Street. I saw a large herd approaching - all agitated and drooling - the first signs of an annual passholder feeding frenzy. I escape with my life; I’m not sure not what happened to the women with the hats…I have a weak stomach for that kind of carnage.

Of my six days at WDW, I saw two members of the give away team walking through the park and a gaggle of teenage girls wearing the silver & blue mouse ears.

Sadly, no one tempted me with a night in the castle (I’m not going to loose my day to a parade, a bad dinner, and an 9:00pm curfew), a free cruise (I prefer ships with more firepower), a shopping spree at Downtown Disney (Legos to the masses) or any of the other prized I would gladly turn down.

[DancingBear]

Not everyone gets to be in the parade - someone was always chosen. They'll still be chosen to ride in the parade when YOAMD ends. But perhaps by placing it under the banner, someone might feel just a little MORE special at being chosen.I really doubt that any family chosen to be in a parade feels MORE special this year than in the past. But we do know that some people feel like they missed out on something because they didn't get chosen for anything. Just seems like it's not a very well thought-out or effective promotion.

And then there's added frustration because this is being done hand-in-hand with the "Disney Parks" program which has displaced unique merchandise and pushed aside an important event like Epcot's 25th. AND there's frustration in looking at this program in conjunction with the decline in training and customer service in general.

[Lucky'sMom]

Yes, we were one of the lucky ones! When we received our lunch order at Tusker House in the AK, we "won" a blue frosted cupcake that Tinkerbell had made herself! That was the only dream we "won" in January, and we were so excited! (Ha-Ha).:rolleyes:

[TheLastPrincess]

My question is, what happens when YOAMD ends? And it WILL end, someday, although tentatively not until 12/08.

I have mixed feelings about the whole thing. Superficially, it is simply a marketing ploy. It is no better than your average, every-day sweepstakes by your average, every-day business...such as McDonald's. In fact, it could be considered worse: when a family comes home from their vacation, feeling "jipped" they had not won anything...well, that's just sad. Who goes to McDonald's for the contest? We don't win, we say, "oh well," and we enjoy (or not) our lunch and move on. We don't feel like we've been snubbed.

Due to legal reasons, however, it was smart for Disney to hire a company to have them computerize and randomize the sweepstakes process.

But in my opinion, it would have been so much better if Disney decided to do their YOAMD, but not advertise it, and then the person winning the DVC membership would feel all that more special, because it WOULD seem like a dream come true. Instead of a marketing ploy, it could have been a corporate decision to inspire the cast members, to strengthen their own company policy of stellar service.

Unfortunately, the opposite has happened, according to the families who have recently returned from WDW: the quality of food is dwindling down, the prices are going up, the "stellar" service is anything but, and to top it off they are feeling "jipped" by Disney's own marketing ploy.

This is inexcusable. I have been a fan of Disney since I stepped on property with my 5-year-old feet. I remember the stellar service. I remember when it was truly special to be selected to be part of something magical, even if it was only to be MGM's "Family of the Day." And then the experience last year of getting engaged there...THAT was "The Disney Way." Now, they have watered it down to a marketing ploy.

IF they pull out a "Room Rate" to stay in Cindy's castle, what was once envisioned as Walt Disney's own personal suite, I will write them a scathing letter. It is fine for them to continue using it as a random prize, a priceless experience, but if they put a price tag on something like that (like they do so many other things), well....the dream is over for me.

Are you listening, Disney?

[paulh]

will now be named AEOAMD an eturnity of a million dreams now?
Paulh

[raidermatt]

If Walt was still around, WDW would be very different today. But he isn't, and the corporate world (and the world in general) is very different as well.
Different, but same.

The magic may have faded - but I don't think its gone yet.
And that's good enough for you?

[BeLLaNoTTe]

.....edit: wrong thread

[Wick]

It is no better than your average, every-day sweepstakes by your average, every-day business...such as McDonald's. In fact, it could be considered worse: when a family comes home from their vacation, feeling "jipped" they had not won anything...well, that's just sad. Who goes to McDonald's for the contest? We don't win, we say, "oh well," and we enjoy (or not) our lunch and move on. We don't feel like we've been snubbed.

No better than a McDonald's sweepstakes? Absurd.

Next time you're offered FPs to space mountain, you should stand up for what you believe in, kindly tell the CM about your disdain for the so-called marketing ploy, and tell him to go toss them to a guest who doesn't know any better (preferably me!)

[Another Voice]

McDonald's let me win a million dollars.

The biggest and best prize that Disney offers is less than they spent on doughnuts for the second unit of Pirates of the Caribbean: At Talent's End. And the rumor is the winner of the top prize (a visit to all Disney Parks) turned out to be ineligle so Disney isn't awarding it at all (note: this is only a rumor I've heard, it still needs to be verified. Don't cancel your trip because of this one - I'm just [u]sure[/i] the lucky winner Disney is waiting for).

And if "winning" two FastPasses to Space Mountain brings thrills and joy to your life - finding an extra ten bucks in pants pocket while doing your laundry must make you giidy for months on end.

[ursijam]

Because it used to be the operating plan that every guest was treated special, that every guest was, well - a guest. Cast members were told that they were the ones to decide how to make each guest's visit "magical".

Now Disney lets some computer decide who gets to be "special" by staying in a castle that I can never see. Or a computer decides who gets a lanyard with two pins. Or a computer decides who gets to cut in line with a "special" FastPass.

There's no customer service there. There's no cast member seeing a little girl in a princess dress and deciding - a human decision - to point out Cinderella around the corner. Now it's just a luck of a draw without any care or concern other than what lawyers think up.

There's no "magic" in a corporate giveaway that spews out trinkets at random.

The magic comes from people going out there way to make others feel special, to meet their special needs, to understand what would make this guest's stay more pleasant when someone else might. The castle stay doesn't go to the ill little girl from the town that collected money to send her to WDW - it goes to whoever happens to be sitting on the third bench next outside "Malstrom' at 10:08am. Or maybe they'll get a free churro instead.

How "magical" is that?


I have to disagree that anything has changed. The CMs still have the same ability to provide a magical experience as they always have. There are only certain items that are officially "dreams". I have not received any of them, but we did still experience a ton of magical moments from the cast with whom we interacted. [Free pins for my DD who was being good waiting for my DW to feed our son at the baby care center. Becoming a member of the 100 acre wood family and getting all of the character's autographs. More free pins at Artist Point. Just to name a few...]

I would love to get something "official", but that doesn't change the nature of it.

[Wick]

I have to disagree that anything has changed. The CMs still have the same ability to provide a magical experience as they always have. There are only certain items that are officially "dreams". I have not received any of them, but we did still experience a ton of magical moments from the cast with whom we interacted. [Free pins for my DD who was being good waiting for my DW to feed our son at the baby care center. Becoming a member of the 100 acre wood family and getting all of the character's autographs. More free pins at Artist Point. Just to name a few...]

I would love to get something "official", but that doesn't change the nature of it.

well-put

[Another Voice]

So "free pins" is now a "magical moment"?

This is exactly why so many people dislike and distrust the whole concept. Trinkets, giveaways, marketing - all in place of good service, quality food, well stocked stores with interesting merchandise, fresh attractions.

Funny, but Disney World was massively successful when it [u]didn't[u] give out trinkets. The fact that such things are now offical company policy - complete with spiffy, focus group tested names, is a clear indication that something's gone very wrong. People that don't or wouldn't understand the core of the business always focus in the trival.

It's nothing more than when Ford spent millions on developing a special spray on "new car smell" scent while ignoring basic engineering. Yup, the car smelt purdy, but it fell apart after 35,000 miles. People catch on eventually.

And so to with Disney. Room discounts, free food, trinkets by the Chinese shipload...all of these weren't done when Disney offered a great product at a good value. But for a management team that's unwilling to give guests good value, these are their focus. The fans may be distracted by shiny objects, but normal people aren't. They see the drop in value and they act.

[toaster6.54]

And if "winning" two FastPasses to Space Mountain brings thrills and joy to your life - finding an extra ten bucks in pants pocket while doing your laundry must make you giidy for months on end.

Why do you resort to ridicule ?

If "winning" two FastPasses brings happiness to someone, great.

As for McD's: The odds of me winning The Million are pretty slim, but I'd love to walk into one someday and have them give me a pass to the front of the line. Might even make me giidy.

[ursijam]

So "free pins" is now a "magical moment"?

This is exactly why so many people dislike and distrust the whole concept. Trinkets, giveaways, marketing - all in place of good service, quality food, well stocked stores with interesting merchandise, fresh attractions.

Funny, but Disney World was massively successful when it [u]didn't[u] give out trinkets. The fact that such things are now offical company policy - complete with spiffy, focus group tested names, is a clear indication that something's gone very wrong. People that don't or wouldn't understand the core of the business always focus in the trival.

It's nothing more than when Ford spent millions on developing a special spray on "new car smell" scent while ignoring basic engineering. Yup, the car smelt purdy, but it fell apart after 35,000 miles. People catch on eventually.

And so to with Disney. Room discounts, free food, trinkets by the Chinese shipload...all of these weren't done when Disney offered a great product at a good value. But for a management team that's unwilling to give guests good value, these are their focus. The fans may be distracted by shiny objects, but normal people aren't. They see the drop in value and they act.

I will attempt to be nice here. That is the policy...

None of the things that I mentioned were part of any marketing campaign.

Each one of these is just an example of my overall experience at WDW. They were not part of any marketing campaign. They were just CMs who were enjoying their jobs and enjoyed doing something for a child and my family. I am sorry that you cannot accept that someone has a different view from you.

Maybe it is how you approach the time that you spend there. If you walk around expecting that people will not be nice to you, then that is most likely what will happen. I am sure that there were plenty of people who were there when we were who did not receive any kind of above and beyond service. Maybe it should be a "right", but I think that the world is too full of entitlements as it is. You are definitely entitled to good/quality service, but you should not expect to me raised up on a pedestal if you conduct your life in such a way as to not deserve it...

[toaster6.54]

It's nothing more than when Ford spent millions on developing a special spray on "new car smell" scent while ignoring basic engineering. Yup, the car smelt purdy, but it fell apart after 35,000 miles. People catch on eventually.

Actually, Ford & other manufactures are spending millions to reduce the natural "new car smell" that is being emitted from the plastics, leathers & carpets because medical studies are finding these chemical odors could be harmfull.

[Wick]

Each one of these is just an example of my overall experience at WDW. They were not part of any marketing campaign. They were just CMs who were enjoying their jobs and enjoyed doing something for a child and my family.

Exactly. YOAMD hasn't diluted the usual Disney treatment we all get at WDW, at least in the few times I've visited since the whole thing got started.
I mean, it's not like regular CMs are slacking off because "well, the Dream Squad is doing all that anyway."

[Jason71]

A friend of mine used to do Wishes cruises out of an MK hotel (he's since moved, but I still feel no need to "out" him). Whenever he had a cancellation, he would walk through the lobby and give some random couple a "dream" cruise.

Not so much because Disney has instilled a sense of customer service in him--because he wanted to make sure he got tips.

[Another Voice]

You are definitely entitled to good/quality service, but you should not expect to me raised up on a pedestal if you conduct your life in such a way as to not deserve it...
You've brought "blame the audience" to a whole new level.

You're absolutely right. I don't deserve free pins. I am a bad person. I don't see the natural goodness in all things Disney - like you. I lack the special "magical" glow that makes cast members want to give me pins. Maybe if I didn't go around kicking cast members in the shin they would grant my dream of a $3.99 small Mickey Mouse plush toy.

Being evil is so depressing some times.

If only I could learn the golden rule that Disney's Giant Giveaway Computer knows who's been naughty and who's been nice, I too would as wonderful a person as those that recieve their dreams...

[ursijam]

You've brought "blame the audience" to a whole new level.


You have to "blame the audience".

The exact thing that you want Disney to "provide" is that special interaction with a CM. They are going to go out of their way for you if they have a positive experience with them. If you are not open to that contact or if you are a pain in the butt to the CM, there isn't any motivation to do anything special for you. You should still get top-notch service, but you shouldn't expect to be treated in some special manner because it is "Disney".

I don't see the natural goodness in all things Disney - like you. I lack the special "magical" glow that makes cast members want to give me pins.

It has nothing to do with Disney. It is just human nature of the people with whom you are dealing. You will get better treatment with all things in life by reacting positively. [Not being naive, just telling you my experience.]


If only I could learn the golden rule that Disney's Giant Giveaway Computer knows who's been naughty and who's been nice, I too would as wonderful a person as those that recieve their dreams...

That is one thing that I think you should be happy with...

With the marketing of YOAMD, even unpleasant people will receive dreams.

[Another Voice]

That is one thing that I think you should be happy with...

With the marketing of YOAMD, even unpleasant people will receive dreams.
Yes, it makes getting out of my secret lair worth the bother.

Of course you're correct. Special "dreams" given by cast members need to go only to the "right kind of people". I guess the rest of us will just have to remember our places.

Enjoy your free pin. May it bring you years of happiness, joy and comfort. I hope The Walt Disney Company continues to shower you with a largess of material goods. Rush through the gates for the Magic Kingdom, for I am sure a special Dream Team member is waiting just for you with a very extra-special dream that can only be given to those that are truly better people than the rest of us. And most of all, please know that you are truly a superior person to me and all the lowly pond scum that I represent.



In the meantime, I and others will continue on the proud tradition of Disney - the Real Disney, not the trinket-giving "Magic Disney" - and attempt to make the world just a little bit better place. We will not accept free pins, we will work hard on movies, in the parks, on the stage believing that quality, imagination and hard work are the real drivers of success - not cheap marketing ploys designed for the self-important and the gullible.

There is not a free hat or a special hotel room that will ever give me as much pure joy as watching a child enthralled with a movie I helped make. Nothing any Disney computer will randomly give to me is as valuable as knowing that what I have created will last well beyond me because of what I learned from the Real Disney.

I choose to be judged based on what I accomplish. Others seem to be valued on what they are given.

[ursijam]

Yes, it makes getting out of my secret lair worth the bother.

Of course you're correct. Special "dreams" given by cast members need to go only to the "right kind of people". I guess the rest of us will just have to remember our places.

Enjoy your free pin. May it bring you years of happiness, joy and comfort. I hope The Walt Disney Company continues to shower you with a largess of material goods. Rush through the gates for the Magic Kingdom, for I am sure a special Dream Team member is waiting just for you with a very extra-special dream that can only be given to those that are truly better people than the rest of us. And most of all, please know that you are truly a superior person to me and all the lowly pond scum that I represent.



In the meantime, I and others will continue on the proud tradition of Disney - the Real Disney, not the trinket-giving "Magic Disney" - and attempt to make the world just a little bit better place. We will not accept free pins, we will work hard on movies, in the parks, on the stage believing that quality, imagination and hard work are the real drivers of success - not cheap marketing ploys designed for the self-important and the gullible.

There is not a free hat or a special hotel room that will ever give me as much pure joy as watching a child enthralled with a movie I helped make. Nothing any Disney computer will randomly give to me is as valuable as knowing that what I have created will last well beyond me because of what I learned from the Real Disney.

I choose to be judged based on what I accomplish. Others seem to be valued on what they are given.

It is unfortunate that you cannot read what other people say.

You are still stuck on your broken record of "I am right" and "Everyone else is wrong".

As to the very children that you seem to care so greatly about, having someone give them a random act of kindness (in any way) is what makes them happy. It is having the experience. It is having something to walk away with. It is having the memory with their family.


If you ever decide to get off your high-horse, then we could continue the discussion.

[BTW... Movies can be special. Movies also act as the new babysitter for a lot of parents. The children will get much more out of spending quality time with their family.]

[Another Voice]

It is having the experience. It is having something to walk away with.
And this is our fundemental disagreement. I do not believe a trinket given at random to a child is anything special. I would much rather Disney focus on making the entire experience for everyone as good as it can be, rather than spending time and effort on a marketing campaign designed to give hope to people that they might become part of a small, extra-special group.

I want to teach my children that getting their dreams is in their control -that if they work hard enough and deserve it, they can earn what they want. 'The Year of a Million Dreams' teaches that trips to Cinderella's castle are nothing but a random act of consumerism given by a corporation to its customers.

[ursijam]

I do not believe a trinket given at random to a child is anything special.

The child does.



I want to teach my children that getting their dreams is in their control -that if they work hard enough and deserve it, they can earn what they want.

(I am sure that you will disagree ;) , but... )

I think that we finally agree. As far as working hard enough and deserving it, I think that that is why the CMs comment to my daughter and are nice to her. They see a three year old who is well behaved and polite. That is someone who is working hard and deserves the special treatment. The children throwing tantrums in the middle of the walkway because they cannot ride Dumbo for the twelth time do not deserve it.

It is interesting that you talk about being able to earn something and that it should be available to all in the same thought.

[Another Voice]

I would hope it would be the parent's job to reward the well behaved child, or punish the ill behaved one - not a corporation's.

And again - the central point to my dislike of 'YoMT' - how does a computer know the special pin lanyard is going to the "nice" child or the "bad" child? It seems that everything Disney is doing runs completely opposite of what you desire.

What's the problem with "It is interesting that you talk about being able to earn something and that it should be available to all in the same thought." I thought was was the basis of American society - that everyone has an equal chance to achieve what is within their abilities.

That concept was something that has been strongly rooted in everything about the parks since Disneyland opened in 1955. Everyone could buy the same tickets for the same experience -there were no "special seats" for the rich or poor; black, white, brown; or for those randomly choosen so they could feel superior to those not chosen.

[Wick]

I respect all of your opinions and I love having this board as a forum to exchange ideas, but at the same time I realize that many here can't be pleased with anything Disney has done in recent years. It seems like unless Walt himself came back from the dead and took control again, Disney can't get anything right in pretty much any aspect of the business.

What solidifies this notion even more is (in the thread titled "Positive WDW Remarks") most of the naysayers can't name one tangible aspect of WDW that appeals to them. I asked, What is it that keeps you coming back if you despise it so much? Most answered vaguely, citing a "hope" that Disney would find its roots again... even going so far as to cite Lassetter as the reason for sticking around.. Come on! The same people who can't admit they still get chills walking down Main Street or watching Philharmagic are *surprise* the same people who can't understand why a child would appreciate a free pin, and hey, even call it a bit of Disney magic (although we all know it's the big bad Disney suits and their cheap marketing ploy).

[Wick]

That concept was something that has been strongly rooted in everything about the parks since Disneyland opened in 1955. Everyone could buy the same tickets for the same experience -there were no "special seats" for the rich or poor; black, white, brown; or for those randomly choosen so they could feel superior to those not chosen.

Club 33?

So does that mean you're against things like ADRs or Fantasmic Dining Packages too??

[ursijam]

I give up. I don't think that you will ever get it or that Disney could ever do enough to make you happy.

[sarcasm on]
I hope that I continue to be treated as the special person that I am.

I hope that Disney continues to shower me with 37 cent items. I love it.

I hope that the Decade of a Million Dreams is right around the corner!

Maybe the computer will pick me to direct POTC 7.

I am entitled to everything everywhere. I will have to call them so that they can have my Dream Fast Passes, hats, and lanyards ready when I get to Main Street. [And, I better not have to wait in any lines to get them...]
[sarcasm off]

I am just glad that there are CMs who still enjoy being a part of Disney and making my time there special.

[Another Voice]

Most answered vaguely, citing a "hope" that Disney would find its roots again...
And that is my hope, that somehow the company will get back to its core and relearn all the things that made it a great business...that every guest is to be treated like a VIP, that you give the audience all the show that you can possibly give them, that imagination and talent is more important than money, that honest value is more works better than slick marketing.

And I will stand up and speak my mind when the company ignores those lessons and chooses the wrong path.

If that makes me less a "Disney fan" than others - I won't argue with you.

I don't get my spine tingled by a trading pin. Looking at a hunk of metal painted to look like a princess is devoid of any value.

But yes, walking down Main Street does make me feel something. The way the gas light flickers a night, the smell of candy filling the street, the sound of horseshoes on the pavement - it makes me feel in a different time and a different place.

That's my "Disney". It's not a set of characters or merchandise offered by a company - it's a group of artists that have the ability to make the impossible come to life. "Disney" is wandering the hallways of a haunted house, soaring into the space, or sitting on a steamboat feeling like I'm a thousand miles away from home.

"Disney" magic is not measured by the amount of stuff you have. Disney is trying to tell us different, and it looks like a lot of people have boughten into that concept. So we get more free pins and fewer "I never thought I'd see anything like that" moments.

So go ahead, snort and call me names. Tell me how sorry you are that I'm such an evil, un-nice person. Tell me how negative I am, how I hate everything and everybody.

But you're right. Your version of "Disney" will never make be happy becasue I know what Real Disney can do.

[cxcelica]

I respect all of your opinions and I love having this board as a forum to exchange ideas, but at the same time I realize that many here can't be pleased with anything Disney has done in recent years. It seems like unless Walt himself came back from the dead and took control again, Disney can't get anything right in pretty much any aspect of the business.

What solidifies this notion even more is (in the thread titled "Positive WDW Remarks") most of the naysayers can't name one tangible aspect of WDW that appeals to them. I asked, What is it that keeps you coming back if you despise it so much? Most answered vaguely, citing a "hope" that Disney would find its roots again... even going so far as to cite Lassetter as the reason for sticking around.. Come on! The same people who can't admit they still get chills walking down Main Street or watching Philharmagic are *surprise* the same people who can't understand why a child would appreciate a free pin, and hey, even call it a bit of Disney magic (although we all know it's the big bad Disney suits and their cheap marketing ploy).

Well Said. Also when these people are asked how would they fix it they respond with things like "they need to go back to telling good stories". Thats like being asked how can the Knicks become a better basketball team and answering "they need to get a center who can shoot the ball, rebound and play defense". Well that's obvious but not that helpful or useful.

[Wick]

"That concept was something that has been strongly rooted in everything about the parks since Disneyland opened in 1955. Everyone could buy the same tickets for the same experience -there were no "special seats" for the rich or poor; black, white, brown; or for those randomly choosen so they could feel superior to those not chosen."

Another Voice-

How do you explain Club 33 ?

Also what is your position on ADRs and the like?

[DancingBear]

Also when these people are asked how would they fix it they respond with things like "they need to go back to telling good stories". Thats like being asked how can the Knicks become a better basketball team and answering "they need to get a center who can shoot the ball, rebound and play defense". Well that's obvious but not that helpful or useful.Sure it is. It means that the Knicks should be looking to draft or trade for a good center. It means if the Knicks use their first round draft pick to get another small forward that's bad. Pixar knows how to "tell good stories" because that's what they put their effort into. Hiring the talent and supporting and managing the talent to produce a quality product.

But you're also selling "those people" short. Plenty of specific advice also provided. Like ditch the "Disney Parks" and other generification of the merchandise and get back to having interesting and differentiated merchandise available throughout the parks.