3 ms·
Some people underestimate the value of serving "I need X now, take my money already!" Small warehouses stocking high-value-density high-urgency items (memory ca
by ctdonath 13y ago
Some people underestimate the value of serving "I need X now, take my money already!" Small warehouses stocking high-value-density high-urgency items (memory cards, camera batteries, etc) delivered fast at high price would, direct profit aside, generate stark raging goodwill and intense consumer loyalty.
- jaynos 13y agoIsn't it still cheaper and easier to dispatch a bike messenger from that small warehouse instead of a drone?
- comrade_ogilvy 13y agoThe practical answer is probably to blend the technologies. In an urban environment, the bikes do the last mile. Very small drop off points with tiny specialized helipads would accept a stream of fast deliveries from the more distant real warehouses. Since the routes would be established, the computer technology demands would be modest. Get the package to the drop off point in 30-60 minutes by quad-copter. Get the package from there by bike in 30-60 minutes. There would be uncertainty based on the availability of human messengers, but routes and delivery times can be estimated/calculated by computer. "Estimated delivery in 79 minutes. Click yes?"
- ericd 13y agoYeah, I've paid $20 for a USB cable I needed now, and similar markups for camera memory, etc. I don't think the value of taking over the last of my in-person purchases can really be overstated for Amazon. It effectively means the end of comparison shopping, and frees them from competing mostly on price, as long as they don't abuse it.