"SAFETY MANAGEMENT IS OUR PRIORITY," DAVID POWELL SPEAKS TO TTGMICE
We've just received our copy of the latest TTGmice (Asia-Pacific's leading meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions resource) and we're so excited to see our managing director, David Powell featured on page 23! Read the interview below:
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Established in 1996, Asia Ability has offices in Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Vietnam, and also holds regular events in Australia, Hong Kong, China, the Philippines and Indonesia. Each of its team programmes falls under one of eight abilities – Activeability, Businessability, Createability, Exploreability, Innovateability, Interactability, Responsability and Rhythmability.
Paige Lee Pei Qi speaks to managing director David Powell.
How do you assess a client’s ability to do an adventure?
The key part of the event design process is to align the desire, preferences, profile of participants and their physical ability to the proposed team adventure activity. Once the programme and activities are finalised, and the participants are selected by the client, each individual would be requested to provide a brief medical history and any specific dietary requirements.
Have you ever said no?
We have indeed declined clients who have requested specific adventure activities for their teams. Safety is Asia Ability’s top and a non-negotiable priority and if we do not believe that a particular activity, venue, external provider or weather conditions will allow the event to be conducted, we will decline, although in most cases we will propose an alternative.
How do you prep up the team before the big event? Any training required?
We provide a detailed event briefing well in advance – this is normally in written format and includes an equipment list, an outline of the itinerary, tips for success and training suggestions. Some clients arrange for this briefing to be done in a face-to-face presentation which works well when logistically possible as it already begins the team development process.
Depending on the nature of the activity and the level of physical challenge, training is recommended. For multi-day adventures it works well for teams to be formed in advance and for teams to do some training together.
What safety measures/insurance are in place?
Asia Ability and our sister company Ability Expeditions pride ourselves in managing all our activities and facilities to international safety standards. We conduct detailed risk assessments, do extensive staff training on safety management, provide high quality equipment and strive to create a safety culture among all participants. We hold appropriate public liability insurance for the events.
How many accidents have occurred? Why?
We have been operating for 16 years with no major incidents. Safety management is our top priority and this focus reduces the risk factors significantly.
What risks do you bear? Are prices thus higher?
Good insurance, qualified staff and quality equipment are all expensive but are vital components to a safe and successful corporate adventure.
Prices need to reflect the substantial time, staff and expenses involved in creating and managing such activities.
Is it a profitable business?
Such activities are still quite a niche offering and as such it is difficult for us to run a successful business with only these types of events on offer. Thus, they are part of a wider offering of creative teambuilding events.
What are the pros and cons of running this business?
The amount of preparation and planning time for a two to five-day event is substantial, often months in advance, thus can be draining on our resources.
What rewards do companies gain from adventure teambuilding?
These activities create powerful bonds between people and such a shared experience is never forgotten. When people are challenged to step out of their comfort zone in a well-managed, safe environment, there is a huge opportunity for self development.
How do suppliers track the gains?
We offer clients the option of a follow-up session with the participants to discuss with them the impacts and benefits of their shared experience. In addition, many participants share their feedback and comments with us both informally and through formal surveys.
What are the biggest myths about adventure activities?
A big myth is that participants need to be very athletic or super fit to participate – we design and conduct adventure experiences that anyone can participate in and enjoy. I have in the past guided a 77-year-old executive to the top of Mt Kinabalu!
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Thank you for the feature TTGmice! You can also read the interview with other adventure creators here. It's such an insightful and inspiring read!
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