How Visitor Attractions Can Balance Technology and Human Interaction - Bala McAlinn episode artwork

EPISODE · May 27, 2026 · 40 MIN

How Visitor Attractions Can Balance Technology and Human Interaction - Bala McAlinn

from Skip the Queue · host Andy Povey, Bala McAlinn

In this episode of Skip the Queue, Andy Povey is joined by Bala McAlinn, Managing Director Complete Works to discuss how visitor attractions can balance technology with authentic human interaction. Bala shares how storytelling, performance techniques and well-trained frontline teams can transform guest experiences, increase revenue and encourage repeat visits, while exploring why technology should support human connection rather than replace it.   Topics Discussed Balancing technology and human interaction in attractions Why storytelling improves guest experiences Using theatrical techniques in visitor attractions Training frontline teams to create memorable interactions How live experiences increase revenue and repeat visits The importance of authentic human connection Christmas and Halloween event production for attractions Creating immersive shows and seasonal experiences Why attractions should invest in people as well as technology The role of confidence and communication in guest engagement How attractions can improve experiences without major budgets Using staff feedback to improve visitor experiences The growing importance of experiential entertainment Networking and collaboration within the attractions industry Why events and live experiences encourage repeat visitation   Show references:    Bala McAlinn - Managing Director Complete Works www.complete-works.co.uk https://www.linkedin.com/company/completeworks/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/bala-mcalinn-05406683/   Skip the Queue is brought to you by Merac. We provide attractions with the tools and expertise to create world-class digital interactions. Very simply, we're here to rehumanise commerce. Your guest host is Andy Povey. If you like what you hear, you can subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all the usual channels by searching Skip the Queue or visit our website SkiptheQueue.fm. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a five star review, it really helps others find us. And remember to follow us on LinkedIn. Credits: Written by Emily Burrows (Plaster) Edited by Steve Folland Produced by Emily Burrows and Sami Entwistle (Plaster) Download The Visitor Attractions Website Survey Report - https://www.merac.co.uk/download-the-visitor-attractions-survey We have launched our brand-new playbook: ‘The Retail Ready Guide to Going Beyond the Gift Shop’ — your go-to resource for building a successful e-commerce strategy that connects with your audience and drives sustainable growth. Download your FREE copy here

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published May 27, 2026

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In this episode of Skip the Queue, Andy Povey is joined by Bala McAlin to discuss the balance between technology and human interaction in visitor attractions. Drawing on his background in performance and storytelling, Bala shares how Complete Works helps attractions create memorable guest experiences that combine human connection with digital innovation. They discuss the rise of AI, kiosks and automated systems, and how attractions can use technology to enhance experiences without losing the personal touch that guests value most.

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How Visitor Attractions Can Balance Technology and Human Interaction - Bala McAlinn

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