Wednesday, September 14, 2005

Singapore Efficiency

There is a reason as to why Singapore is well known for its efficiency. Many may argue that because of its small size, there is wider span of control for the government. Infrastructures can be built easily within weeks of planning. Public trasport established so well commuters can go to almost any part of Singapore without owning private transport. However, I discovered that these are not the only reason why Singapore is so efficient.

The English did invent the English Language, but they cannot use it effectively when communicating their intentions. Just compare these few common phrases that S'poreans and Britons use to say the same thing:

When all has been sold out...
Britons: I'm sorry, Sir, but we don't seem to have the sweater you want in your size, but if you give me a moment, I can call the other outlets for you.
S'poreans: No Stock!

When someone is in the way...
Britons: Excuse me, I'd like to get by. Would you please make way?
Singaporeans: Lai, siam! or Siam ji bi! or S'kius!(excuse)

When entertaining...
Britons: Please make yourself right at home.
Singaporeans: Don't shy, leh!

When declining an offer...
Britons: I'd prefer no to do that, if you don't mind.
Singaporeans: Dowan, lah. (don't want)

When disagreeing on a topic of discussion...
Britons: Err. Tom, I have to stop you there. I understand where you're coming from, but I really have to disagree with what you said.
Singaporeans: Le siow, ah? (are you crazy?)

As you would have noticed by now, the Britons will take about 2 seconds more to communicate something as compared to S'porean. Furthermore, those who fully understand the above few examples will agree with me that wat S'poreans use has got more 'meaning' to it - the receiver understand the FULL meaning of what the sender is trying to communicate.

Subway Signs

This is the sign in Melbourne subways. It's to prevent people from not paying their fares as it is possible to escape fare in Melbourne public transport. You think this is funny?


Below shows a sign in Japan subways. Are you able to make out each one stands for?
Starting from the left:

  1. Person with injured arm
  2. Person holding a child
  3. Pregnant woman
  4. Person with injured leg
How many did you guessed correctly?

Apple = The Latest Human Manipulator in the 21st century
First they made everything white. Then they differentiate their advertisements from other companies. The time lag between mini iPod and iPod Shuffle is so short. then the time lag between shuffle and iPodNano is even shorter. They made so much by charging their products so high. But still. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i'm thinking of getting one in future. heh!

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