Being the coordinator of team events and celebrations is not always an easy task at Candorem. As individuals, we’re all about as opposite as a group could get. While I truly think that our different views, experiences, and opinions are what make us an agile team, it also makes planning activities to do together difficult.
However, this month we found a fail-safe activity that everyone on our team could support, which of course, was bonding over food. But this time, with a twist!
Normally, lunchtime at Candorem isn’t exactly worthy of a blog post, but the day of our end-of-the-month team party was very special, particularly to me. While there are a few obvious differences that set me apart from the rest of the team, the one that I’m most known for is my dietary choices.
Yep, you guessed it- I’m the vegan.
So when I found out that Burger King would be adding the plant-based Impossible Burger to their menu, I immediately knew that a blind tasting experiment was in order. Not only did this give me the opportunity to share a piece of my world with the team, but it also provided a creative way to get in touch with senses that we don’t regularly connect with in a mindful way.
The Great Whopper Taste Test of 2019 was an exploration of taste, texture, smell, and instinct.
After arriving back to the office with our order, I carefully plated one Impossible Whopper and one beef Whopper for each of the participants. Armed with condiments, napkins and ice cold fountain drinks, the team set out to determine which ‘which was which.
While Josh began the experiment with a visual scan (as any seasoned designer would), Kyle went straight for the smell test.
After making mental notes, the participants used a tactic that I didn’t expect. Instead of touching or tasting the burgers next, they searched for clues that I might have left. Did I tilt the bun on the Impossible burger to remind myself which burger was which? Or, might I have served the beef burger on a marked plate? It’s so fitting of a team of UX experts to be analyzing the tiny details, isn’t it? Although I didn’t leave any clues, I will admit that I found this equal parts amusing and impressive.
Finally, after realizing that there would be no hints from me, it was time to taste. During this phase of the experiment, both participants reported that there was no apparent difference in either taste or texture. Both burgers were good and both burgers were devoured. In the end, both Josh and Kyle were able to correctly identify each sandwich but it wasn’t as easy as they each expected it to be (a win for me, I think).
What I most enjoyed about this experience was that it took us out of our routines and into a space of curiosity and exploration.
Getting away from our desks to connect with each other and try new things is an important part of our growth as a team that ultimately manifests in the work we do together. Of course, there’s also the obvious benefit of a company-funded lunch and time spent playing Nintendo Switch.
Who would say no to Burger King and Video Games? Certainly not Candorem.
*Note from the team: Do not attempt to eat the Impossible Whopper cold. It is a mistake and you will regret it. Only eat while hot.
