Frugal Innovation: Lessons from toilet feedback device!

On a trip to Siem Reap some time ago, I noticed an interesting design of device used to capture user feedback in airport public toilet which was in stark contrast to what I am used to seeing at Changi Airport.

At Changi, the feedback device is a sleek, tablet-based system that asks users to rate their experience on a 5-point scale. While it looks modern and sophisticated, it only aggregates feedback for the supervisor. The supervisor must still visit the toilet to understand the reason for a poor rating.

At Siem Reap, the device is simpler—a panel with five physical buttons. Each button corresponds to a specific issue: toilet paper, soap, cleanliness, or smell. It immediately notifies the supervisor of the exact problem. It's a solution that's not only cost-effective but also actionable.

This is frugal innovation in action—not merely cutting costs but achieving better outcomes with fewer resources. It’s a reminder that simplicity often drives effectiveness.

Frugality and Modern Society

In today’s world, where many of us have access to abundance, the mindset of frugality is becoming harder to instill. As societies prosper, the focus shifts from “what works best” to “what looks best.” But a frugal mindset is about sustainable resource use—a principle that’s as relevant for designing feedback systems as it is for how we raise our children.

The question is: how do we teach this mindset to the next generation?

Instilling a Frugal Mindset in Children

Raising resourceful children starts with fostering awareness and creativity. Here are some practical approaches:

DIY and Upcycling Engage children in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects and upcycling activities. It is fun to use old items into something new and useful. This fosters creativity and resourcefulness.

Encourage Thriftiness Turn shopping trips into learning experiences. Teach them to compare prices. Encourage children to think critically about purchases. Ask questions like, "Do you really need this?" or "Is there a more affordable option?" Help them understand the difference between needs and wants.

Celebrate Simplicity Sometimes, the best experiences are the simplest. Organize activities like nature walks, home cooking, or even building toys together to demonstrate that joy doesn’t always come with a price tag.

A Closing Thought

The device at Siem Reap Airport is a powerful metaphor. It reminds us that frugality isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing more with less. As we strive for progress, let’s not forget the elegance of simplicity and the value of resourcefulness.

Whether it’s in our innovations or in how we nurture the next generation, frugality is a mindset that serves us well in any context.

What are your thoughts? How do you practice or teach resourcefulness? Let’s discuss in the comments below.