Redundancy and incentives in everyday logistics

Alex Clarke recalls learning practical logistics while running GCSE and A-level revision centers when food failed to arrive or tutors were delayed. He asks tutors to aim for the train before the one needed to arrive on time. That leaves a later service available if the first is delayed or cancelled, often requiring an arrival only ten or fifteen minutes earlier. He also makes sure tutors receive the expense forms needed to recover their travel costs. The spare time and reimbursement work together: the first absorbs disruption, while the second encourages people to follow the plan. Having tutors present avoids improvised cover by someone less able to teach their subject.