The so-called first come, first served principle is about the distribution of resources. But the term is also used colloquially.
This is what lies behind the first come, first served principle: definition and examples
The first come, first served principle describes a distribution process for (limited) resources such as goods or funding. The characteristic feature of the animal that gives it its name is the program – it's all about speed.
- The saying: “First come, first served” sums up the basic idea of the first come, first served procedure. This is why the first come, first served principle is also called the priority principle in legal jargon.
- The first come, first served basis is used when it comes to allocating limited resources. The resources are distributed without taking into account urgency or need.
- So it's all about who registers the need first. The resources are then distributed in the chronological order in which the need is registered. The resource is then distributed until the resource is exhausted.
- A clear example of the first come, first served principle is the sale of tickets for concerts, theater performances, and other events. Who gets a ticket (a limited resource) is decided solely by who is first in line (who declares a need).
- The first come, first served method allows for a number of manipulation options. For example, bots can be used in online sales to increase the chances of getting a concert ticket. Or someone who is quick enough can buy a large number of tickets and then sell them on the black market at a higher price.