Optimizing Park Operations: Practical Solutions for Common Challenges
Overview:
In the latest episode of “Live with Sondra”, our CEO Sondra Shannon welcomed Tiffany Blair, Gatemaster’s EVP of Client Success and Support, to discuss the crucial topic of optimizing park operations and practical solutions for common challenges. Their engaging conversation highlighted the significance of effective technology implementation and the positive impact it has on guest experiences. Below are some key insights and notable quotes from the session.
5 Key Insights:
- Accountability is Key to Success.
Tiffany emphasized the importance of holding teams accountable to ensure smooth park operations. While this accountability can sometimes cause friction, it is essential for growth and efficiency. - Understanding Operational Workflow.
Tiffany stressed the significance of fully understanding both guest and employee workflows when transitioning to a new
ticketing system. Awareness of how software integrates into daily operations ensures a smoother transition and better guest experiences. - Mobile Ordering and Automation.
Implementing mobile ordering solutions can enhance the guest experience while overcoming staffing shortages. Tiffany shared a real-life example of a water park that successfully transitioned to mobile ordering, allowing them to expand their food and beverage services without additional staff. - Service During Critical Times.
The importance of providing support during high demand periods, like holidays, was highlighted. Parks often require immediate assistance during these peak times, making it crucial for vendors to be readily available. - The Power of Convenience.
Offering guests the ability to plan and purchase before their visit increases both convenience and revenue. Tiffany shared multiple success stories from parks that have gained significantly by making products more accessible online.
5 Notable Quotes:
- On Accountability and Teamwork:
“We hold each other accountable… in order for us to do our best work, we have to be the best that we can be.” — Sondra Shannon - On the Importance of Workflow Knowledge:
“To know what the workflows look like not only from a guest perspective but also what your team members have to go through is critical.” — Tiffany Blair - On Mobile Ordering and Efficiency:
“Mobile ordering helped fill a gap that they otherwise couldn’t solve… it also allowed them to scale the food and beverage portion of their facility.” — Tiffany Blair - On Self-Service and Guest Satisfaction:
“We know that guest satisfaction goes up when they have the ability to self-serve. They’re spending more time with the sale, considering their options, which often leads to higher revenue.” — Tiffany Blair - On Providing Support During Critical Times:
“I’ll work all weekend if you need me to. This is what legendary service looks like.” — Tiffany Blair
Tiffany’s Approach:
Tiffany believes that the right technology can be a game-changer for parks. She advocates for solutions that reduce friction in operations, like mobile ordering systems and self service kiosks. By automating routine processes, technology allows staff to focus on delivering exceptional hospitality. “The more efficient you are, the better the hospitality is offered and given,” Tiffany explained, highlighting how tech can enhance, rather than replace, human interaction.
Technology & Preferences:
Looking ahead, Tiffany is excited about the future of technology in the attractions industry, particularly in areas like automation, AI-driven personalization, and further integration of mobile systems. Her preference for innovative, scalable solutions reflects her commitment to helping parks stay ahead of industry trends while maintaining exceptional guest experiences.
In summary, Tiffany’s technology preferences focus on creating seamless, efficient, and data-driven operations that enhance guest satisfaction while providing the flexibility for parks to grow and innovate in the future.
Sondra’s Perspective:
Sondra echoed Tiffany’s sentiments about the necessity of active marketing and the importance of building a guest-centric culture in parks. Reinforcing that a great experience must be complemented by effective communication and marketing efforts.
Improving Guest Experience:
Throughout the session, both Sondra and Tiffany discussed how parks can enhance the guest experience through technological advancements, personalized services, and a focus on hospitality. They encouraged industry professionals to consider how they can implement these strategies to create memorable experiences for their visitors.
Creating Memories and Guest-Centric Culture:
Tiffany’s insights emphasized the importance of creating lasting memories for guests, which goes beyond just selling tickets. The focus should be on fostering a guest-centric culture that prioritizes the visitor experience.
Gatemaster’s Guests’ Appreciation and Value:
The session also highlighted the value of Gatemaster’s solutions in addressing common challenges faced by parks. The personalized support and innovative technology offered by Gatemaster have proven to make a significant difference in optimizing park operations.
Connecting with the Speakers:
This episode of Live with Sondra was packed with valuable insights for park operators and industry professionals. For more expert advice and innovative solutions, don’t miss the full video!
As Gatemaster Technology continues to push the boundaries of innovation, leaders like Tiffany remind us that understanding our audience and adapting to their needs is key to thriving in an ever-changing market. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking conversations on Live with Sondra!