WHY CART FLEET MANAGEMENT IS ESSENTIAL TO FIELD FLOW

There’s a common misconception that an increased use of carts translates to quicker round times. It can, but that’s only the case when the club has the necessary cart fleet management and gps cart tracking software at its disposal.

Even the most efficient and well-trained on-course staff can’t keep track of what each cart on the course is up to, and how their movements are affecting the day’s pace and on-course field flow.

In addition, members who use carts will often expect quicker rounds and any slow play, or perceived slow play, runs a greater risk of dissatisfaction. This is especially true when clubs are looking to attract new, younger members. A survey by the USGA showed that 74% of golfers view pace of play and field flow as crucial to their enjoyment of a round, and time is even more imperative for younger golfers.

When staff members are not aware of where the carts are situated on the course, the task of dealing with hold-ups, and the resultant frustration, becomes increasingly difficult. Tagmarshal’s golf course management technology, and the golf cart GPS tracking system, empower staff to deal with real-time problems before they create the dreaded bottlenecks.

Rather than being reactionary, the club management software will send out smart, pre-emptive alerts, leading to immediate staff responses that prevent on-course issues from worsening.

Their cart module gives staff complete oversight of cart fleet management and tracking, ensuring a well-managed field flow for an exceptional member experience. In addition, it allows both management and staff to be held accountable for achieving operational efficiencies.

Staff receives real-time notifications, assigned to a specific staff member, giving management a degree of staff performance tracking that many clubs currently lack.

The marshals, tasked with improving starter accuracy and maximizing course effectiveness, also receive notifications and alerts, meaning they have the on-the-go information necessary to speed up play and communicate effectively with members.

Mike O’Reilly, PGA Head Professional at Whistling Straits, has seen the benefit of using golf course management software first-hand:

“We have reduced our labor expense on the golf course, increased our round capacity, and realized many operational efficiencies utilizing the program.”

In terms of course safety, managers can use the software remotely, via text messages or alerts, when there is a geofence breach, or if a cart ignores multiple zones. This increased security over the cart fleet minimizes theft and abuse and helps members with peace of mind.

When members leave the course happy, clubs also see an increase in spending with regards food and beverage, as well as the on-site pro shop.

Members now expect each aspect of their round to run smoother, due to advancements in golf course management technology, and courses who ensure their staff are leading the charge continue to reap the rewards.