“The future is now!” Have you heard that somewhere before? Of course you have, and it has never been more appropriate in our industry than it is today.

Debit card systems are experiencing growth at an exponential rate and owners and operators are realising the many benefits and savings associated with card systems and the importance of acting quickly to secure their profits and help manage their business.

Making the decision to invest in a completely new way of providing fun to your guests can be a daunting experience, mostly because of the belief that card systems are expensive and the feeling that customers won’t adapt to a new way of doing things. However, card systems have become more affordable over the past three years.

Many companies offer systems that “do the basics” and provide most of the benefits without all the bells and whistles. You will also be amazed at just how quickly your guests will pick up and embrace a card system. Of course, there will be an educational process, but the one-on-one interaction you provide when assisting people with questions is beneficial to your operation and invaluable to you revenue earning potential. Guests are unlikely to get upset when offered a way to handle their funds and tickets more efficiently.

The savings provided by the use of a debit card system are well documented and many facilities have seen their cash float increase by more than 10 per cent when converting from coins. More dramatic ticket float increases of 15 to 20 per cent have been experienced by companies that have decided to employ e-tickets instead of using paper. But it is important to do your homework…

When it comes to selecting a debit card vendor, spend plenty of time and effort choosing a company that meets your needs. They all have pros and cons and it is critical to sort through them and discover what is important to you. Most systems have so many features added to enable management of a wide range of applications, that only about 50 per cent are used regularly in each specific centre.

Speaking with a current system owner will not only offer insight into any challenges you might face, but will also create a network to rely on when questions arise after the purchase. The amusement industry as a whole has a history of working together to achieve collective goals, so ask your neighbour! You just might find a new friend and colleague.

Jason Mitchell recently joined Intercard after 25 years in the amusement and hospitality industry. He has spent the last 11 years as corporate games manager at a large FEC chain in Texas. His experience includes opening multiple units while developing many of the policies and procedures associated with bowling, amusements, redemption, laser tag and other operations.