“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. The recent IAAPA trade show and expo in Orlando provided a great example of that fact as some debit card system providers experienced attendance increases of more than 100 per cent over the previous year. Owners and operators are realising the many benefits and savings associated with card systems and recognise 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. Technology is still available to make a system seem like the NORAD bunker in War Games, but if you have not priced one lately, you should make a call. You might be pleasantly surprised. 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 your revenue earning potential. Guests are unlikely to get upset when offered a way to handle their funds and tickets more efficiently.

This column can be read in full in the January 2012 issue of InterGame.