Reducing losses

Although a software solution will not uncover new ways for the marina to generate income, it does have the ability to find lost income. For example, software installations have uncovered countless examples of customers not being billed correctly, and, in some cases, not at all. A good solution will ensure that all customers are charged correctly, billed on time, and done so in an efficient manner.

Having just celebrated one of the busiest boating days of the year, July 4th, most marinas were probably at full capacity during the holiday weekend. But amidst all the chaos and activity of the weekend, some, if not many, marinas also missed some golden opportunities to provide dockage. A good software solution would allow staff, in an efficient manner, to find that last space when the marina was near capacity, thereby increasing revenue by maximizing the marina’s footprint and fully charging for all spaces leased.

Expectations

Choosing the best marina software is just one part of “the software solution.” The next step is implementation. Marinas should expect to spend some time implementing the solution.

The first three months after purchasing a new software solution are the most critical period in the implementation and support process. With any new system, there are certain levels of change that should be expected, but it is important to select a system that will adapt to the way the marina conducts business.

It is important that all staff, especially the information technology personnel, be onboard with the implementation process. There is a learning curve with any change and new technology can be extremely difficult to use if there is not a willingness to learn.

After spending money on the purchase and taking time to implement the software solution, many marinas are now ready to fulfill the highest expectation a marina can have of a new software solution: return on the investment. Time and money are not well spent if the business does not realize an adequate return on the investment.

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