New Technology for the Health Club Industry
National Fitness Trade Journal
Few industries have enjoyed as many new releases of technology that the Health Club Industry has experienced over the last few years. Just about everything that is performed in a health club today can be automated with the help of new technology. With the right approach, IT (information technology) can do more than just maintain your business, it can enable it to thrive and grow. For many fitness centers and small businesses, computer systems are a cost of doing business. However, smart operators learn to use computers and software programs to create competitive advantages, increase efficiency, and grow their business.
The most cost effective way to take advantage of the latest advancements is to pursue outsourcing. Outsourcing can really be defined as growth-sourcing because outsourcing really is a growth enabler for smaller companies. Many smaller and medium-sized companies are dealing with limited resources and want to optimize and gain scalability.
Small business requires fast movement and decision making to be competitive. Computer automation will assist you in making calculated choices and can help in risk assessments as you make changes. If you still do your billing and processing services in-house you may want to examine your options. Processing and Financial service companies are up-to-date on the latest banking and payment processing technology. They understand the change in consumer habits, payment activity and collection laws and how it relates to your business. They also can adapt much quicker in the changing environment. This is extremely important to your bottom line and the ability to keep your cash flow steady. These companies are far cheaper and superior to anything that could be developed in-house. Software designed specifically for health clubs is generally superior to applications developed in-house, primarily because of economies of scale. If you do decide to develop your own solution, make sure you have a large budget to design, test and make changes on an ongoing basis. Trying to keep up to date on the technical processing requirements, consumer habits, laws, collection activity and the ever changing horizon is a full time job in itself.
Let’s examine some of the new technologies that are available in the Health Club Industry.
One of the new trends in Health Clubs is 24/7 access to your club. This definition really is the ability to have a member attend your club whenever they desire. This could be at 2:00 in the morning or 10:00 at night. There are a few very popular chains that started this convenience over the past few years. Most small businesses cannot justify the financial expense of maintaining a facility 24 hours a day and having an employee present during off hours.
Technology can create the ability to make this idea a reality. By utilizing a proximity card reader and a lock on the entrance the member can swipe their card at the entry point and gain access. The system can interface with a database to verify the member is in good standing and has an active membership before allowing entry to your health club. Other system checks are performed such as attendance, expiration date (if any) renewal information, messages etc.
The technology required to allow a member to gain access to your club is complicated and expensive to design and maintain. This is just one example where outsourcing is really your best option. The outsourcing partner has already reviewed the requirements, researched the development, invested in the equipment, programmed the necessary information to make it all work and have tested the products for reliability. They have also made partnerships with the vendors that supply the components and installation so the end product is delivered, set up, tested and is in working order ready for use. A 24-hour security access system will also need to be supported to insure its continued reliability.
Another product that relies on technology is a fingerprint scanner. This works similar to an entry system and interfaces with a database. When a member places their finger on the scanner, the database (computer) verifies that the member is in good standing and allows entry. This technology can also interface with a turnstile for larger clubs.
Electronic signature pad is also available. The signature pad interfaces with a membership agreement that resides on your computer. After the sale is completed the member’s signature is captured and stored into the database for future retrieval. This eliminates the need to store and file a hard copy of the membership agreement.
Most health club software providers have a full menu of features and programs available for you to choose from. These services usually include a wide range of programs designed to manage every aspect of your club. From payment processing, member and contract management to marketing and retention programs; your health club software provider can be an important extension of your club.
Club management software can create a comprehensive network within your club to help you grow and stay profitable. Financial reports provide important financial statistical information so you can make calculated decisions for your future. Front desk check-in systems manage your entry and record attendance and other important information on your members.
Club management software has come a long way in terms of the technology being utilized by the providers and the ability to serve these products to you over the internet. This is a powerful blend of products designed to get the maximum financial benefit for you and your memberships.
Remember, the time and research into these products is well worth your time. The correct health club software products can eliminate the need for one or more full time employees and provide you with the flexibility you need to manage your club efficiently. Think of the alternatives of doing all of the services the health club software provider handles for one price.
Research is the key to finding the "right fit" for you club. Most products can be found and viewed over the internet and in many cases you can request a demo product to test drive the actual product. Once you have decided on the club management software program that best fits your operation, speak to the representatives and make sure the service provider will be a good match for your club. Ask if they will be there for questions and technical support. This is very important with any software product. Club management softwarefor fitness centers is only as good as the support behind it. Verify the support hours and make sure the technical people are available when you call. If you have a software question or problem, getting voice mail is not going to be of much assistance.
Technology is the key that opens the door to your future. Take advantage of the products available in the marketplace and transform your club into an efficient operating machine. Members will thank you and you will be more satisfied managing your success!
For more information on software and payment services please contact:
John Chalk, President of eFit Financial
Toll Free: 877-772-3348
or visit www.efitfinancial.com.