Don Rea Jr., VP, PGA of America on The Tech Caddie podcast The Tech Caddie

    • Technology

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Don Rea, Vice President of the PGA of America and owner of Augusta Ranch Golf Club, discusses his background in the golf industry and the technology he uses to run his golf course. He shares insights on the early days of GolfNow and the IMuS operating system. Don also talks about his experience as an umpire and the importance of analyzing business performance. He emphasizes the need for tracking customers and implementing strong loyalty programs. Additionally, he discusses the role of social media and the potential of on-course tracking technology. The conversation covers various topics related to managing credit card business, using technology for top tracer, the PGA of America's relationship with technology, the NGCOA's involvement in technology, the importance of associations in the golf industry, and challenges in onboarding employees to use technology.

Takeaways

The early days of GolfNow and the IMuS operating system were instrumental in shaping the golf industry and understanding the impact of technology on owner operators.
Analyzing business performance through metrics such as ADR, rep par, utilization, and occupancy is crucial for golf course owners and operators.
Tracking customers and implementing strong loyalty programs can help build relationships and increase customer engagement.
Social media plays a significant role in engaging customers and promoting golf courses, and it is important to tailor social media campaigns to specific target audiences.
On-course tracking technology, such as GPS systems, can enhance the on-course experience and provide valuable data for improving pace of play and customer engagement. Using user-friendly technology like Square for credit card transactions can make it easier for customers and staff to utilize.
The PGA of America has an Innovation Fund that invests in companies with impact on its members, the golf industry, and the world.
The NGCOA focuses on industry threats and advocates for golf course owners through legislative advocacy and issue-based initiatives.
Associations play a crucial role in the golf industry by providing resources, education, and networking opportunities for members.
Ongoing training and product knowledge tests are essential for employees to effectively use technology and stay updated on software updates and features.

Don Rea, Vice President of the PGA of America and owner of Augusta Ranch Golf Club, discusses his background in the golf industry and the technology he uses to run his golf course. He shares insights on the early days of GolfNow and the IMuS operating system. Don also talks about his experience as an umpire and the importance of analyzing business performance. He emphasizes the need for tracking customers and implementing strong loyalty programs. Additionally, he discusses the role of social media and the potential of on-course tracking technology. The conversation covers various topics related to managing credit card business, using technology for top tracer, the PGA of America's relationship with technology, the NGCOA's involvement in technology, the importance of associations in the golf industry, and challenges in onboarding employees to use technology.

Takeaways

The early days of GolfNow and the IMuS operating system were instrumental in shaping the golf industry and understanding the impact of technology on owner operators.
Analyzing business performance through metrics such as ADR, rep par, utilization, and occupancy is crucial for golf course owners and operators.
Tracking customers and implementing strong loyalty programs can help build relationships and increase customer engagement.
Social media plays a significant role in engaging customers and promoting golf courses, and it is important to tailor social media campaigns to specific target audiences.
On-course tracking technology, such as GPS systems, can enhance the on-course experience and provide valuable data for improving pace of play and customer engagement. Using user-friendly technology like Square for credit card transactions can make it easier for customers and staff to utilize.
The PGA of America has an Innovation Fund that invests in companies with impact on its members, the golf industry, and the world.
The NGCOA focuses on industry threats and advocates for golf course owners through legislative advocacy and issue-based initiatives.
Associations play a crucial role in the golf industry by providing resources, education, and networking opportunities for members.
Ongoing training and product knowledge tests are essential for employees to effectively use technology and stay updated on software updates and features.

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