Managing high demand for squash courts at busy times

27 Jan 2017

Many clubs are realising that they need to bring people inside their facilities at times which are normally not popular. There are various methods that can be used to either spread court usage demand more evenly or encourage users’ incentives to play in quieter periods at certain days and times.

Membership incentives

Paying an annual membership fee allows the user to gain use of the facility at most times.

Specific day or times of day incentives

This approach is now becoming more widespread. Membership options may allow for set times of day, certain days of the week or months of the year. For example, weekend memberships to only have access to the courts on Saturdays and Sundays.

Peak-time premiums

The intention is to charge a premium price for the use of the facilities at peak periods - where demand exceeds the number of courts available. For example, courts may be booked during peak hours but they cost 10% more than regular times.

Off-peak incentives

The aim is to reduce the problem of over-demand at popular times and offer incentives (often financial savings) to play at quieter times. For example, off-peak members pay 10% less but cannot use the courts at peak-times.

Partitioning demand

The use of courts can be allocated according to purpose and to satisfy all types of member. For example, one court is always available for coaching programmes, one court is always for member use and two courts are blocked out for competition purposes.

Reservation system

Taking bookings pre-fills the courts and helps forecast future availability. It also reduces waiting time and queues. Learn more about the iSquash Online Booking, Access and Pay2Play features here.