By Katherine Beaty
During a recent stay at a hotel in Indianapolis, I encountered a parking system featuring state-of-the-art parking access and revenue control systems equipment with impressive license plate recognition and pay-by-cell technology integration. The process seemed modern and efficient: Enter the garage, call a number, and receive a link to make payment on my phone.
But the experience quickly took a turn. Poor cell service and low Wi-Fi signal strength made it impossible to complete the payment. I had to wait until I was checked into the hotel and connected to better Wi-Fi to finalize the transaction, leaving me wondering: Would my payment be recognized when I exited? Would I be stuck at the gate? Luckily, I exited without issue, but the situation raised concerns about the bigger picture.
As an industry, we pour so much effort into researching and implementing the latest technologies to create exceptional customer experiences. But how often do we stop to ask whether the infrastructure can support the technology? Too often, when systems fail, the blame falls on the technology provider. Yet the real issue is frequently the infrastructure required to ensure the technology performs as intended.
The critical role of infrastructure
Technology in parking has brought convenience, efficiency, and enhanced customer satisfaction. But even the most cutting-edge systems can stumble if we neglect foundational infrastructure challenges like network reliability or structural hurdles. Success isn’t just about the technology; it’s about creating an environment where it can thrive.
Dense materials like concrete and steel, commonly used in parking structures, can significantly weaken wireless signals. Additionally, poorly placed cameras, access points, or kiosks can lead to blind spots or inefficient system performance. Overlooked infrastructure issues often result in unexpected downtime, frustrated customers, and costly maintenance to fix problems that could have been avoided with better planning.
A casino that didn’t gamble on technology
One example that stands out is a luxury casino project in Las Vegas. When they opened, they made one thing clear: They weren’t going to gamble on guest experiences. They understood that their cutting-edge valet and parking systems would only work as well as the infrastructure supporting them.
From day one, they invested in signal boosters to eliminate dead zones in their parking structures, hardwired key systems to avoid network hiccups, and carefully planned the placement of cameras and access points. Their SMS-based valet system operated seamlessly from launch, setting a new standard for reliability.
What struck me most was their focus on guest satisfaction. They didn’t just want their technology to work: They wanted it to work perfectly, every time. That level of planning shows how infrastructure investments can make or break customer experiences.
How to ensure success
If you’re rolling out new technology in a parking facility, here are strategies to ensure success:
- Install signal boosters and repeaters to strengthen connectivity in large or complex structures.
- Implement hardwired network solutions using Ethernet or fiber-optic cabling to avoid wireless dependency.
- Plan strategic technology placement to maximize device effectiveness and minimize interference.
- Design hybrid system approaches that combine wireless technologies with manual or app-based backups.
- Conduct thorough testing under real-world conditions before launch to uncover potential weak points.
- Build scalable infrastructure with future upgrades in mind to avoid costly overhauls.
Collaboration is key
The casino project succeeded through collaboration. They brought together operators, tech providers, and facility designers to tackle potential problems early. Regular planning meetings and pilot programs ensured that all stakeholders were aligned, reducing the likelihood of unexpected issues. This team approach ensured their systems didn’t just meet expectations — they exceeded them.
Building a resilient future
The parking industry is at an exciting crossroads, where cutting-edge technology intersects with decades of operational experience. But to make the most of these tools, we must lay the right foundation. By investing in robust network infrastructure, strategic device placement, and comprehensive testing protocols, we can deliver the seamless, reliable experiences our customers expect — and deserve.
Katherine Beaty is the CEO and president of Beaty Solutions. She can be reached at [email protected].
