21 reasons to use pitch management system
We are delighted to see that there is a growing awareness of the technological tools available for groundsmen, grounds keepers and turf managers. The need for systems or apps to improve playing surfaces, work effectiveness and quality of sports pitches are growing in the turf industry every year.
We have observed this technological trend in recent years. There are many new devices to collect information from the pitch, about the work done or the quality of the surface. We took a closer look at why it pays to use pitch management systems like Gras.Pro
1.
Pitch management systems are created by groundsmen or industry experts
Some of the online systems and apps are created by industry experts who know the same challenges and goals as you. Our management tool was developed by groundsmen and tested by teams at the Football Association’s St George’s Park to simplify turf maintenance, so it focuses on the quality of the turf.
2.
Wide scope of data available in online pitch maintenance tool helps make better decisions
Online tools can collect data from a variety of sources, including manual operations, some equipment and, for example, turf test results. The more data that can be collected, the easier and more informed the decision-making process will be.
3.
Best sports clubs and organisations already use pitch management systems
If the best sports clubs or associations use some tools, it is obvious that everyone else will too. Their case studies and evaluations will help you see the value of the technology, but also help you choose the best one for yourself.
FIFA, for example, uses GrasPro to collect data on hundreds of pitches around the world to ensure optimal performance at tournaments.
4.
Software gives more than apps
Apps are very popular, but they are designed to collect information for simple tasks. Using an advanced web-based platform for data processing and in-depth analysis that can be accessed from any device is becoming increasingly popular.
5.
Easy and quick to learn and use daily, takes only a few minutes to add information
Most online systems or apps are easy to use and usually require no training. Video tutorials or support materials can be easily accessed. It takes a few minutes daily to add information about a working day.
6.
Online systems are available on any device – smartphone, tablet, laptop
Software, like ours, is adaptable to laptop, tablet or smartphone, so you can use it whenever and wherever you want.
7.
All data is in one place – in online pitch management system
Gathering information from a variety of sources usually notes on paper, spreadsheets, various test and pitch equipment and photos from your mobile phone is time-consuming. The information you get is neither ordered nor chronological, so you cannot make the best use of it. Adding an activity to software takes a few minutes every day, as a result, you get organised and visually presented information.
8.
Easy access to up-to-date information in online system
Creating reports for management is time-consuming and usually done after hours. With online tools, your managers have easy access to up-to-date data when they need it.
9.
Improved decision-making process for the extended team
Organised and visually presented data facilitates the decision-making process for all stakeholders who have access to the same information. Any problems or warnings can be quickly identified.
10.
Better resources allocation and an evidence for further needs negotiations
Some systems give you an overview of the utilisation of work and equipment so that you can see where you need to use more resources. This makes it easier to plan and discuss future needs with management.
11.
Improved team management
Once you have set a maintenance plan for the pitch, you can track its execution in the online system. This ensures that none of your team members are overloaded with work while others have free time.
12.
Work improvement, better results
You operate in a tight knit team with a variety of different skill sets, with each member of the team providing a key aspect to your maintenance procedure. You can help your team members improve their work by reviewing the details of their work and discussing opportunities for improvement.
13.
Improved planning based on various factors
If you have detailed weather forecasts, maintenance schedules and pitch usage at hand, you can fine-tune your maintenance programme.
14.
Sustainable (Eco) turf care and cost reduction
Professionals working with data can improve the condition of playing surfaces and reduce spending on water, electricity and fertiliser while reducing their club’s carbon footprint. Accurate use of materials and planning of turf maintenance will help you save money.
15.
Weather feature it’s always there
When the weather function is enhanced, you no longer need to carry around a weather station or search for weather information. With a built-in weather reporting system with a 15-day forecast that includes temperature, wind direction, precipitation and more, you can work smarter, especially when fertilising, spraying or using lights.
16.
Automatic visual reports and calculations
In the online system, you can view visual statistical reports, including usage, NPK calculations, water usage and more. No more excel spreadsheets or manual calculations. Unless you like your Excel files, then you can download any data from Gras.Pro
17.
Easy problem solving
Without data, it is difficult to determine what caused the issue and how to avoid it in the future. By monitoring the surface and adding comments, photos and some warnings so your colleagues know what to look for, you can prevent most turf problems.
18.
Improves pitch quality
Monitoring the pitch, its response to maintenance, test results and condition will help you to improve quality.
19.
Increase pitch usage to let more game to be played
If you are able to compare the condition of different surfaces and know how your turf performs under certain conditions and usage, you can use it more often.
20.
Avoidance of pitch or training cancellations
An unplayable pitch affects the club’s revenue. With an online turf management system, you can identify problems before they occur and prevent them.
21.
Safer surface for players
Poor pitch condition increases the number of injuries. So knowing the condition of your pitch and informing coaches about it to plan usage increases player safety.
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