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It does not do any good, however, to analyze anything unless comparisons are utilized. If you are taking the time to compare each year, make sure you are making adjustments for next year. A good way to force you into analyzing each year is to be on a schedule to present to your board, commissions or councils with an annual report. These owners will usually want to see comparisons from year to year; this also gives someone else's perspective on your operations. Some important notes when analyzing any portion of your facility: make sure you are not comparing apples to oranges. For example, when analyzing your utility bills for the year make sure you are not comparing the total amount paid but more KW used, demand readings and BTUs your equipment has consumed. Also when comparing your merchant services per year, verify your rates first — that will give you more insight on whether your rates increase was due to your merchant provider or to how your staff was receiving credit cards. Try to keep this analysis to your operations only, rather than comparing with other facilities that are of comparable size. Everyone has had their own success and issues throughout the year; this should not be a factor in the outcome of your facility. After completing your annual report and analysis, you will end up with important data to assist with daily, weekly and monthly trends. These small studies should not replace your master planning schedule, however — they should assist with your master plan! ★ Mark Vaughan is the owner of Arena Concepts and the manager of the Eagan Civic Arena in Eagan, MN. If you need assistance with your canalization and operations please contact Mark at mvaughan@arenaconcepts.com or 651-331-8939. 44 R INK MAGAZ INE May/June 2007 Discuss with your staff which equipment to upgrade. Planning For NEXT SEASON JOSH HOLMBERG

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