It’s hard to believe that this issue marks two decades of collecting and analyzing data to create the State of the Industry report. We launched the initial Industry Report survey in 2007, less than six months after I’d joined the team here at Recreation Management, and it’s been a part of the annual rhythm ever since.
Because it’s the report’s 20th anniversary, I decided to dive a little deeper into the data this year, and you’ll see that reflected throughout, as I pulled in 20 years’ worth of reports to examine how revenues, costs, plans and more have changed since 2007.
Some changes have been substantial indeed. The Great Recession of the late aughts and the coronavirus pandemic had obvious impacts, but there have been other shifts as well. In the wake of the pandemic, more respondents are likely to report increasing revenues, median spending begins to increase at a faster pace, and many respondents are more likely to have construction plans, though those plans tend to be more modest. As economic challenges like the recession or recent inflationary pressures impact facilities, respondents adjust by looking for ways to reduce costs, increase revenues and partner with others to get the job done.
At the same time, a lot has remained relatively constant. When it comes to planning, splash play, playgrounds, synthetic turf, park shelters, outdoor fitness, trails, park restrooms, dog parks, fitness facilities and disc golf have dominated. Budget constraints, equipment and facility maintenance, and staffing have been a constant challenge. Respondents have also been consistently content—the number who say that they are satisfied in their current jobs has never been less than an overwhelming majority.
It’s a lot to unpack. If you want to get even more insights into the data, I hope you’ll join us on June 18 at 3 p.m. Eastern, when I’ll be chatting with Justin Caron of Aquatic Design Group and Scott Crawford of RDG Planning & Design about some of the trends in the data, with ideas for how you can address some of the common challenges and goals we talk about here.
Change is the only thing that’s permanent, or so Heraclitus said. So turn the page and dig in. See what’s changed, what’s not, and then let’s talk about how to adapt.
With gratitude to those who always respond,
Emily Tipping
Editorial Director,
Recreation Management
[email protected]
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