In a bid to enhance the skiing experience and compete with larger resorts, Black Mountain in New Hampshire is leveraging technology to streamline operations and improve customer service. Under the leadership of Erik Mogensen, the resort is transforming into a tech-savvy destination while maintaining its charm as a family-friendly ski area.
Key Takeaways
- Black Mountain is implementing advanced technology to improve efficiency and customer experience.
- The resort’s new systems include online ticket sales, lesson reservations, and data analytics for operational decisions.
- Mogensen aims to keep skiing accessible and community-oriented, contrasting with larger, luxury-focused resorts.
A New Era for Black Mountain
Black Mountain, the oldest ski area in New Hampshire, has recently undergone significant changes since being acquired by Erik Mogensen. With a passion for skiing and a vision for the future, Mogensen has introduced Entabeni Systems, a consultancy that focuses on integrating technology into ski resort operations.
The resort now features:
- Online Ticket Sales: Customers can purchase lift tickets and book lessons online, reducing wait times and improving convenience.
- Data-Driven Decisions: The resort collects detailed data on customer behavior, allowing for informed decisions on snowmaking, trail openings, and food services.
- Flexibility: Unlike larger resorts, Black Mountain can quickly adapt its operations based on real-time data, enhancing the overall guest experience.
Competing with Larger Resorts
While larger ski resorts like Vail have the advantage of scale and resources, Mogensen believes that technology can level the playing field. He emphasizes that smaller resorts can be more agile, allowing them to respond to customer needs more effectively.
Mogensen stated, "The large operators can do a lot of things at scale that we can’t. They can buy 20 snow cats at a time, but we’re really nimble. We can change the way we groom or open trails quickly."
Community Focus
Mogensen’s vision extends beyond just technology; he aims to foster a sense of community at Black Mountain. He purchased the Indy Pass, which allows skiers to access multiple independent ski areas, including Black Mountain, promoting local skiing experiences.
He believes that skiing should not be a luxury but rather an accessible activity for everyone. Lift ticket prices at Black Mountain range from $59 to $99, significantly lower than some larger resorts, making it an attractive option for families and casual skiers.
Customer Reactions
Skiers at Black Mountain have noticed the positive changes since the resort’s acquisition. Thomas Brennick, a long-time skier, remarked, "I can see the change. They’re making a lot of snow, and it shows."
However, not all feedback has been positive. Some customers, like Sam Shirley, express concerns that increased technology has complicated the skiing experience, making spontaneous trips less feasible due to advanced ticketing requirements.
Conclusion
As Black Mountain embraces technology to enhance its operations and customer experience, it stands as a testament to the potential of small ski resorts to thrive in a competitive landscape. With a focus on community, accessibility, and innovation, Black Mountain is carving out its niche in the skiing world, proving that sometimes, smaller can be better.
Sources
Peyman Khosravani is a seasoned expert in blockchain, digital transformation, and emerging technologies, with a strong focus on innovation in finance, business, and marketing. With a robust background in blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi), Peyman has successfully guided global organizations in refining digital strategies and optimizing data-driven decision-making. His work emphasizes leveraging technology for societal impact, focusing on fairness, justice, and transparency. A passionate advocate for the transformative power of digital tools, Peyman’s expertise spans across helping startups and established businesses navigate digital landscapes, drive growth, and stay ahead of industry trends. His insights into analytics and communication empower companies to effectively connect with customers and harness data to fuel their success in an ever-evolving digital world.
