Count On It Method™

The four stages of ownership are planning, acquisition, implementation and utilization. This will result in a successful execution of your turf management plan, year after year.

Planning starts with a conversation focusing on the future and the identification of specific operational objectives. Budgets, labor requirements, turf conditions, water availability, utility and fuel costs, workforce expertise, and current operational issues are all part of this initial stage. It includes developing the present and future direction of the facility, including the goals and objectives to be achieved.

The benefits of the planning stage include:

• Clear direction for management and employees
• Selecting the right turf maintenance equipment for the right jobs
• Improved return on investment
• Identification of underutilized/ underperforming assets that can be redeployed or disposed of.

Acquisition

Acquisition is the stage where the actual procurement of products is made.  It starts with developing a strategy based on a number of factors: seasonal needs, implementation plans, cash flow and production schedules.

Once the strategy is established, purchase options are explored. Lease options, bank financing and rental options are all explored. The benefits of approaching the acquisition stage strategically include:

• Conservation of working capital
• Assurance that seasonal needs are not overlooked
• Improved cash flow
• Identification of gaps allowing for contingency plans

Implementation

This is the stage where new assets are delivered and deployed. It starts with establishing dates for delivery and user training sessions. Prior to delivery, an analysis of work routines is done and time saving strategies are designed in order to get maximum benefit from the new products. This is a critical step in fully realizing the value of your investment in maintenance assets.

The benefits of the implementation phase include:

• Improved operational efficiency
• Improved user satisfaction
• Increased safety
• Reduced labor costs
• Increased asset utilization

Utilization

Utilization is the stage where maintenance assets are fully deployed and maintained over their expected life. Suggested maintenance routines are put in place for each critical asset. Service and maintenance agreement plans are evaluated for feasibility. Inspection routines are established.

Replacement programs are selected for key wear items. Ongoing training opportunities are evaluated for implementation. This phase is critical to achieving the peace of mind that is so hard to find in the turf management profession.

The benefits of the utilization phase include:

• Prevention of breakdowns rather than dealing with surprises
• Decreased operational expenses
• Reduced labor costs
• Increased user satisfaction
• Increased turf quality