Going to Miller Park and not watching the game

In our business, whenever you go to another venue you tend to observe how "they" do things. This past week, Miller Park was the venue as I went to a Brewers game. I'm certainly a Brewers and baseball fan and enjoy watching the games. However, upon entering the Miller Park parking lot I found myself observing and evaluating all aspects of the operation. My first observation was the car parkers didn't know where to send us with our parking pass. We were sent around the entire parking lot and circled back to where we started before we were pointed in the right direction.

Once we got in, we were met by a friendly guest services lady otherwise known as an usher. She asked us if we knew where we were going and wished us a good time. A short time later I walked past her and joked she should turn the air conditioning on (it was 88 at game time and crazy humid with no air movement at all inside the park). For the rest of the evening when I made eye contact she joked with me and asked if I found the air yet. I was impressed with her customer service and her smile and instantly hoped that our guest staff at the Resch is just as friendly.

During the game, I watched with interest as the Brewers ran various promotions - something we all do in the business to improve the fan's experience. I even took it so far to look at every business/sponsor that had signs at Miller Park. I found it interesting that three different banks were advertised. Obviously no exclusivity there. Also two different airlines. And UW-Milwaukee has been a constant sponsor at Miller Park. I always thought it was curious a state school was spending money to market themselves at a baseball stadium, but they need to attract students as well. I'm always impressed with that big wrap around digital color sign and how cool it would be to have one in the Resch.

I also look closely at the prices at the concession stands for comparison. You know it will be expensive and need to understand all venues charge higher prices for food and beverage because it is a vital source of income. Many times what you pay to see the game or event has little to do with the bottom line of the venue.

So as I gazed around the venue and watched the guest services staff, the police officers, the signs and the racing sausages, I still managed to see Casey McGehee hit a two run shot and Rickie Weeks a solo home run. Yeah, pitcher Chris Narveson started out slowly for the Crew, but settled down to keep the Twins in check and the bullpen was solid the rest of the way. Who says you can't keep track of the game while your mind wonders to other places?