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The smart clubhouse: Blending data, automation and human-centered design

The smart clubhouse: Blending data, automation and human-centered design

Behind today’s most memorable member experiences is a powerful blend of data, automation and human-centered design.

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The modern clubhouse is undergoing a quiet but profound transformation.

Once defined by beautiful architecture, dining rooms, lounges and locker rooms, today’s clubhouses are becoming connected ecosystems where technology, data and design converge to elevate both member engagement and operational performance.

From club-branded mobile apps that follow the member journey to automation and artificial intelligence that help staff deliver more personalized hospitality, forward-thinking facilities are redefining what a great clubhouse experience can be.

Making moves in the smart clubhouse space for digital engagement and mobile apps are MembersFirst and Gallus Golf, with Lightspeed offering tech for F&B.

Michelle Lipka, general manager at TPC River’s Bend in Ohio, said the multi-million-dollar clubhouse redesign included new technology to strengthen member engagement. The project added a golf simulator lounge on the first level, featuring two Trackman overhead simulators that have quickly become a popular draw.

“The member logs into an app and can set up everything they want to do before they walk in the door,” she said. “The Trackman welcomes them and knows it is their turn. The member simply enters a four-digit code and off they go to enjoy a few simulator rounds.”

Lipka said the system responds in about seven-tenths of a second and no longer requires special golf balls. Members appreciate the realism, especially in Ohio where golf weather can be unpredictable for nearly half the year.

Alex Evans, regional vice president for Arcis Golf, said the goal at TPC River’s Bend was to elevate satisfaction by integrating technology that works behind the scenes.

“We did layer in some interactive features, whether it be simulators or wine dispensers,” he said. “Just the different technologies that increase the overall satisfaction along with the premium version of Golf Genius, which handles live scoring, online registration and electronic scorecards.”

Across private clubs, public golf facilities and hybrid hospitality environments, leaders are finding ways to make technology invisible, intuitive and supportive of authentic connection.

Henry DeLozier, a principal at international consulting firm GGA Partners, said the best technology is simple, reliable and never gets in the way of personal service.

“The clubs that are doing…

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