Golfdom, October 2012

O f all of the challenging aspects of a superintendents career many say budget planning and the endless meetings that coincide with it is the most dreaded Sure requesting the funds for new equipment from facility management is never easy but that doesnt mean the issue should be avoided or that your need isnt valid Its important for superintendents to research and consider their options carefully when it comes to investing in equipment Before the negotiations begin have a strong case for your request The process of purchasing new equipment can be broken down into three phases 1 researching your need 2 building and presenting your case 3 closing the deal As with any investment its essential you consider and demonstrate how youll achieve short and long term value with every purchase recommendation you make PHASE 1 STACK THE DECK WITH RESEARCH Its critical to conduct thorough research and consider every option available when investing in equipment The first thing I do is lay out each of the different scenarios regarding the equipment we need because I already know theres only so much the management team will invest in each year says Matt Weitz superintendent at Victoria National Golf Club in Newburgh Ind There are many questions to ask and answer as you map your needs to improve course operations MAKE AN OFFER THEY CANT REFUSE How can you improve operations and efficiencies What new technology is available Which portions of the course are the priority What equipment is used most frequently After considering these factors you might find you have a stronger case than you expected Paul Chojnacky golf course superintendent at Pasatiempo Golf Club in Santa Cruz Calif needed to justify considering purchasing new John Deere E Cut Hybrid fairway mowers 30 Golfdom October 2012 The keys to asking for a new equipment budget BY STEVE VINCENT NATIONAL SALES MANAGER JOHN DEERE GOLF