Bob’s Bits for July 2024
August is almost upon us, and many are looking for the heat to back off. In August, many ski resorts start their new budget season, so CAPEX money becomes available, and projects start to get underway. I always thought it strange that the fiscal year began in August. I could understand a May or June […]
Why Choose ARENA
I’m often asked by folks I’m talking to about snow height measurement, “What does ARENA offer that SnowSat or Prinoth Leica doesn’t?” For those of you who read the STEEP newsletter regularly, you have seen where I have posted information about ARENA addressing the differences. Overcoming Kassbohrer’s and Prinoth’s market strength is a challenge. STEEP […]
Elevating Leadership Dynamics in Ski Resorts: Fostering Unity and Organizational Health
In many past posts, I have written about leadership and culture. Leadership is the source of health and culture, good or bad. I don’t think anybody would argue that the culture and health of a ski resort or divisions with a ski resort come from the leadership of those entities. Arguably, there are many forms […]
Bob’s Bits for June 2024
As I pen this under a heat dome, I remember summer’s diverse experiences. Just yesterday, I was surprised to learn that several inches of snow had fallen in northern Montana and Idaho. Weather, a topic we all can relate to, is a constant source of conversation, even if we can’t control it. This spring has […]
An introduction to ARENA Slope Management System for Groomer Drivers, Terrain Park Builders, Snowmakers, Snow Surface Managers, Mountain Operations Directors, and Vice Presidents.
From the Groomer Perspective. The ARENA Slope Management System is a game-changer from the groomer driver’s perspective. It provides a comprehensive overview, enhanced efficiency, and effective cost control. Its sophisticated 3D map, which displays the snow depth for each slope section in a color-coded grid, is like having a superpower. Suddenly, you’ve got this amazing […]
Leadership
The following article/podcast answers some questions and shares facts about our leadership in many facets of our work and life. Identifying the problems and issues is the first step in improving. I really hope you’ll take the time to listen. May 1, 2024, | Podcast Narcissism, overconfidence, low EQ—why do we persist in selecting for leadership […]
What Is Slope Management and What Should You Pay Attention To?
Ski areas face various challenges today, including climate change, rising energy prices, and increasing competitive pressure. To be successful under tougher conditions, ski areas need a mix of data analysis, resource-saving strategies, and clear communication—in short, modern slope management. Winter sports today face various challenges, from the rise in temperature to the energy price crisis […]
What’s New with MountainOffice?
Over the past five months, MountainOffice has released two updates; another is in the works. The transition from a Windows-based to a Web-based system has been the driver of the updates over the last 18 months, but the latter has features that weren’t available in the Windows version. I thought sharing a reasonably short video […]
Innovation for Next Season
As we close the 2023/24 season and gear up for the next, Steep Management urges you to consider the ARENA Slope Management system. This innovative tool, especially beneficial after the warmest winter on record in North America, promises to reduce costs and ensure a consistent and high level of slope quality, setting the stage for […]
The How of Leadership Teams
After reading Katie Brinton’s article “Following the Leader” in the March 2024 issue of SAM, I wanted to raise my hand and say I agree with everything she wrote, but will state it more simply. Like most people who have held leadership roles in business, especially in the ski industry, I had no leadership training. […]
