CERM Performance Indicators releases latest operational management benchmarking report for aquatic and recreation centres

The CERM Performance Indicators (CERM PI) initiative has announced its latest contribution to advancing industry standards - the annual release of the National Operational Management Benchmarking Report for Aquatic and Recreation Centres.

This year's report delves into a spectrum of crucial operational aspects including centre space, visitation, membership, equipment, receipts, expenditure, utilities, HR, wages and fees.

Included in this were new metrics around fitness ‘passport’ visitations and other membership metrics.

A snapshot of the findings reveals that the ‘dry’ sport and recreation centres that participated had high expense recovery percentages.

Dry centres of less than 2000 metre² in size had an 82% expense recovery, while centres over 2000 metre² had an 99% recovery. Meanwhile, aquatic centres did not always report higher expense recoveries, as outdoor pool facilities and outdoor/indoor pool facilities were found to have 50% and 78% expense recoveries, respectively (indoor pool facilities had 86%).

An overview of the newly explored metrics showed, for instance, that indoor/outdoor pool facilities had the highest median average member visits per week (1.9), followed by indoor pool facilities (1.7), and outdoor pool facilities (1.4). These findings, and bulletins as a whole, offer insights into key performance indicators, efficiency benchmarks, and emerging trends shaping the industry landscape. The report equips facility managers with the tools needed to make informed decisions that enhance the overall experience for patrons.

Releasing the report, CERM PI advise “this eagerly anticipated report marks a significant contribution to the continuous improvement of operational practices within the aquatic and recreation sector.

“As industry leaders, CERM PI recognises the importance of data-driven decision-making in elevating the performance of aquatic and recreation centres nationwide. The annual Benchmarking Report, curated in collaboration with key stakeholders, serves as a comprehensive guide for centre management and local councils.”

The operational management bulletin, along with customer service quality surveys, are refined regularly to ensure we are capturing the most relevant data related to these imperative aspects of organisational success.

To obtain a copy of the bulletin, email: cermpi@unisa.edu.au