Any kind of business that organizes events can make use of ticketing software. Sports arenas and movie theaters make use of software for ticketing. Other service or product-oriented businesses may also make use of ticketing software at trade shows or fundraisers to greatly simplify their events.

Automating your ticket-taking tasks can provide benefits for your business. You don't have to worry about over-selling your venue, since the software keeps track of ticket sales. Ticketing programs enable your business to collect payment electronically, which increases sales. Online ticketing software allows businesses to sell tickets from any place in the country. You can barcode and scan the actual tickets when customers use them, which greatly reduces the time a ticket holder must spend in line. Barcoded tickets also help a business prevent fraudulent tickets.

Some software for event ticketing are only for a specific type of event. You can customize other programs for any event. Compare ticketing software programs:

1. Determine if ticketing software exists that you can tailor to your business.

2. Define required features of the ticketing program you need.

3. Compare ticketing systems and narrow your selection to the program that suits your business best.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find ticketing software specially made for your industry

Businesses that conduct events on a regular basis, such as theaters and sports arenas require robust ticketing software to handle large numbers of transactions. Other businesses conduct events on an irregular basis, such as trade shows, conferences or public appearances. These businesses may not want to invest in a complicated ticketing software system.

I recommend: Businesses have many options such as museum ticket software, concert event software or sporting event software. Blackbaud customizes event ticketing software for non-profit organizations, such as museums, gardens and zoos. Gatemaster Systems provides ticketing software for amusement parks. Box Office Pro sells ticketing software solutions for schools, small theater groups and other groups that use auditoriums.

Buy the ticketing software that has everything you need

Some ticketing programs have more flexibility, while others have very specific applications. Concert event software and sporting event software must be able to handle different levels of seating prices. Most businesses look for software that is easy to install and use and that offers reliable technical support.

I recommend: Box Office Professional provides ticketing software designed for small- to medium-sized theaters, concert halls or sporting venues. This system prints thermal tickets, a low-cost ticketing alternative. Gateway Ticketing Systems provides full-service ticketing software that includes a reservation system, electronic and on-line payment, and hands-on training. Gateway's "Galaxy" software streamlines operations for amusement parks and bus transit systems.

Choose a ticketing software program that best meets your needs

Depending on the type and size of business, narrow down your choices to software that meets your needs. Many ticketing programs offer desirable features and customer service. Choose the one that is right for you.

I recommend: ThunderTix offers full-featured software that allows customized seating arrangements and addition of ticketing fees. PrintBox designed TMPro to simply print tickets for raffles or event entries.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Use trouble ticketing software to keep track of customer service calls. Representatives log calls on electronic 'tickets.'