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Create a Frequent Parker Program section
Hi,
This is Oz from SmartPark JFK. I see you have sections for rewards programs but none for parking? Oz |
Since new sections are voted and decided on by the FT Talkboard, I have moved this thread there. Please note that a new section will only be voted on if you ask for it in a certain format. More here: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/talkb...onsidered.html
Regards Oliver2002 Senior Mod ps: Welcome to FT!^ |
What is a parker? Like frequent parking?
|
An interesting proposal. I have to admit that when I do travel, I do make sure to get points for parking. And I do know that at least in the DFW area, there are a few different FPP (Frequent Parking Programs) available.
The real question though is if people will really discuss much about these programs. I did a quick search (using "Frequent Parking") within MilesBuzz! and only found 7 threads over the last 13 years. Now that doesn't mean that if there were a forum for this topic that traffic would pick-up nor does it mean that there aren't other threads within that forum (or other forums as well). I would guess the TB is going to want to see either an existing demand (i.e. threads/posts) or a good argument around the "build it and they will come" idea. But I do like the thought and think that it has some merrit at least. |
There are 3-4 threads in TravelBuzz using your search criteria.
I don't see enough demand for a dedicated forum, but perhaps a sticky somewhere? Cheers. |
Originally Posted by oliver2002
(Post 19116223)
Since new sections are voted and decided on by the FT Talkboard, I have moved this thread there. Please note that a new section will only be voted on if you ask for it in a certain format. More here: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/talkb...onsidered.html
Regards Oliver2002 Senior Mod ps: Welcome to FT!^
Originally Posted by skchin
(Post 19116885)
What is a parker? Like frequent parking?
Originally Posted by hhoope01
(Post 19117371)
An interesting proposal. I have to admit that when I do travel, I do make sure to get points for parking. And I do know that at least in the DFW area, there are a few different FPP (Frequent Parking Programs) available.
The real question though is if people will really discuss much about these programs. I did a quick search (using "Frequent Parking") within MilesBuzz! and only found 7 threads over the last 13 years. Now that doesn't mean that if there were a forum for this topic that traffic would pick-up nor does it mean that there aren't other threads within that forum (or other forums as well). I would guess the TB is going to want to see either an existing demand (i.e. threads/posts) or a good argument around the "build it and they will come" idea. But I do like the thought and think that it has some merrit at least.
Originally Posted by SkiAdcock
(Post 19117973)
There are 3-4 threads in TravelBuzz using your search criteria.
I don't see enough demand for a dedicated forum, but perhaps a sticky somewhere? Cheers. While I understand that there may not be a great buzz or demand for it right now. That is exactly why I feel it should have its own forum. The SmartPark JFK "Confirm To Earn" Frequent Parker Loyalty Program is the only program that: 1. Automatically starts accumulating points for parkers with any effort on their part. Simply redeem your reservation and its 1pt for every paid day. Every 7 points = 1 free added to your account automatically. 2. No need to sign up or register. As of September 21, 2011. When you place a reservation at http://www.smartparkjfk.com your placement of the reservation starts the accumulation process. You simply look at the top of your reservation confirmation email and you will see a temporary password. It is built into the edit/cancel/print part of the reservation system. Other programs require you to sign up in order to receive free days. Then you have to carry a card or key fob or print out. Your free days are automatically added AND YOU control how and when to use them. YOU apply and save them to your future reservation(s). I hope this answers any/all questions. If not, feel free to contact me any time. Oz SmartPark JFK |
There is a number of parking services throughout the US that offer frequent parker benefits, as I have found out. As to whether there is a mass of interest sufficient to start a dedicated Forum, the guidelines used here to determine volume and interest are contained in the "sticky" thread at the header of the Forum here: What is the TalkBoard and How are New Forums and Other Suggestions Considered?. In particular:
Code:
What is the TalkBoard and How are New Forums and |
At a quick glance it appears that the OP wants a place where they can plug their commercial venture or their employer's commercial venture.
I'd think this would be a great example of the type of thread that could go into a Commercial, For-Profit forum. :) |
Originally Posted by kipper
(Post 19128061)
At a quick glance it appears that the OP wants a place where they can plug their commercial venture or their employer's commercial venture.
I'd think this would be a great example of the type of thread that could go into a Commercial, For-Profit forum. :) While I certainly see what you mean and understand your post. I have more than just a business interest in SmartPark JFK. I ACTUALLY want to HELP REDUCE travelers costs when traveling. SmartPark JFK is a vehicle(no pun intended) for that. I have complete control and anything I do for anyone on FlyerTalk is at my own discretion. I can give away one free day. I can give away two free days. (I have already done this for two members on flyertalk) I can give away many free days. Quite frankly, I can comp the entire stay at SmartPark JFK. So, you see, its a little more "personal" than just "business" for me ;) I just feel I can be a valuable addition to FT. |
I'd assume the vast majority of us have a single airport or city where we use airport parking (our hometown). If so, Parking threads probably fit better in the destination forums than gathered together into a central place.
Parking programs seem to usually be pretty simple, with way fewer quirks, restrictions, bonuses, promotions, and partnerships compared to airlines or hotels. That doesn't make them less useful, but it means there's less to discuss. OP, I would suggest contacting FT to change your status to "official company rep" and then offering to help people with concierge & help desk issues (hey, why didn't my points post?). |
Moderator note
This has been suggested to Admin.
JDiver, Senior Moderator
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19137548)
While I certainly see what you mean and understand your post. I have more than just a business interest in SmartPark JFK.
I ACTUALLY want to HELP REDUCE travelers costs when traveling. SmartPark JFK is a vehicle(no pun intended) for that. ... I just feel I can be a valuable addition to FT.
Originally Posted by swag
(Post 19139698)
...
OP, I would suggest contacting FT to change your status to "official company rep" and then offering to help people with concierge & help desk issues (hey, why didn't my points post?). |
Originally Posted by swag
(Post 19139698)
I'd assume the vast majority of us have a single airport or city where we use airport parking (our hometown). If so, Parking threads probably fit better in the destination forums than gathered together into a central place.
Parking programs seem to usually be pretty simple, with way fewer quirks, restrictions, bonuses, promotions, and partnerships compared to airlines or hotels. That doesn't make them less useful, but it means there's less to discuss. 1) Are you aware of any other frequent parking programs at JFK? 2) Are the things about your program applicable to parking at any other airport? In other words, is there a SmartPark in other places with the same terms? |
Originally Posted by swag
(Post 19139698)
Parking programs seem to usually be pretty simple, with way fewer quirks, restrictions, bonuses, promotions, and partnerships compared to airlines or hotels. That doesn't make them less useful, but it means there's less to discuss.
In my experience, other facilities have: - DENIED the customer their free days at checkout because they actually do not keep tracking of them automatically as they claim to do(pretty much saying they do because we say we do and in fact... DO! - DENIED the customer free day(s) at checkout because they didnt have printout, FPP card, key fob, etc. - Fine print that lets their free days/points/rewards expire. Our points do not expire. While it is possible that they may in the future. Currently I am fighting for NOT EXPIRING EVER! So, there is much to talk about when it comes to Frequent Parker Programs. IMO. :)
Originally Posted by lo2e
(Post 19140028)
Agreed with swag. Two questions for the OP:
1) Are you aware of any other frequent parking programs at JFK? 2) Are the things about your program applicable to parking at any other airport? In other words, is there a SmartPark in other places with the same terms? Answer 1: Yes, I am. I would rather not refer to competitors though. I do know how their programs work and they are shady in some cases. I can PM you with the info I have on the other programs :) Answer 2: Currenly only JFK. But there are plans in the works for other location(s). |
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19140587)
Answer 1: Yes, I am. I would rather not refer to competitors though. I do know how their programs work and they are shady in some cases. I can PM you with the info I have on the other programs :)
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19140587)
Answer 2: Currenly only JFK. But there are plans in the works for other location(s).
|
Originally Posted by lo2e
(Post 19144591)
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19140587)
Answer 2: Currenly only JFK. But there are plans in the works for other location(s).
Not to mention there's already an existing thread on SmartPark in our NYC Forum. I see no need to promote its services nor program details in TB Topics Forum. ;) |
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19127734)
The SmartPark JFK "Confirm To Earn" Frequent Parker Loyalty Program is the only program that: 1. Automatically starts accumulating points for parkers with any effort on their part. Simply redeem your reservation and its 1pt for every paid day. Every 7 points = 1 free added to your account automatically. 2. No need to sign up or register. As of September 21, 2011. When you place a reservation at http://www.smartparkjfk.com your placement of the reservation starts the accumulation process. You simply look at the top of your reservation confirmation email and you will see a temporary password. It is built into the edit/cancel/print part of the reservation system. Other programs require you to sign up in order to receive free days. Then you have to carry a card or key fob or print out. Your free days are automatically added AND YOU control how and when to use them. YOU apply and save them to your future reservation(s).
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19137548)
While I certainly see what you mean and understand your post. I have more than just a business interest in SmartPark JFK.
I ACTUALLY want to HELP REDUCE travelers costs when traveling. SmartPark JFK is a vehicle(no pun intended) for that.
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19137548)
I have complete control and anything I do for anyone on FlyerTalk is at my own discretion.
I can give away one free day. I can give away two free days. (I have already done this for two members on flyertalk) I can give away many free days. Quite frankly, I can comp the entire stay at SmartPark JFK. So, you see, its a little more "personal" than just "business" for me ;)
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19140587)
In my experience, other facilities have:
- DENIED the customer their free days at checkout because they actually do not keep tracking of them automatically as they claim to do(pretty much saying they do because we say we do and in fact... DO! - DENIED the customer free day(s) at checkout because they didnt have printout, FPP card, key fob, etc. - Fine print that lets their free days/points/rewards expire. Our points do not expire. While it is possible that they may in the future. Currently I am fighting for NOT EXPIRING EVER! You're really not making a good case for why there should be a Frequent Parker section, you're mainly just pitching us why your program is better. Instead of bashing your competitors you should have come here to talk about how the forum needs a section for talking about Frequent Parker programs, but alas you're clearly promoting only ONE Frequent Parker Program.
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19140587)
Answer 1: Yes, I am. I would rather not refer to competitors though. I do know how their programs work and they are shady in some cases. I can PM you with the info I have on the other programs :) I'm not a moderator, heck I'm not even close to being a voice of authority when it comes to the travel forums, but at the end of the day each of your posts just reek of a company plugging for business. Don't try to thinly veil your motives behind the idea of helping customers save money and then later say you don't want to send people to your "competitors" even though they might save money that way. If you're REALLY posting this on your own time and not as a company plug and even if it's being posted on company time you should have no problem talking about your competitors and letting THEIR product stand or fall on it's own. If your company really is better than others then you don't need to attack THEIR product in order to make yours look better. Sales 101: Customers know when you're being insincere. |
You have clearly made up your mind on my intentions. Unfortunate.
Sometimes... someone... just wants to "do right" and help people in some small way (few bucks, few free days, etc) THATS ME! Quite simply - if ANYONE needs JFK parking and wants free days - I am the go to guy. Thats all, nothing more. Being offended by having a "inside connection" for lack of a better term is something I cannot control. EVERYONE has the choice to go to another facility. If there is any way that I can earn your trust I am open to suggestions? Sincerely - HAVE A GREAT DAY! I WILL :) Oz (that guy)
Originally Posted by serioustraveler
(Post 19244985)
Citation needed, but really this entire thread just screams promoting your company.
Sure, you say this isn't just about promoting SmartPark JFK, and that you want to help REDUCE travelers costs. I'll remember this. Sure as heck smells like business to me, given that you're working with predetermined "discounts" you're "authorized" to give us. Unless you have some empirical data to back this, you just come off as a salesman pitching that YOUR product is superior to your competitors. You're really not making a good case for why there should be a Frequent Parker section, you're mainly just pitching us why your program is better. Instead of bashing your competitors you should have come here to talk about how the forum needs a section for talking about Frequent Parker programs, but alas you're clearly promoting only ONE Frequent Parker Program. Er what, you said earlier that it's not just about your program. I'm not a moderator, heck I'm not even close to being a voice of authority when it comes to the travel forums, but at the end of the day each of your posts just reek of a company plugging for business. Don't try to thinly veil your motives behind the idea of helping customers save money and then later say you don't want to send people to your "competitors" even though they might save money that way. If you're REALLY posting this on your own time and not as a company plug and even if it's being posted on company time you should have no problem talking about your competitors and letting THEIR product stand or fall on it's own. If your company really is better than others then you don't need to attack THEIR product in order to make yours look better. Sales 101: Customers know when you're being insincere. |
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19436840)
You have clearly made up your mind on my intentions. Unfortunate.
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19436840)
If there is any way that I can earn your trust I am open to suggestions?
One other thing to consider, in addition to the questions in the post I linked to above, might be to delineate exactly how putting nationwide/worldwide parking information in one forum might be better than putting it in area-specific forums. Are there any nationwide (or at least multi-airport) frequent parking programs? |
Originally Posted by lo2e
(Post 19437693)
Are there any nationwide (or at least multi-airport) frequent parking programs?
I think parking threads are best served in the regional forums and not a consolidated one for all of the US, let alone other countries. |
Originally Posted by FlyinHawaiian
(Post 19437870)
I think parking threads are best served in the regional forums and not a consolidated one for all of the US, let alone other countries.
|
Originally Posted by SmartParkJFK
(Post 19436840)
Sometimes... someone... just wants to "do right" and help people in some small way (few bucks, few free days, etc) THATS ME!
|
Originally Posted by tom911
(Post 19440208)
Originally Posted by FlyinHawaiian
(Post 19437870)
I think parking threads are best served in the regional forums and not a consolidated one for all of the US, let alone other countries.
|
Why does Park'N Fly not have its own forum??
They are nationwide and the largest in their industry?? |
Originally Posted by gkbiiii
(Post 19443356)
Why does Park'N Fly not have its own forum??
|
Originally Posted by tom911
(Post 19443667)
Should certain vendors be allowed to have their own forums? Don't think the Talk Board has ruled on that one yet.
I track two Parking programs in my AwardWallet account, and have had to guess on how/if/what regarding redemption in the past. So being raised by a company rep doesn't automatically brand it as a horrible scam that at least one person thinks it is. How 'bout this: I, as a FT member and user of frequent parker programs, with absolutely no business affiliation with any parking company, propose the creation of frequent parking program-related forum(s). |
Originally Posted by CPRich
(Post 19474301)
How would an Park N Fly forum differ from a Avis forum, a United forum, a Hilton forum, etc.? Those all seem to be dedicated to one company.
It looks like the two frequent parking companies that have now been mentioned in this thread seem to have one way to earn rewards (by using their parking lot frequently), and one way to spend such rewards (free/discounted/more convenient parking). Neither has a credit card associated with it, and neither allows you to redeem your "rewards" for anything that I could find other than parking-related services. There doesn't seem to be quite the level of complication with frequent parking companies that there does with the frequent flyer/stayer/renter programs, and trust me, I wish that all programs were as simple as the parking companies seem to make it! ^ But because it is so simple, it just doesn't seem to me to warrant a complete forum for it, especially since, as mentioned before, there probably aren't a lot of people that would frequently use parking services at more than one airport.
Originally Posted by CPRich
(Post 19474301)
I, as a FT member and user of frequent parker programs, with absolutely no business affiliation with any parking company, propose the creation of frequent parking program-related forum(s).
|
Originally Posted by CPRich
(Post 19474301)
How would an Park N Fly forum differ from a Avis forum, a United forum, a Hilton forum, etc.? Those all seem to be dedicated to one company.
How 'bout this: I, as a FT member and user of frequent parker programs, with absolutely no business affiliation with any parking company, propose the creation of frequent parking program-related forum(s). Having said that, I think for the most part the need is met already in regional forums. So it will take some convincing to get me to vote for one. Having said that, if you'd like TB to consider such a forum, then I would recommend either the OP or CPRich answering the following, which helps Talkboard when considering new forums. The following are qualitative criteria that the TalkBoard believes are useful to consider when evaluating proposals to create, close, split, or move forums. Whenever a forum change is discussed on the TalkBoard Topics, the TalkBoard encourages posters to fully address these criteria in addition to any other reasons supporting or opposing the change. 1. Will the forum be (or is it now) beneficial to FlyerTalk? 2. Will the new forum benefit a relationship with FlyerTalk? E.g., does the forum provide value for FT members, such as a friendly ear highly placed in the company 3. Is FT the best place to discuss this subject? 4. Is there a passionate following? This is essential in order to provide dedicated expert helpers to get questions answered. 5. Is a critical mass of posts and readers anticipated or existing? We need adequate traffic to keep everyone visiting frequently. One living forum is more valuable than two mostly dead ones. 6. Is this the best place on FlyerTalk for this subject? This is the classification issue. The answer depends primarily on achieving and maintaining critical mass. It also depends on whether or where the discussion might (or does) occur in the absence of the forum. 7. For proposals to split a forum, is the split expected to improve the signal to noise ratio? Why? Cheers. |
Originally Posted by CPRich
(Post 19474301)
How would an Park N Fly forum differ from a Avis forum, a United forum, a Hilton forum, etc.? Those all seem to be dedicated to one company.
Are that that many national parking chains to give them a forum of their own? We have some independent ones I can think of around SFO (Burlingame Airport Parking, Anza, Park SFO). What would you do with them? |
Originally Posted by lo2e
(Post 19437693)
Unfortunate also that you ignored JDiver's post HERE which asked for some specific information to gauge the level of interest of your proposed forum. Either you missed it or chose not to answer, but either way it would go a LONG way toward you making a case for the forum. As of now, I would agree with previous comments that you've done little more than advertise your product, which does not constitute creating a forum by itself.
I assure you Sir I did not ignore it. I did miss it. At this point, I see the posts and that a forum is not something that is desired and I am ok with that. :) If anyone needs anything JFK parking related just let me know - simple!
Originally Posted by tom911
(Post 19440221)
That option is currently available to you in the New York City forum. You can help every poster that asks about parking at JFK right there.
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I would certainly support the formation of the suggested forum in question.
There are a number of airport parking facilities some of them national in the United States which offer loyalty programs. |
Originally Posted by Canarsie
(Post 19530207)
I would certainly support the formation of the suggested forum in question.
|
Originally Posted by tom911
(Post 19530291)
How do the Talk Board members feel, though? This topic has been out there for two months and only one member has commented and offered suggestions.
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/talkb...elections.html |
Originally Posted by lin821
(Post 19530747)
I haven't seen a case made for a stand-alone forum, and my take is most parking programs are handled well in the regional forums. My guess (and it's only that) is that other TB members feel the same. Cheers. |
There are several parking companies with locations throughout the United States that offer frequent parking loyalty programs, such as:
Confining this topic to regional forums is a disservice, in my opinion. Which of these companies offer free shuttle service? Which has the best frequent parking loyalty program? Which has the best discount coupons? Which offers water or soft drinks upon check-out? Which gives away newspapers? Which gives you bonus airline miles? Which offers pet-sitting services, car wash and detailing services, or discounts with partners? I have to go through each regional forum to find this information out? Plus, there are many FlyerTalk members who use more than one base airport to park their vehicles — perhaps for work, because they own more than one home, or for the purposes of positioning for a “mileage run” or sale airfare not available at the closest airport to where they are based. For these and other reasons, I support the creation of a forum for frequent parking loyalty programs and airport parking discounts and services. |
Originally Posted by SkiAdcock
(Post 19539105)
Originally Posted by lin821
(Post 19530747)
Originally Posted by tom911
(Post 19530291)
How do the Talk Board members feel, though? This topic has been out there for two months and only one member has commented and offered suggestions.
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/talkb...elections.html I simply pointed out a timeline. What I meant or implied was that a new TB election is coming up next month and we don't know if every current TBer will be serving again in the new term starting December 2012. It probably wouldn't mean much if we heard from those TBers who wouldn't be on the next term. No need to show your rolleyes on my matter-of-fact statement. Two and half months ago, this thread was nothing but a (misplaced) thread for OP to self-promote his own parking service/program in JFK. However, things have changed when Canarsie put some great thought and made a much better case for creating a frequent parking loyalty programs forum on FT. IMHO, giving this new "twist", if there's any new "development" of a proposal, or a remotely possible motion, it probably would make sense to have it happen till all the new TBers are in office. YMMV. |
Originally Posted by Canarsie
(Post 19539977)
For these and other reasons, I support the creation of a forum for frequent parking loyalty programs and airport parking discounts and services.
I'm personally not averse to some forums being more for informational purposes rather than having a lot of posting traffic, but I think most prefer to have forums with some minimum level of posting "traffic" whatever that is. And I think that might be the sticking point with this being a forum. |
Originally Posted by tom911
(Post 19440208)
I agree. We frequently discuss SFO parking options in the San Francisco forum. No need to move that discussion out of there into some specialized parking forum.
My experience with Frequent Parker programs is colored by a zero-notice devaluation by Parking Company of America. I filled three of their punch cards, each of which says it's good for 10 days of free parking. No longer. I could send them in and get banked points worth much less. Fortunately BART now goes to SFO. Frequent parker programs would not have sufficient interest even if they could be counted on. You can discuss them in SPAM if you like, along with the topics like the defunct Subway punch cards for a free sandwich. |
Originally Posted by hhoope01
(Post 19549132)
I don't question that there are national parking programs out there (or even programs that might span more than one region.) The question really concerns whether there would be much discourse around those programs and parking in general.
I'm personally not averse to some forums being more for informational purposes rather than having a lot of posting traffic, but I think most prefer to have forums with some minimum level of posting "traffic" whatever that is. And I think that might be the sticking point with this being a forum. However, I am having an issue with one frequent parking program of which I am a member, and for comparison purposes, I would like to discuss it but am loathe to post it in a regional forum, the TravelBuzz! forum or the S.P.A.M. forum because none of those forums really fit the topic, in my opinion — so I did not post the issue. If there was a dedicated forum for frequent parking programs and parking programs which offer discounts, that would be the proper forum — again, just expressing my opinion. |
Originally Posted by Canarsie
(Post 19550071)
However, I am having an issue with one frequent parking program of which I am a member, and for comparison purposes, I would like to discuss it but am loathe to post it in a regional forum, the TravelBuzz! forum or the S.P.A.M. forum because none of those forums really fit the topic, in my opinion so I did not post the issue.
If there was a dedicated forum for frequent parking programs and parking programs which offer discounts, that would be the proper forum again, just expressing my opinion. |
Originally Posted by nsx
(Post 19550204)
Why doesn't SPAM fit? That's where ebates and all sorts of minor rebate programs go.
...because parking at an airport is part of travel — speaking for myself, of course — and there are frequent parking loyalty programs which not only offer points, but some even offer bonus airline frequent flier miles. Miles and points has always been the core discussion and raison d’๊tre of FlyerTalk. Based on this line of reasoning, discussion dedicated to frequent parking loyalty programs deserves its own forum on FlyerTalk — but that is merely my conclusion. The S.P.A.M. forum was initially created as Sites with Points and Alternative Miles for loyalty programs other than for travel purposes. MyPoints is one example. I believe that frequent parking loyalty programs deserve a forum on FlyerTalk every bit as much as for frequent travel programs for airlines, hotels and rental cars. |
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