Table Spreads
The determination of table gaming spreads and matching table openings with variable demand levels.
By Andrew MacDonald
Gaming Analyst, Adelaide Casino, 1992
Introduction | Variable Volume Rostering | Optimising Profits | Conclusion |
Once a Casino is in operation, it is essential to modify table openings with changes in patronage. Patronage changes hourly, daily and often seasonally and therefore it is important to ensure that table openings are structured to supply the right tables at the right time in an efficient manner.
Given that in most casinos opening another table game is not as easy as having on-call staff who can be ready and on the gaming floor in a short period, it is therefore necessary to “survey” actual demand for specific tables either by using manual sampling techniques or by using on-line computerised table game financial reporting systems.
An example of the process which may be utilised is as follows:-
1) A Pit Boss or other Casino staff member records at hourly or two hourly intervals information on the type of table game open, its minimum bet denomination and the number of players actually wagering on that game at that specific time (for example Time : 1400 hours ; Blackjack ; $5 minimum ; six players).
2) That information is then collated for all table games within the facility across the range of operating hours and separately maintained for each day of the week.
For Example : Monday Date xx/yy
|
Hour
|
Game
|
Denomination
|
No. Open Tables
|
Players
|
| 1400 |
BJ
|
$5
|
5
|
30
|
|
BJ
|
$25
|
2
|
4
|
|
|
AR
|
$2
|
3
|
15
|
|
|
AR
|
$5
|
1
|
2
|
3) This sample information may then be grouped by day of the week or by a more subjective “peak” and “off peak” classification to provide a pattern of demand.
4) Analysis of the data may then be conducted to ascertain how well actual table openings match patron demand.
5) Once analysed corrective action may be initiated to open more tables at specific times or on particular days or conversely to close tables. Alternatively it may be determined that the mix of tables or game denominations is inappropriate and thus whilst total numbers are correct, certain modifications to enhance efficiency may be worthwhile.
What can simply be done to enable this process is to determine a somewhat arbitrary “optimal” number of players for each game type and denomination. The following provides an example:-
1) Blackjack $5 to $25 (minimum bet denomination) tables ; optimal players per open table = 6
2) Blackjack $25 tables and above ; optimal players per open table = 4
3) Roulette $2 to $5 tables ; optimal players per open table = 6
4) Roulette $5 tables and above ; optimal players per open table = 5
5) Mini Baccarat $5 tables and above ; optimal players per open table = 6
6) Big Baccarat $25 table and above ; optimal players per open table = 12
This process can be carried out for each game type and denomination and based on actual player numbers for each period it is possible to calculate an “optimal” number of tables which should be open at specific times and on specific days.
The variation between actual and “optimal” can then be monitored and modified to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.
