Forecasting the Closing of the Akron Zoological Park
Internet Case Study for Chapter 4: Forecasting
The Akron Zoological Park
During the early 1990s, changes in consumer preferences and changes in governmental priorities, almost resulted in the permanent closing of the Akron Children’s Zoo. Lagging attendance and a low membership level did not help matters. Faced with uncertain prospects, the city of Akron opted out of the zoo business. In response, the Akron Zoological Park was organized as a corporation to operate the zoo under contract with the city.
Annual Attendance at the Akron Zoological Park Admission Fee ($)
Year Total Persons Adult Child Group
2006 122,191 4.00 2.50 1.50
2005 123,336 4.00 2.50 1.50
2004 117,874 4.00 2.50 1.50
2003 125,363 3.00 2.00 1.00
2002 126,853 3.00 2.00 1.50
2001 108,363 2.50 1.50 1.00
2000 133,762 2.50 1.50 1.00
1999 95,504 2.00 1.00 .50
1998 63,034 1.50 .75 .50
1997 63,853 1.50 .75 .50
1996 61,417 1.50 .75 .50
1995 53,353 1.50 .75 .50
To be successful, the zoo must maintain its image as a quality place for its visitors to spend their time. Its animal exhibits are clean and neat. The animals, birds, and reptiles look well cared for. As resources become available for construction and continuing operations, the zoo also keeps adding new exhibits and activities. The independent organization’s efforts seem to be working, because attendance increased from 53,353 in 1995 to an all-time record of 133,762 in 2000.
Due to its northern climate, the zoo’s open season lasts from mid-April until mid-October. It reopens for 1 week at Halloween and for the month of December. Zoo attendance depends largely on the weather. For example, attendance was down during the month of December 2000, which established many local records for the coldest temperature and the most snow. Variations in weather also affect crop yields and prices of fresh animal foods, thereby influencing the costs of animal maintenance.
In normal circumstances, the zoo may be able to achieve its target goal
The Akron Zoological Park
During the early 1990s, changes in consumer preferences and changes in governmental priorities, almost resulted in the permanent closing of the Akron Children’s Zoo. Lagging attendance and a low membership level did not help matters. Faced with uncertain prospects, the city of Akron opted out of the zoo business. In response, the Akron Zoological Park was organized as a corporation to operate the zoo under contract with the city.
Annual Attendance at the Akron Zoological Park Admission Fee ($)
Year Total Persons Adult Child Group
2006 122,191 4.00 2.50 1.50
2005 123,336 4.00 2.50 1.50
2004 117,874 4.00 2.50 1.50
2003 125,363 3.00 2.00 1.00
2002 126,853 3.00 2.00 1.50
2001 108,363 2.50 1.50 1.00
2000 133,762 2.50 1.50 1.00
1999 95,504 2.00 1.00 .50
1998 63,034 1.50 .75 .50
1997 63,853 1.50 .75 .50
1996 61,417 1.50 .75 .50
1995 53,353 1.50 .75 .50
To be successful, the zoo must maintain its image as a quality place for its visitors to spend their time. Its animal exhibits are clean and neat. The animals, birds, and reptiles look well cared for. As resources become available for construction and continuing operations, the zoo also keeps adding new exhibits and activities. The independent organization’s efforts seem to be working, because attendance increased from 53,353 in 1995 to an all-time record of 133,762 in 2000.
Due to its northern climate, the zoo’s open season lasts from mid-April until mid-October. It reopens for 1 week at Halloween and for the month of December. Zoo attendance depends largely on the weather. For example, attendance was down during the month of December 2000, which established many local records for the coldest temperature and the most snow. Variations in weather also affect crop yields and prices of fresh animal foods, thereby influencing the costs of animal maintenance.
In normal circumstances, the zoo may be able to achieve its target goal