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The terms "parking operations" and "parking management" are often used interchangeably, but their meanings are quite distinct. Read on to learn just how different these similar-sounding words really are.

1.     Parking operations focus on individual services, while management encompasses a broader range of services.

The first key difference between parking operations and management is the services' scope. Parking operations focus on individual services required to keep a parking facility running smoothly. For example, an on-site parking attendant is responsible for assisting customers or enforcing parking regulations. By contrast, parking management encompasses a broader range of services, including parking facility design and revenue management.

2.     Parking operations focus solely on day-to-day activities, while management refers to the complete parking program.

The human element involved is the second key difference between parking operations and parking management. Parking operations focus on the day-to-day activities required to keep a parking facility running smoothly. This may include deploying on-site attendants to assist customers and enforce parking regulations. In other words, parking operations are all about managing the human aspect of parking.

On the other hand, parking management encompasses not only the people involved in day-to-day parking operations, but also the hardware and software associated with a parking facility. This may include services such as virtual customer service, gated parking systems, and monthly permit parking technology. Parking management is a more comprehensive approach beyond just managing the human element. 

3.     Parking operations rely on traditional means, while management incorporates innovative technologies to streamline processes.

The third key difference between parking operations and management is the technology level involved. Parking operations rely on traditional methods, such as manual ticketing and cash and coin payments, whereas parking management leverage hardware and software integrations to streamline operations and improve customer service. This can include increasingly popular conveniences like license plate recognition systems, online reservation systems, and mobile payment options. 

Parking operations and parking management both refer to the methods and strategies parking facility stakeholders employ to achieve their business objectives, but by understanding the distinctions between them we’ve just examined, we gain greater insight into what technology and services are available and how market preferences are shifting.

Reference

Tucci, M. (2020, July 27). The difference between parking operations and parking management. Parking Industry. Retrieved March 24, 2023, from  

Melissa Tucci

Client Relations Manager, Precise ParkLink