Which strategy to attract more players is supported by research on the amount of time available to today's golfing and non-golfing populations?

Which strategy to attract more players is supported by research on the amount of time available to today's golfing and non-golfing populations?

• A. Divide the course into three six-hole segments
• B. Extend the course hours
• C. Add more par-3s
• D. Increase greens fees

Answer: (A)

When people have limited time, ways to play golf that shorten the time commitment tend to attract more players. Dividing the course into three six-hole segments creates flexible, shorter playing options. Players can tackle six holes at a time, combine segments for 12 holes, or do a full 18, choosing a pace and-length that fit their day. This approach boosts throughput—more people can play in the same time window—and lowers the barrier for both current golfers with busier schedules and potential new players who feel 18 holes is too long. Extending course hours helps some, but it doesn’t change how long a round takes; changing hole types to be more par-3 heavy doesn’t necessarily shorten the commitment; raising greens fees can deter participation. The segmentation directly addresses the primary constraint identified in the research—time available—making it the most effective strategy.

When people have limited time, ways to play golf that shorten the time commitment tend to attract more players. Dividing the course into three six-hole segments creates flexible, shorter playing options. Players can tackle six holes at a time, combine segments for 12 holes, or do a full 18, choosing a pace and-length that fit their day. This approach boosts throughput—more people can play in the same time window—and lowers the barrier for both current golfers with busier schedules and potential new players who feel 18 holes is too long.

Extending course hours helps some, but it doesn’t change how long a round takes; changing hole types to be more par-3 heavy doesn’t necessarily shorten the commitment; raising greens fees can deter participation. The segmentation directly addresses the primary constraint identified in the research—time available—making it the most effective strategy.