Real-Life Decision Making
The decisions concert promoters make can have far-reaching impacts. They can leave the audience with a memorable experience. Or they can create an unpleasant few hours that may damage the reputation of the artist and that of the promoter.
More importantly, any decision they make can hurt the bottom line.
"The consequence of error is paying too much for a concert and losing money," says Markian Saray, an independent promoter.
A promoter may take a risk on a new band, only to find out it stinks. "Everyone wants you to make a snap decision. And as a buyer, you have to remember that you don't have to," says Saray.
Concert promoters must also be able to make decisions on the spot, especially on the day of the show, when a million different things can go wrong.
You have booked the popular band Eiffel 65 at a relatively cheap price.
The band has a song called Blue. It has become a monster hit all across North America. Tickets for the show sold out quickly.
There is only one problem on the day of the show. The show is scheduled to start at 9, but the band is late because they were signing autographs at a local record store. The show eventually begins around 10 with the opening act. Eiffel 65 goes on stage at 10:30.
By this time, many people have complained about the delay and are asking for a refund. Some of the kids and their mothers were standing outside the concert hall since 6 p.m., waiting for the doors to open.
What do you do?