Is Now the Time to Consider New Horse Show Management Software?

If you operate in the same circles as I do—riding at horse shows, competition management and office operations, judging, involvement with organizations and associations—you’ve probably heard a lot of buzz about horse show management software recently. Conversations with show managers, office secretaries, other show staff, and those managing associations increasingly revolve around evaluating new tools for managing horse shows and points. This surge in dialogue comes as the industry experiences a long-overdue wave of innovation.

For years, horse show management software remained stagnant. Platforms largely relied on outdated designs and offered little in the way of meaningful outreach or improvements. But now, change is in the air. A host of new, cloud-based platforms has entered the market, with providers actively reaching out to potential customers to demonstrate how they can serve them better.

This raises an important question: Is now the right time to adopt new software? And if so, which platform is the best fit?

The Considerations When Exploring New Software

Switching to new software is a significant decision. It’s not just about flashy new features or a sleek design—those alone don’t guarantee a better experience. The critical question is: Who designed the software? Was it created by people who understand the unique needs of horse shows? Does it solve the issues that have plagued older systems, or does it simply repackage the same limitations?

Horse Spot, for example, was built by show management experts—people who have spent years in the trenches, running horse shows, working in offices, and solving the everyday challenges faced by managers, secretaries, and exhibitors. This deep understanding is reflected in every aspect of the platform, from how billing is handled to how schedules are presented.

What Show Managers Are Saying

When discussing software, show managers often share similar feedback:

• “I defer to my secretaries for software decisions.”
• “I’m not sure what platform we use—I leave that to the office.”
• “Ultimately, I’ll go with whatever my secretaries prefer.”
• “Exhibitors? I’m more focused on keeping my secretaries happy.”

While supporting secretaries is critical, this perspective can overlook a key point: What do exhibitors want, and what are they coming to expect? The reality is that exhibitors increasingly value modern, mobile-friendly platforms that make tasks like checking schedules, accessing results, and paying invoices seamless.

Another perspective: Even if you choose not to switch now, other shows in your area might. Exhibitors will notice the difference, and those using modern platforms will earn accolades for leading the way. On the flip side, being an innovator can set your horse show apart, earning goodwill from both exhibitors and your team.

What Secretaries Are Saying

At first, secretaries often express reservations about trying something new. And I don’t blame them:

• “I’ve never thought about switching software.”
• “This is what we’ve always used, and I think it works fine.”
• “I’d need manager approval before considering anything else.”
• “I’m not thrilled with our current software, but it’s what everyone uses.”
• “I don’t think I have a choice because my association requires it.”

But after using Horse Spot, the feedback changes dramatically:

• “Wow, this is surprisingly easy!”
• “It’s fast and user-friendly.”
• “I’m impressed—you’ve built a powerful platform.”
• “I’m finally comfortable with something new.”
• “I actually enjoy doing billing and splits now!”
• “Wow, you guys have a results export that will work for my associations. Great!”

These reactions underscore an important point: The right software can transform your team’s operations.

What to Look for in New Software

When evaluating new platforms, it’s essential to choose a tool designed by people who truly understand horse shows. Look for software created by experienced show managers, office staff, and exhibitors who have faced the same challenges you do. Avoid platforms that are new and shiny but lack the practical functionality your team needs.

Horse Spot is uniquely positioned to meet these criteria. Built by industry experts, it blends ease of use with powerful features, providing a platform that serves managers, secretaries, and exhibitors alike.

Take the Leap

Switching software can feel daunting, but the rewards of adopting a modern platform are undeniable. Whether you’re ready to make a change now or simply exploring your options, it’s worth considering how a thoughtfully designed solution like Horse Spot can set your horse show apart.

If you’re interested in learning more about how Horse Spot can work for you, reach out to our team. We’d love to show you how easy it is to bring innovation to your horse shows—and why so many managers and secretaries are glad they took the leap.

Horse Spot: Built by horse show experts, for horse show success.

Set up a meeting

michael@horsespot.net

630-399-4836

Just a few of the show management teams new to Horse Spot in 2024:

USEF & USHJA Rated Shows

• Texas Rose Horse Park - Tyler, TX
• Cheryl & Co. - Alpharetta, GA
• The Ridge in Wellington, FL
• Partridge Run Horse Shows at Swan Lake Stables - Littlestown, PA
• Notting Hill Invitational at Florida Horse Park - Ocala, FL

USHJA Outreach & Unrated Shows

• ExEL Horse Shows at Germantown, TN Charity Horse Show Grounds
• Derby @ the Vineyard Shows - throughout Pennsylvania & Virginia
• North Texas Hunter Jumper Club - throughout northern Texas
• Sunni Bell Horse Shows - Pennsylvania
• Matador Farm Horse Shows - Michigan
• Stonegate Classics - Minnesota
• Red Pine Horse Shows - Minnesota

Multi-breed, Western, Ranch, Pleasure, etc.

• Southwest Missouri Regional All Breed Shows - Missouri
• Horses For A Better World - Missouri
• SoCal Ranch Riders - California

‍