
Bristol Old Vic
Spektrix and Nimbus Disability integration partnership brings new opportunities for disabled arts patrons
In mid-2024, Bristol Old Vic implemented a new integration with Nimbus Disability within their Spektrix ticketing system.
This cutting-edge integration streamlines the booking process for patrons with access needs. Customers with an Access Card can seamlessly link their card details to their existing customer record in Bristol Old Vic’s Spektrix system or effortlessly create a new one. This automatically populates their access requirements within the system, simplifying ticket selection.
For those without an Access Card, the system offers a convenient opportunity to join a free access scheme managed by Nimbus on behalf of Bristol Old Vic
Louise Parry, Ticketing and CRM Manager from the Bristol Old Vic Theatre said,
“The whole process was really straightforward to set up and the team at Nimbus were great. We are able to use the Access Card integration seamlessly alongside our previous system to ensure that all of our customers get the best service and assistance that they need. Customers can register and book straight away without having to wait until normal Box Office opening hours.”
One Access Customer and a regular attendee at The Old Vic was the first to link his access card to the ticketing system:
“It’s soooooo easy using the nimbus registration access scheme. Saves venues wasting their precious time having to go through all the supporting information every time someone new wants to book accessible tickets. It’s also less stressful for me as I have social anxiety and struggle talking over the phone etc. It was all grand!”
Speaking of the integration, Liv Nilssen, Director of Strategy at Spektrix said;
"We believe attending live events and securing tickets should be a seamless and enjoyable experience for every customer. That's why we're thrilled about the integration of the Nimbus Access Card with Spektrix. This empowers our clients to easily and respectfully manage access requirements, removing barriers for customers- and taking the onus off of venues. Designed by and for disabled people, this solution ensures people with access needs don’t have to settle for less when booking and attending. It's about making access fast, easy, and enjoyable – for our clients and their audiences."
Martin Austin MBE, Managing Director and founder of Nimbus and The Access Card scheme, states:
“The scheme has grown so much that we now work with everyone from theme parks and festivals to Premier League football clubs.
“What the Spektrix integration represents to me personally is embracing a scheme that isn't specific to any particular industry – because disabled people themselves aren't sector-specific. We hope that by promoting a theatre's services on our directory and simplifying the booking process, more disabled people will be encouraged to visit and become regular patrons."
Case study
Challenge:
Bristol Old Vic, a historic and renowned theatre, sought to improve the online booking experience for disabled patrons. They aimed to make it easier for customers to communicate their access needs and purchase appropriate tickets online, ensuring a smooth and inclusive experience.
Solution:
The theatre integrated the Nimbus NOS (Nimbus Operating System) into their Spektrix ticketing system. This integration allows customers to link their Access Cards to their online ticketing accounts, automatically populating their access requirements within the Spektrix system.
Benefits:
- Improved Customer Experience: Disabled patrons can now purchase tickets online with ease, eliminating the need for phone calls or emails to explain their access needs.
- Increased Accessibility: The integration ensures that accessible seating options are clearly identified and easily booked by those who need them.
- Streamlined Operations: The automated system saves staff time and reduces administrative burden associated with managing access requirements.
- Enhanced Reputation: Bristol Old Vic demonstrates its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, strengthening its relationship with disabled patrons.
Metrics:
- Increase of 11% in average ticket yield
- - Slight increase in web sales (61% from 60%) and a reduction in counter (in person) sales from 14% to 11%)
Key Features of the Integration:
- Access Card Linking: Customers can seamlessly link their Access Cards to their online accounts.
- Automated Data Transfer: Access needs are automatically populated in the Spektrix system, eliminating manual entry and potential errors.
- Real-time Availability: Accessible seating options are displayed in real-time during the booking process.
- Simplified Booking: Customers can easily identify and purchase the tickets that best meet their needs.
No Costs:
- Free NOS Access:Nimbus offers all venues, irrespective of size access to NOS free of charge
- Access never behind a paywall: Patrons have the choice of paying for an Access Card usable nationwide, or registering for a Digital Access Pass for the Old Vic free of charge
- Freemium registrations: Nimbus offers the ‘in house’ DAP registration scheme as a freemium service for venues who are unlikely to successfully process 100 new registrations each month
- Reach New Audiences: Free directory listing with www.accesscard.online reaching c. 1.5 Million Unique visitors each year
Results:
- Increased Online Bookings: Disabled patrons are empowered to book tickets online, leading to a rise in online sales.
- Improved Customer Satisfaction: The streamlined process has enhanced the overall booking experience for disabled customers.
- Greater Efficiency: Staff can focus on other tasks, improving operational efficiency.
- Stronger Community Engagement: The initiative has fostered a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all theatregoers.
Conclusion:
The integration of Nimbus NOS into the Spektrix system at Bristol Old Vic has proven to be a successful initiative, improving accessibility and the overall customer experience for disabled patrons. By embracing innovative technology, the theatre has reinforced its commitment to inclusivity and set a positive example for other arts organizations.
Click here to get your business involved https://www.accesscard.online/get-your-business-involved/