Data Driven Decision Making with James Wheeler, Hayward Area Recreation & Park District

In an era of limited resources and growing community needs, park and recreation agencies must move beyond intuition to achieve measurable impact. James Wheeler of the Hayward Area Recreation & Park District leads this session on the essential role of data, evaluation, and metrics in modern agency management. Attendees will explore the specific tools and systems used to inform and prioritize resource allocation, new facility development, and program offerings. By grounding decisions in objective analysis—from community surveys to vehicle GPS data—agencies can better demonstrate their value and fulfill their commitment to providing equitable services to the diverse communities they serve.

Learning Outcomes

• Utilize Diverse Data Streams: Learn how to integrate tools such as community surveys, park evaluations, and attendance-tracking technology to ensure your agency is delivering what the public actually wants.
• Prioritize Resources Equitably: Understand how to use demographic data and facility evaluations to identify service gaps and ensure the fair distribution of resources across the community.
• Optimize Operational Efficiency: Discover how to leverage feedback loops and technology—including program user feedback and GPS information—to refine program offerings and improve departmental performance.