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Making Waves at ADG

Oct 22, 2024

The Planning Process at ADG: Bringing Ideas to Life

At ADG, turning client visions into reality is an art and a science. Let’s break down how the ADG team takes a spark of an idea and transforms it into a fully realized project. 


Step 1: Understanding the Vision 


When ADG gets a project in their hands, the first step is all about understanding the client’s vision. Most clients have a clear idea of what they want—whether it's a new slide, a wave pool, or a kids’ area. If it's a larger project, clients might present a parcel of land and say, “Here’s what I have; now what can we do with it?” 

ADG doesn’t stop there; they dive deeper. They analyze user groups—who will be using the attraction? Are they local families or visitors from three hours away? Understanding the audience is crucial for tailoring the experience to meet their needs. 


 

Step 2: Defining Parameters 


Next, it’s all about establishing parameters. This means assessing the size of the land, understanding how many visitors the park can accommodate, and figuring out how large or complex the attraction can be. ADG’s unique perspective blends guest experience with operational efficiency. This ensures that both the front-of-house (where guests interact) and back-of-house (operations and maintenance) aspects are considered from the get-go. 



Step 3: From Dream to Reality


Transforming a client's idea into a plausible plan often involves some tough love. The team at ADG leverages their extensive experience to guide clients toward realistic solutions, especially when the original ideas may not fit the site’s requirements. Instead of outright saying “no,” ADG offers alternatives that still achieve the desired outcomes while staying practical. 

 

Step 4: Gathering Crucial Information 


One of the biggest challenges ADG faces is often the lack of a good survey of the site. Information about elevations, setbacks, existing utilities, and surrounding environments is critical. The more detail clients can provide about what’s already there, the smoother the planning process will be. It’s all about laying a solid foundation for the project. 


 

Step 5: Holistic Approach to Planning
 

ADG takes a holistic approach to planning, ensuring that any new additions enhance the overall guest experience. It’s not just about adding a ride; it’s about understanding how that ride fits into the entire park layout. Often overlooked considerations like restroom access, food services, and guest circulation all come into play when ADG is planning your park. 


 

Step 6: Establishing Costs and Timelines
 

With over 50 years of experience in the industry, our design-build model allows us to provide you with realistic cost estimates and timelines right from the start. Our extensive portfolio includes 550+ wave installations and 100+ design/build projects, giving us a wealth of data to draw from when pricing your project. This means fewer surprises down the line and allows you to budget and plan effectively. We aim to ensure your project not only meets your vision but also aligns with your financial goals. 


 

Step 7: Maintaining Communication 


Throughout the project, communication is key. ADG makes it a priority to keep lines open between the client and the team. A dedicated point of contact ensures everyone stays on the same page, reducing misunderstandings and aligning expectations. Having all departments under one roof streamlines this process, making collaboration more efficient. 


 

Step 8: Continuous Refinement 


The planning process doesn’t stop once construction begins; it’s a continuous refinement process. ADG regularly reviews and adjusts the plans based on feedback and real-world applications, ensuring that everything functions as intended. We learn from each project, building a better understanding of what works and what doesn’t. 


 

A Roadmap to Success 


The entire process, from initial idea to construction, can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the project’s complexity. Initial phases involve feasibility studies and financing, followed by detailed design phases. It's a lengthy journey, but with ADG’s expertise, clients are in good hands every step of the way. 

 

 


For more information on ADG, visit our website at www.aquaticgroup.com or contact us at sales@aquaticgroup.com

Aquatic Development Group (ADG) is North America’s most respected designer and builder of water parks and water ride attractions. For over 50 years ADG has been providing design/build and equipment services to more than 4,000 aquatic facilities worldwide. ADG has installed more than 90% of all wave systems in the U.S. with their patented WaveTek® technology and has provided design/build and equipment services to more than 4,000 public, scholastic, resort and amusement facilities worldwide, winning numerous IAAPA Brass Ring and WWA Leading Edge Awards.


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