Whether your rodeo management software is app-based or browser-based, a Wi-Fi connection to the Internet is almost an essential item to run the software. Pulling data from the software, posting data to the software, providing updates to the members and spectators will require the ability to download and upload data. When your location does not have Wi-Fi available, your connection to the software database is gone, and you are on an island. This leaves you with scrambling for a signal. We have 3 suggestions.
Phone Hotspot
The first option, often the best option, is often the simplest option. The simplest from a technical requirement and the least expensive. If you have a cell signal, then you have a data connection to the Internet. Dedicate a phone and turn it into Wi-Fi Hotspot mode. You will want to at least set up a minimum level of security with a password only you know and then connect your device running your rodeo management software to the phone. The huge upside to this solution is that you do not need to transport any additional hardware. The potential downsides are you may have some areas where a cell signal is weak and your connection may then be spotty as well as possible data charges depending on the phone owners phone plan.
Satellite
The second option is both more technically complex but also more robust and can offer a great range of benefits for your rodeo admin and for your rodeo members and rodeo spectators. There are several satellite options available, including satellite Internet and satellite TV options, that can be deployed. Many satellite TV systems also have a low speed data option that is suitable for the small bursts of data needed for rodeo management software. The biggest drawback to these is usually the equipment is fairly bulk and setup may be time consuming. An advantage could be that the equipment owner likely has the equipment and service on a subscription plan so any usage is likely at no cost. A dedicated mobile satellite Internet service offers the most robust solution and usually include the broadcast of a Wi-Fi signal which can be used by rodeo Admin and also made available to members and spectators. These mobile Internet services will come at a cost, an investment in the hardware and a data plan, but most plans can be turned on when needed paused when not needed.
Go Manual
The last option is taking a few steps back with technology and is likely an option of last resort, but we also think it should be a back up option you prepare for when using any of the options above. A good rodeo management software system will have encountered organizations with the obstacles of no Wi-Fi signals and the inability to take advantage of the above options. The solution they are left with is to go manual, to use a paper-based posting of the draw and recording results on paper, followed by updating the rodeo management software after the rodeo and calculating results / standings when online access is available. To do this, the rodeo Admins must have the ability to generate all the necessary rodeo tools prior to the rodeo and print them for use at the rodeo. The draws, announcer sheets, judges sheets, scoring sheets, day sheets, etc. must all be available in a print-ready format.
Conclusion
Rodeo grounds are often in remote locations. The availability of Wi-Fi is not a key consideration when the arena was built or even the arena is old enough it wasn't even an option at the time. Regardless, a rodeo organization still needs to communicate to the members and spectators and to have access to the information in the rodeo management software to operate their rodeo. The options suggested above offer varying levels of sophistication, but still provide a good rodeo experience for members and spectators.