A framework to analyze skier's behavior with GPS in a snow resort

Abstract

Understanding the skier's behavior (including snowboarders and other equipment users) in a snow area contributes not only to efficient management of safety and facilities but also improving services. However, a snow area manager only knows the number of skiers who use the lifts or gondolas in general. We proposed a framework to analyze skier's behavior with GPS in snow resorts, which consists of two standpoints such as inter- and inner-ski slopes. We clarified both a transition of skier's choice in relation to ski slopes, lifts/gondolas and rest places (inter-ski slopes), and a movement of skiers in each ski slope (inner-ski slope). We found that the characteristics of skier and ski slope had more variety than the technical levels: beginners', intermediate, and advanced. Even if ski slopes had the same level, they had different characteristics from each other. The framework contributes to understanding the detail of skier's behavior and improving services.