PatronScan makes bars and clubs safer with Startup of the Week
PatronScan is a tool that helps bar owners, nightclub owners, and other businesses to detect cheap fake id, flag patrons by other venues, and manage guest lists.
PatronScan is a requirement for licensed nightclubs in entertainment areas, according to James Marusiak and Alberio Bathory Frota, founders. This is done to ensure safety.
More from Marusiak and Bathory-Frota
What was your inspiration for the startup idea? Did you have an "ah-ha" moment, or was it a more concrete idea?
It was interesting to hear the venue staff complaining about how the same man keeps being kicked out of the club every few months for causing the same kind of trouble. We realized that it was possible to identify troublemakers by placing ID scanners in all clubs and linking them up in real-time.
What have you found to be the most challenging? What have you done so far to overcome it?
There is a chicken-egg problem. Our potential customers are open to the idea that our product could solve their problems. However, this is only true if everyone else uses it. It can be difficult to find early adopters for an information system because there is a perception of its value only once everyone uses it.
We have data that shows even one venue using PatronScan can immediately see a decrease in the number of harmful incidents at their club. Patrons have successfully invited potential customers to test it for a short time without any obligations.
Is there anyone in your company that has been a great help to your startup's success?
Our system has been supported by many people, including police officers and municipal officials.
What advice would your early-stage or new entrepreneur clients appreciate?
If you face obstacles or don't have a clear pathway to your goal, be creative. Invite others to do the same and find new ways to get there. Be determined. Do not be stubborn.
You should find a mentor with whom you can share all your problems and discuss how they relate to each other. Your mentor will serve as your sounding board and help you see the bigger picture when trying to solve complex and difficult problems.
Ask everyone for the advice.
What are you and your startup's needs?
Nightlife is highly localized. Technology adoption in one place seems to have little effect on technology adoption in another. Patronscan.com is a great resource for club and bar owners.
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