Ticket In, Ticket Out (TITO) is becoming a hot topic in the Illinois gaming industry. For gaming businesses, TITO could have a sizable impact on revenue and the player experience. Let’s take a closer look at what TITO is, how it works, and the significant advantages it brings to players, gaming businesses, and terminal operators.
Understanding TITO
Currently, in video gaming, players must redeem any winnings or remaining balances from a Video Gaming Terminal (VGT) at a redemption terminal (RT) for cash. To continue playing another game, players must then insert the cash from the RT into a different VGT machine. TITO simplifies this process by allowing players to take their winnings from one machine and enter it directly into another via a printed ticket from the first machine. This eliminates the need to visit a redemption terminal in order to play a new game in the same session.
Why TITO Matters
Advantages for Gaming Businesses
1. Smoother Gaming Experience
TITO removes friction from the gaming experience. By allowing players to move seamlessly between machines without the need for cash transactions, it creates a more fluid and engaging environment. This not only increases player satisfaction, but it also could result in longer play times.
2. Increased Revenue Potential
With TITO, players are less likely to take breaks to redeem cash, potentially leading to extended playtimes. This can result in increased revenue as players are more inclined to continue playing rather than cashing out. Plus longer play times often results in an increased likelihood of patrons spending more time at the establishment–which could result in increased food and beverage sales.
3. Streamlined Operations
TITO simplifies the overall process of video gaming, which results in fewer touch points for gaming businesses–including Redemption Terminals which are a common point of friction for gaming businesses. Fewer hiccups in the management of the gaming experience means increased efficiency for gaming businesses.
Advantages for Players
1. Enhanced Gaming Experience
TITO provides a more enjoyable gaming experience by eliminating the hassle of multiple cash transactions. Players can focus on the games without interruptions, leading to a more pleasurable and engaging experience.
2. Convenience and Speed
With TITO, players don’t have to pause their gaming to handle cash. The streamlined process allows for quick transitions between games, allowing players to easily try more games without delays.
3. Hassle-Free Play
By removing the need to struggle with bills or coins, TITO replaces a point of friction with ease and convenience. This makes the overall gaming experience simpler and more enjoyable, which might be particularly favorable for new players.
Advantages for Terminal Operators
1. Improved Cash Management
TITO can help streamline cash management–from lowering the amount of cash in the field, to lowering the initial outlay of cash needed to buffer gaming businesses, to protecting against depleted cash reserves.
2. Enhanced Security
With less cash in the field, the risk of theft and related security issues decreases, providing a safer environment for businesses, players, and Terminal Operators.
3. Operational Efficiency
TITO allows for better cash inventory management, reducing the need for frequent cash handling and minimizing the operational burden on staff.
The adoption of Ticket In, Ticket Out (TITO) technology is poised to revolutionize the video gaming industry in Illinois. By offering a more seamless, enjoyable, and secure gaming experience, TITO benefits players, gaming businesses, and terminal operators alike. As TITO continues to gain momentum and approach approval by the Illinois Gaming Board, its widespread implementation could soon become a reality, ushering in a new era of enhanced efficiency and enjoyment in video gaming.
