Thursday, March 23, 2006

4. Scoring - How to Select a Trusted Online Sportsbook

4. Scoring

 

Before we go any further, here is an example of the scoring system that is used to rate a particular operation. We use this rating system throughout the guide to outline and illustrate positive or negative attributes of an online gambling operation. This is a brief overview of the system. We score each category out of 5, and then take an average of the total. This is an effective way to get a good comprehensive score, and will allow you to come up with a solid shortlist. From there, you will need to make a decision based upon the service that most meets your personal requirements.

 

4.1 – Scoring Methodology Overview

 

#

Category

Scores

1

Jurisdiction

A

2

Business Model

B

3

Software / Technology Services

C

4

Customer Service

D

5

Historical

E

 

X = Overall Average Score in 5 Categories

(A+B+C+D+E)/5=X

 

Scoring Legend

5 = Excellent

4 = Good

3 = Average

2 = Poor

1 = Bad

0 = Worst

 

 

Jurisdiction

Represents the region in which the online betting operation is licensed. The major factors here are the reputation and functionality of the jurisdictions licensing body, the enforcement infrastructure of the region, and the general level of corruption for the region. People should avoid regions that allow frauds to run free, and without fear of reprimand.

 

Business Operations

The financial stability and business model of the operation are for the core attributes of every organization. Look for a book which provides responsible bonus programs, realistic betting lines, has been in business for several years and provide a professional image and reputation.  

 

Software / Technology Services

A highly under-rated component to selecting a Sportsbook is the performance of technology. This includes the stability of the website, vulnerability to DoS attacks, interface ease of use, and the quality of servers / hosting company. Nothing is worse than placing a wager, and then seeing the system freeze up.

 

Customer Service

Customer service is perhaps the single biggest deficiency of many operations. Are the representatives available 24x7? Do they speak clearly without an accent? Are they helpful and attentive? One thing to keep in mind, customer service is an area that often gets overlooked until you need it, and then everyone wishes they had been more careful in their selection.

 

Historical

‘Word of mouth’ is the most powerful marketing method because people never endorse a service where they have had a bad experience. How long have they been in business? Is their license in good standing? Have they got a good reputation or are they difficult with payouts? ‘Where there is smoke there is fire’, numerous of complaints (try Google). Chances are you should look somewhere else.