Using crowd-sourced data to optimize conversational sound levels in hospitality venues

Abstract

One of the top complaints about a restaurant is usually related to noise. The sound level in a venue can significantly affect whether or not a customer will return. Statistical analysis of the crowdsourced data collected with the SoundPrint smartphone app at more than 10,000 U.S.-based hospitality venues (restaurants, coffee shops, and bars) provides a comparison of the objective sound level data versus the patrons’ subjective ratings for conversational ability. These insights show a customer's tolerance for noisy environments can be highly dependent on the venue type, specifically when communication is important. The findings can also help venue managers know what interior sound levels to target when optimizing the acoustics for their venue, whether by reducing background noise levels or improving acoustical treatments, in order to attract and keep their patrons happy.