But anecdote will only take you so far. Say there’s a pool builder in the South who sees, on average, 30 percent of his leads turn into sales. As a business owner, he’s probably aware that his closing ratio is low, but he would only know that by reading stray facts and talking informally with others. Exactly how does this builder stack up against the rest of his region? How about the rest of the country?

That’s where “evidence” comes in.

Earlier this year, we conducted a comprehensive survey of builders, service techs and retailers. We asked about everything from aboveground pools to zoning laws. We then took the wealth of information received — much of it surprising — and created this special report.

The regional overviews are presented here online. For the complete analysis, which includes the results from our exclusive survey, see the November, 7, 2003 issue of the magazine.

Regional breakdown
Midwest: Raising the Stakes
Legalized gambling, affordable housing and an increased demand for automation spark sales in America's heartland.

West: Open Range
Despite the West's plentiful land, people and money, the industry there faces rising business costs.

South: Southern Exposure
Although the South faces regulatory challenges and a dire shortage of workers, business is booming.

Northeast: The Sky's the Limit
Despite severe weather challenges, the Northeast still ranks as one of the hottest areas in the country for the pool and spa industry.