Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events

Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Join fan clubs and loyalty programs for early access

Gaining access to sold-out events often hinges on getting in early, and joining fan clubs and loyalty programs can be a key part of that strategy. These groups frequently offer exclusive pre-sales, giving devoted fans a head start over the general public when tickets go on sale. It's also worth noting that many artists and festivals use social media platforms to share unique pre-sale codes, highlighting the importance of actively engaging with these channels.

While perks like discounts and special access can be attractive benefits of loyalty programs, they're not without their issues. Bots and ticket resellers can undermine the intended exclusivity of these early access opportunities. Because of this, staying engaged within your chosen fan community or loyalty program and being quick to react to any early access announcements becomes increasingly important to enhance your chances of getting the tickets you want. As these programs become more widespread, it's crucial to stay informed and active in order to maximize your ticket-purchasing potential.

Joining fan clubs and loyalty programs can sometimes grant you early access to ticket sales or special offers, acting as a powerful tool in the quest for securing those elusive travel opportunities. The nature of this early access varies widely. Some airline fan clubs may focus on boosting your miles earnings, offering perhaps 5 times the usual rate during promotional periods catering to their core audience. Others might prioritize access to limited-time offers or tickets for popular destinations favored by the community, while some exclusively focus on event access.

It's worth noting that the benefits from various clubs aren't always the same. While some primarily concentrate on special events, others emphasize advance access to ticket sales or specific travel offers for their member base. It's about understanding which aspect is most valuable to you. Being a loyal customer often results in special notifications about route openings or new flight promotions – an often overlooked perk that can lead to considerable savings. You might stumble upon promotions that the wider public doesn't even know exist.

Further, fan club membership occasionally extends beyond just ticket access. Exclusive experiences such as backstage passes or meet-and-greets offer an element of uniqueness beyond the standard discount. The idea of being granted unique opportunities and feeling like an insider plays into the very human experience of FOMO. You're not just a traveler; you are part of a select group with privileged access. Even some hotels are starting to reward those tied to a particular fan club or program, potentially allowing travelers to accumulate points more rapidly than through standard booking methods.

While loyalty programs have the allure of being exclusive, they can sometimes be exploited. The practice of providing early access links can become a headache for businesses since automated scripts (or bots) and resellers frequently exploit those links, impacting the fairness of the system. The race to acquire limited tickets becomes an even more interesting game in those situations.
Some researchers have pointed out that people within such programs tend to book flights at considerably higher rates (close to 70%) whenever they receive tailored offers based on their previous travel habits. That data can become quite important for airlines and can be used to understand how valuable these programs truly are.
The dynamic relationship between airlines and their loyal customer base keeps evolving. A few airlines have experimented with reserving entire blocks of tickets explicitly for fan club members, allowing them to get a jump on tickets for popular destinations or events. The effectiveness of these strategies varies, but it shows a clear trend of airlines prioritizing their most loyal customers. Membership often goes beyond just early access to flights and includes advantages from affiliated companies, potentially unlocking benefits such as rental car discounts or food credits at select eateries, adding extra value to the overall travel experience.

What else is in this post?

1. Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Join fan clubs and loyalty programs for early access
2. Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Set up ticket alerts and monitor social media channels
3. Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Explore secondary market options carefully
4. Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Consider package deals and VIP experiences
5. Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Try for last-minute releases and cancellations
6. Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Attend presale events or use presale codes
7. Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Use multiple devices and browsers during ticket launches

Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Set up ticket alerts and monitor social media channels

Staying informed and being swift is key when trying to snag tickets for sold-out events. Setting up alerts that notify you of changes and ticket releases is a crucial part of this process. Tools are readily available that can track changes on specific pages, notifying you if tickets suddenly reappear. Social media channels are also vital in the pursuit of elusive tickets. These platforms are increasingly used to promote events and, in some cases, even directly sell tickets. It's not unusual for a quarter of website traffic to events to originate from social media platforms.

Participating in discussions related to the event can be surprisingly beneficial. Many promoters share details about special offers or early access on their social media pages. It's a good idea to concentrate your efforts on a few channels instead of spreading yourself too thin across all of them. If you pay attention to the right channels, you'll likely increase your chances of discovering tickets as they become available. Staying engaged and informed helps you make quicker decisions and boosts your chances of grabbing those coveted tickets before they vanish.

Staying on top of ticket availability and understanding how events are promoted can be a significant advantage when trying to secure tickets for sold-out events, especially when it comes to things like limited-release airline routes or exclusive travel experiences.

**Leveraging Automated Alerts and Social Media:** Tools designed to track ticket availability, like Distill, can monitor specific parts of an event's page, potentially alerting you instantly when tickets become available. It's like having a dedicated observer watching for you, a digital assistant focused on a specific event. But keep in mind that many alert systems aren't perfect and some of them are susceptible to being flooded with false positives due to the nature of how they operate.

Social media platforms, while initially designed for socializing, have become crucial to how many events are promoted. Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be vital for getting insider info and direct access to tickets. Some data suggests that around a quarter of traffic to event pages stems from social media activity. Creating a Facebook event, particularly for smaller events, and inviting your network is a way to promote your own personal events and gain leverage through social relationships.

**Beyond Automated Tools:** Relying solely on automated alerts can be limiting. For example, while alert services can sometimes anticipate when tickets might reappear for sale based on historical data, social media channels often offer hints about unexpected ticket releases or early bird deals. Participating in fan communities and following airlines on social media can yield hidden benefits and insider insights. The conversations within those communities can sometimes reveal nuggets of information or shared experiences that automated systems fail to pick up.

The speed of action is critical. Studies show that timely notifications can have a powerful effect on decision-making and purchasing likelihood. In a competitive environment, those precious few minutes between a ticket release and its sale to someone else are crucial. Some companies employ advanced algorithms to assess purchasing behavior and personalize offers for individual customers. This could be useful information, but it's important to keep in mind that you are constantly tracked, and this information is rarely used to help you, but mostly to benefit the company.

Ticket markets are also increasingly being influenced by the use of automated bots that can sometimes obtain a large portion of tickets in limited releases. Understanding the use of these bots and the impact on ticket availability is crucial to developing effective strategies for securing tickets. This is a continuous arms race between those providing the services and those seeking to bypass the normal rules of engagement.

While tools like alert systems and social media monitoring can provide useful advantages, being aware of the limitations of those systems and remaining vigilant is crucial to maximizing your chances of securing those elusive tickets. Many aspects of the ticket market continue to evolve, leading to ever-changing landscapes that need constant review and adaption.

Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Explore secondary market options carefully

When exploring options for tickets to sold-out events, the secondary market can be a valuable resource, but it's crucial to proceed with care. While you might find tickets at prices lower than their original face value due to competition between sellers, keep in mind that ticket prices fluctuate based on demand. This often results in higher costs, especially for popular events like concerts or major sporting events. Furthermore, to find the best possible deal, it's recommended to utilize ticket search engines that allow you to compare prices and availability across various platforms.

Before making a purchase, thoroughly evaluate the authenticity of the tickets and the trustworthiness of the seller to minimize the chance of encountering scams. Also, think carefully about the potential advantages of VIP tickets or hospitality packages in comparison to regular options. These might provide a good alternative if the standard ticket sales have already ended. Navigating the secondary ticket market requires awareness and diligence to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.

### Explore Secondary Market Options Carefully


The secondary market, where tickets are bought and sold after initial release, can be a viable option for sold-out events, but navigating it requires careful consideration. Ticket prices in this market are dynamic, meaning they fluctuate based on a range of factors including demand, time to the event, and the seller's individual circumstances. You might see price differences of hundreds of dollars for the same seat depending on these variables. Understanding historical pricing trends for similar events can provide clues on the best time to purchase.


The secondary market landscape varies depending on the specific venue. Smaller venues with limited seating capacity often result in steeper price increases due to higher demand and limited supply. Larger venues, in contrast, may have a more stable price range due to a greater number of tickets being available.


Research indicates that ticket prices often peak shortly before an event, which can be a good indicator for when to purchase. However, there's a fascinating trend of ticket prices dropping significantly right before the start of the event. Sellers, looking to offload unsold tickets, might be willing to lower prices to ensure they don't lose their investment. Timing your purchase strategically could lead to significant savings.



It's crucial to be discerning about which secondary market platform you use because not all platforms are created equal. There have been studies that show a substantial percentage of tickets sold on unofficial platforms might be invalid. You should investigate the reliability of the reseller and carefully consider the buyer protections offered by reputable ticketing platforms.


Interestingly, studies also suggest that our emotional attachment to an event can cloud our decision-making processes and often leads to overpaying. The excitement of seeing a specific artist or attending a major sporting event might affect our willingness to pay a premium, overriding more rational pricing considerations.


The type of event also plays a significant role. Events that are widely publicized or those involving well-known artists often face greater price fluctuations in the secondary market. Recognizing the popularity and overall trend of an event can help you decide whether buying early or waiting is more beneficial in your particular case.


The concept of dynamic pricing, where prices change based on real-time demand, is increasingly common in various industries, from airlines to ride-sharing services. This same approach influences the secondary ticket market, leading to constant price adjustments. Understanding this dynamic allows savvy ticket buyers to potentially take advantage of fluctuating prices.


Research suggests that a majority of ticket resellers are primarily motivated by financial gain rather than their desire to attend the event. This understanding reveals that secondary market prices are frequently driven by investment opportunities rather than pure fan demand.


Resellers increasingly utilize sophisticated algorithms to evaluate ticket availability and adjust pricing accordingly. Being aware of these technologies can give you an edge in predicting price movements.


Finally, the geographical location of the event influences the secondary ticket market. In major metropolitan areas, where there's a larger concentration of fans and a more active resale market, prices can vary dramatically from their face value depending on local demand and the cultural relevance of the event.

Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Consider package deals and VIP experiences

When sold-out events are your target, exploring package deals and VIP experiences can significantly upgrade your overall experience. These options often present unique perks, such as backstage passes or access to exclusive, invite-only gatherings, setting you apart from the general crowd. Think personalized welcome packages or dedicated VIP lounges, offering a level of comfort and exclusivity that makes the event feel more special. While these options can heighten the fun factor, it is important to evaluate if the added cost truly aligns with what you value in an event experience. Essentially, you want to avoid paying a premium for something that doesn't significantly enhance your enjoyment. The process of evaluating these offerings can be somewhat complex, but with thoughtful research, you can find a balance between premium treatment and value for money, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable event experience.

Consider package deals and VIP experiences when aiming for those hard-to-get event tickets or travel opportunities. Bundling flights, hotels, and other components can often deliver significant savings. It's a strategy used by many businesses that leverages purchasing power, potentially translating into lower prices for you.

Sometimes, VIP experiences, while seemingly more expensive at first, can ultimately be more budget-friendly. These offerings frequently include extras like priority access, exclusive areas, and perks like free food and drinks. That might save you from shelling out more later for the same services.

Think of it as a way to get access to limited-edition events or travel experiences that aren't available through regular channels. This exclusivity can make the overall trip much more worthwhile than the original price tag might suggest.

Of course, you need to be aware of the fine print as with any purchase. Travel packages, much like airline tickets, are often subject to variable pricing, influenced by demand. Understanding when demand is typically at its peak or lowest can influence how much you can save.

It's also important to pay close attention to potential hidden costs within VIP packages. Things like service charges or fees for those supposedly included perks can sometimes increase the final price beyond your initial expectations.

Interestingly, research shows that those who participate in VIP experiences often have different spending patterns. They seem more willing to spend on unique travel or event opportunities. This speaks to the human tendency to be attracted to things perceived as exclusive. It also can lead some travelers to overspend when motivated by the "exclusivity" aspect.

Booking well in advance when exploring package deals can often bring greater price advantages. Studies suggest that booking packages about 3-6 months before your travel date could potentially save you around 20% compared to waiting until the last minute.

But don't dismiss last-minute deals either. Occasionally, hotels and travel providers will significantly reduce prices to fill remaining spots, sometimes leading to very substantial discounts below the normal market rate.

Certain travel loyalty programs let you gather reward points for purchasing package deals, which you can use for future discounts or perks. It's like double-dipping, earning points for multiple parts of your travel experience, potentially paving the way for free flights or hotel stays.

One thing to keep in mind is that there are still niche markets that can sometimes be overlooked by standard package and VIP offerings. Events that target specific demographics could hold the key to exclusive deals that might be missed by the mainstream travel market. It pays to understand how your particular needs might be best addressed by a more narrowly focused offering.

By carefully considering package deals and VIP options you can sometimes leverage these tools to secure those hard-to-get event tickets or explore unique travel experiences that you might not otherwise have the chance to discover.

Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Try for last-minute releases and cancellations

Securing tickets for sold-out events can sometimes feel like an impossible feat, but don't lose hope. One approach worth considering is to actively monitor for last-minute ticket releases and cancellations. It's not uncommon for tickets to become available late at night, often around 9 or 11 PM, as people change plans or cancel their attendance. So, keep checking those ticketing platforms, especially in the evenings, just in case something opens up.

Beyond late-night availability, certain venues offer same-day rush tickets for many events, which gives those who are willing to take a chance a shot at securing a seat for a good price. This might be an option if you're flexible and prepared to attend on the day itself.

Don't underestimate the power of social connections either. Networking with friends or engaging with online communities related to the event can often yield unexpected results. Sometimes, fans might be willing to offload their tickets at the last minute if their plans change, and if you're connected with the right circles, you might just get lucky.

The key takeaway here is persistence and timing. Ticket releases can happen at various points during the day, so checking back frequently can greatly increase your odds of finding tickets. Be prepared to jump on an opportunity quickly when it arises, as these last-minute tickets typically don't last long. It might not be a foolproof method, but it certainly can be worth the effort for those truly wanting to attend a sold-out event.

When it comes to securing tickets for sold-out events or travel opportunities, the last minute can be a surprisingly fruitful time to look. Here's why:

Firstly, a substantial portion of tickets, about 30%, are canceled within a day of the event. This creates a pool of suddenly available tickets, mostly during the late evening hours around 9-11 PM. It's a constant ebb and flow of ticket availability. It's often the most effective tactic for those who have the patience to keep monitoring.

Secondly, pricing isn't static for many events and airline flights. Prices are often adjusted based on current demand. So, that last-minute ticket release can sometimes offer prices significantly lower than the initial sale. It's a fascinating example of dynamic pricing. Many people aren't aware that prices can drop for these last-minute tickets. It's a hidden benefit of patience and persistence.

Thirdly, the refund and cancellation rules are rarely consistent between organizations. Some companies or airlines are more lenient about cancellations or exchanges. This can result in unexpected ticket releases that the casual searcher misses. This is one of the lesser-known factors affecting ticket availability.

Another aspect is the presence of scalpers and bots. They're not just human beings trying to attend the same event. Research shows a significant portion, up to 70% of ticket purchases for hot events, are done using automated tools and scripts that are extremely effective for securing last-minute ticket drops. You're competing with a well-oiled automated machine.

Furthermore, a large share of purchased tickets are non-refundable. That being said, if demand suddenly dips or unexpected cancellations occur, those non-refundable tickets can get released, often at better prices than initially offered. It's a tricky dynamic to follow but presents an opportunity if you're actively looking.

Additionally, many travelers rely on social media alerts. About 40% of last-minute ticket sales can be traced back to these channels. Companies and event organizers frequently post cancellation announcements on platforms like Twitter and Instagram. If you're not closely following these channels, you'll likely miss those hidden opportunities. It's a crucial strategy for staying informed and acting quickly.

You can potentially save quite a bit by booking travel last-minute, particularly airfare. Research suggests you could potentially save up to 25% if you are flexible and don't have a set travel itinerary in mind. This is a fascinating finding, potentially impacting your travel planning strategies.

Contrary to popular belief, some high-demand events have a surprising number of tickets available at the last minute. Around 15% of tickets often remain unsold even on the day of the event. This represents a potentially fruitful area for those willing to keep monitoring the availability.

Many venues offer standing-room tickets closer to the event's start. They're typically cheaper than regular seats, which can be a useful tactic if you're comfortable standing.

Lastly, the '10-minute rule' for last-minute ticket releases seems to hold true. Data indicates most of these last-minute tickets sell within 10 minutes of their release. Being prepared with payment information and your accounts already set up is crucial to secure tickets in these competitive situations.

Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Attend presale events or use presale codes

Gaining access to tickets for highly sought-after events often requires a head start, and attending presale events or using presale codes can be a game-changer. These exclusive events prioritize loyal fans or members, providing them with a chance to purchase tickets before they're released to the general public. Presale codes, often shared within specific communities or fan clubs, are a coveted tool for getting early access. Keeping an eye out for these codes on social media or by signing up for artist newsletters or fan club alerts can increase your chances of obtaining one. It's important to remember that, while a presale code gives you a significant advantage, it's no guarantee. High demand for limited tickets often leads to situations where even those with early access miss out. By being proactive and ready to act when tickets go on sale, you enhance your possibilities of securing those hard-to-find tickets.

### Gaining an Edge with Presale Events and Codes

Securing tickets for popular events often boils down to speed and access. Presale events and codes offer a significant advantage, giving selected individuals – usually loyal fans or members – an early opportunity to purchase tickets before they're available to the general public. However, the world of presales isn't without its nuances and complexities.

Consider this: research shows a substantial portion of tickets – about 70% – are typically snapped up within the first few minutes of a presale. This emphasizes the need for quick action and preparedness. Furthermore, the eagerness associated with these events can lead to inflated resale prices. Studies indicate that tickets obtained through presales are often resold at a 30% premium compared to their original price, driven by fervent fan demand.

There's also a psychological element to consider. Presales can trigger a sense of urgency, often resulting in impulsive buying decisions. Researchers have observed that individuals in these situations tend to spend approximately 20% more than planned. This suggests that understanding your own spending patterns and potentially setting a budget beforehand could be a useful strategy.

Social media plays a significant role in the presale landscape. A considerable number of presale buyers – about 45% – find out about opportunities through social media alerts and shared codes. Therefore, it's essential to engage actively with the social media platforms used by event organizers or artists. It can be the key to unlocking access.

There's a silver lining for savvy consumers. Several airlines and event venues bundle presales with incentives like loyalty points or miles. These benefits, if effectively utilized, can collectively contribute to covering a substantial portion of your future travel expenses, potentially reaching 15-20% or more.

Moreover, presales are sometimes strategically used to allocate a specific portion of tickets for dedicated fans or loyal customers. Data indicates that roughly 20-30% of tickets can be reserved beforehand for those who have maintained a consistent connection with the event organizers or brand.

However, not everything within the presale environment is flawless. Bot users, exploiting automated systems, can interfere with the process, generating frustration among genuine fans. About 25% of ticket purchases bypassing presale channels are attributed to these tools. Being aware of this challenge can inform your approach to securing tickets fairly.

For those inclined toward strategic planning, understanding trends can be helpful. Events hosted by similar artists or venues tend to follow patterns in their ticket release strategies, and analyzing past presale performance can be instructive in estimating the typical peak demand periods.

The venue's size also has an impact. Larger venues often release a greater number of tickets through presales compared to smaller venues due to their capacity. It's important to keep in mind these nuances depending on the scale of the event.

It's also worth considering the role of VIP presales. They have been found to sell out at a significantly quicker rate than general presale tickets, perhaps due to the exclusivity and additional perks offered. This might suggest that for some people and events, investing slightly more in advance to attain a VIP pass may be a worthwhile tactic.

In summary, presales offer a valuable path to gaining access to sought-after events. By being mindful of these characteristics – the rush for early tickets, the influence of social media, and the dynamics of the presale market – you can refine your strategies and potentially improve your chances of securing those tickets before they disappear.

Insider Tips 7 Strategies to Secure Tickets for Sold-Out Events - Use multiple devices and browsers during ticket launches

When highly sought-after tickets go on sale, having multiple devices and browsers at the ready can significantly boost your chances of securing them. Since many ticket sellers only allow one browser window per device, using multiple devices lets you essentially queue up in several places simultaneously. This can be a game changer during a high-demand ticket release.

Working with friends can amplify this tactic. By coordinating with friends, you gain access to a wider pool of devices and accounts, creating multiple entry points into the virtual queues. Each device acts as a separate opportunity to grab tickets.

Furthermore, don't just stick to the same search every time. Explore different browser combinations and search for ticket options using varied section numbers and prices. By diversifying your searches, you may discover availability that might otherwise be overlooked.

Finally, it's beneficial to ensure your devices are prepared and optimized for a smooth ticket purchase. Clear your browsing data before the sale begins to avoid any unexpected technical hiccups. A clean browsing environment can help reduce the chance of error during those crucial moments when tickets are released.


While these tactics might not always guarantee tickets for massively popular events, they can make a notable difference when you're facing fierce competition for those highly desired event seats.

### Exploring the Advantages of Multi-Device and Browser Ticket Acquisition

During high-demand ticket releases, leveraging multiple devices and browsers can be a surprisingly effective strategy. While most ticket sellers limit you to one browser window per device, employing a multi-pronged approach can significantly boost your chances of securing those elusive tickets.

The idea is simple: By using a variety of devices and browsers, you create a network of access points, each with its unique characteristics that can potentially enhance the speed and efficiency of your ticket acquisition attempts. This is particularly important during those initial moments when tickets are released, as even slight differences in page load times or caching behaviors can make a difference.

One intriguing aspect is that different browsers handle web data differently. Some load pages faster than others. There are also caching mechanisms that can speed up requests, particularly during busy periods. This variation can lead to an advantage when attempting to refresh the ticket page. This also means that relying solely on one particular browser could be detrimental, as you might be missing out on some of these minor, yet potentially important, differences.

Another factor is how different devices are managed on a network. Internet providers might prioritize certain connections differently, sometimes offering faster download speeds to mobile phones compared to desktops. In other situations, it might be the opposite. This is not something that is easily controlled, but it highlights the potential advantage of having different device types available, effectively diversifying how your connection might be handled by the network provider.

The role of browser extensions should not be overlooked. Some browser add-ons can streamline the ticket purchasing process by changing how the webpage renders or by automating parts of the process. These extensions can vary in how they impact ticket purchases, but the potential benefits are real. The trade-off is that these extensions can also create unintended complications or potentially lead to data privacy concerns.

It's worth considering that the way websites track users can play a role. Session cookies, often used by websites to track and identify you, can be disrupted when multiple devices and browsers are used. These disruptions can occasionally lead to unexpected opportunities for ticket access, showcasing a counterintuitive approach to securing tickets.

In addition to technical aspects, you should keep in mind that websites sometimes adapt their offers based on the device you are using. You might find that mobile offers are different from desktop offers. This could stem from things like user segmentation, where specific device users are targeted with promotions or specific ticket types.

A more fundamental aspect is how screen sizes and resolutions impact your ticket acquisition efforts. A smaller screen might lead to a faster refresh rate or reduced processing burden, which, in some cases, could translate into quicker interactions with the ticket server. This is not something that's usually considered during a ticket purchase, but if speed is a concern, then it might make sense to use a smaller device during the peak purchase periods.

It's also a possibility that geographic location is a factor. If you have devices connected to different networks, like a Wi-Fi and a mobile network, your location can change how a ticket server responds to your request. Certain platforms might make tickets visible only if your connection originates from a specific location.

It's worth considering that websites might be optimized for certain browsers. A webpage that runs smoothly on one browser can be slow and erratic on another. Websites evolve over time, and a particular browser version might be best-suited to your specific goals. Staying up-to-date with browser releases might be part of a more strategic approach to the ticket purchasing process.

Finally, the simple act of coordinating multiple devices and browsers can introduce a psychological element into the process. Feeling more in control of the situation could improve your decision-making speed, which can be beneficial when ticket availability is fleeting.

The pursuit of tickets for popular events often requires a mix of technological insight and psychological awareness. The multi-device and multi-browser approach is an intriguing aspect of this process, highlighting that small, often overlooked details, can play a critical role in the pursuit of securing those hard-to-get tickets.