I do not think it is news that many, if not most or all parks overestimate time. The problem identified, I think is not if or even should. No indeed, the issue at hand, in my opinion is one of innovation. There is no question that prediction of this kind is not an easy or simple process. Developing predictive algorithms never is, however that is not to say they should not try to be more precise. It is very easy to say, "it is hard we can't do it so we will guess." Accuracy for this issue is highly desirable, the level of precision is certainly open for debate.
Now having said all that, I will put my business hat back on and say, "is there a fiduciary benefit for effort expended?" I do not see a direct one, people, in general, will stand in line regardless. I am sure there is a point where the wait no longer justifies the annoyance and I am equally sure it is not as easy as "how long is the line?" If for no other reason it will be dependent on the person's personal patience and desire to ride the attraction. I expect there are other external variables, how long are other lines for other attractions, how much time does a person have, and if they have been on the attraction before. (just to name a few)
I expect a solution for predictive accuracy is only a statistical model away, but is it worth it to park(s)? I don't have this answer.
In short we should never say, "everyone else is doing it and it is better then (y)." No we should ask, what is the real cost, is the cost worth the effort, and what would be the gain?
