The Internet of Things has brought about great connectivity today by bridging the gap between the physical and digital worlds. IoT is not a single network but a collective work of devices connected wirelessly (within the network and with external space) with embedded sensors, processors, and transceivers.
It has contributed to the growth of many essential services, including Science and Technology, medical services, the Architectural Sector, Economics, Sports, and many others. In recent years, IoT has influenced the field of sports by transmuting the Coach’s performance, the Player’s performance, and most importantly, the fan’s experience.
How IoT Is Enhancing the Fan’s Experience
The Internet of Things (IoT) has changed the fans’ experience through the evolution of Smart Stadiums. Before this, fans of the highest-paid soccer players or other athletes come to the stadium to experience games in real time and cheer up their favourite players. However, fans’ experience has evolved; it has become more interactive and global because of technology.
Smart stadiums entail excellent connectivity, which has been made possible by the development of 5G connectivity and Wi-fi, to mention a few. 5G connectivity and Wi-fi in the stadiums help the fans easily connect with their mobile phones to the club’s app for different camera views, additional game shots, and virtual reality.
Smart stadiums have elevated the experience of fans through the method of obtaining tickets to games. IoT has made getting a ticket easier by making it digital; people can now use electronic tickets on their smartphones, saving time and granting more accessible access to the stadium. Gamification is another medium to engage fans and elevate their experience.
It means engaging fans in quizzes, polls, and challenges of their favourite games. Through smart stadiums, fans no longer have to leave their seat during a game to purchase food or drink; these stadiums have created a more convenient way for fans to shop, reducing long queues and increasing easy shopping without stress. Also, fans can check seat availability through IoT sensors before arriving at the venue.
The Importance of Data Analytics
Data analytics is vital in smart stadiums as it collects the fans’ data, examining their preference to recommend services and activities based on their choices. Based on the fans ‘ requests, the stadium app uses the data provided to recommend foods or drinks.
In addition, the Internet of Things works with social media, and this has also helped in the fan experience by creating a form of community for fans by creating live polls, sending instant updates, and many more. All these connect fans as they share their game experiences on social media.
Conclusion
The Internet of Things used in smart stadiums helps give fans a more interactive experience than the usual (traditional live experiences). It enhances their experiences with some technologies, such as smartphones, sensors, and other related technologies. Smart stadiums will give both die-hard game fans and casual fans unforgettable football experiences. Therefore, for fans, a smart stadium means digital tickets, improvement of live games, and more engaging activities.
