C&M Software Blog Big Data and Technology: Super Bowl Edition

This Sunday we celebrate the 50th Super Bowl. While the same game is being played on the field, major advances in technology have had great impact on how the game is watched, officiated, and played. Instant replays are available from every angle imaginable, players' every move is tracked, and the Super Bowl is now the mecca for commercials/advertisements. It's only fitting that the Super Bowl with the most technology ever happens to be in San Francisco, right next to Silicon Valley. So how's this year's game different? Getting Real-Time DataThis year the National Football League (NFL) experimented with RFID data sensors in equipment to track detailed information on each player. This data included things like a player's acceleration and speed throughout the game as well as number of steps taken or distance travelled. Teams used this information throughout the season to keep players fresh during practices to prevent overexertion and injuries.In addition to the RFID sensors, NFL teams are using tablets on the sidelines of games. Coaches are using these tablets to review plays on the sidelines and are also given the ability to access NFL's databanks for real-time data of game statistics.Smart Stadiums and Mobile Apps Levi's Stadium in San Francisco, home to Super Bowl 50, is one of the most technologically advanced stadiums in the world. In constructing Levi's Stadium, a concerted effort was placed towards providing high speed Internet to the 70,000+ fans attending events held at the location. Access points are spread throughout the stadium every 100 seats, giving fans one of the best Wi-Fi experiences at any stadium, anywhere.So why was such a strong effort placed towards this connectivity? To bring it all together with a mobile app utilizing big data of course. A Levi's Stadium smartphone and tablet app is available with some impressive features:Guides people to the parking lot entrance closest to their seats and gives step by step walking directions to their actual seatsProvides fans up to 4 replays at a time during the gameGuides fans to the closest bathroom with the shortest linesAllows fans to order food and drink from any seat in the stadium and it will be delivered directly to their seats. The NFL's use of big data and technology has helped various functions of its business and helped players, fans, and teams alike. Is it time for your business to jump on the big data bandwagon? Contact Us to get started today!