Athletes are better at their sport today than they've ever been, and
much of the improvement can be attributed to an increased focus on
training and preparation. But another factor also plays into athlete
performance -- technology, specifically computer technology. Computer
software now allows sporting goods to be designed and manufactured with
maximum performance at the forefront. But that's not all; computers have
also greatly enhanced the fan experience as well.
Technology, in various forms, has been utilised in sport for many
years and plays a particularly vital role in elite sport. Some of the
thematic applications of technology include, sporting equipment;
clothing and wearables; facilities; competition adjudication and
formats; media broadcasting and communications; and performance
analytics.
A major trend in sports technology is toward real-time application of
devices that provide athletes, coaches, and analysts with immediate
feedback across a wide range of performance factors. Another trend is
toward devices that are smaller, lighter, more powerful and easier to
use.
Key Messages:
- Technology in all of its formats is playing a greater role in sport, particularly at the elite level.
- Technology that leads to innovation in sport can lead to the development of 'competitive advantage'.
- Technological advancements at the elite level may flow down to consumers and also used by the entertainment industry.
Design:
Computer-aided
design (CAD) software makes designing the likes of golf clubs, hockey
sticks and other athletic equipment faster and much more efficient. CAD
design software allows for the creation of products in a 3D virtual
environment. Also, CAD files can be transferred and input into analysis
and manufacturing software to streamline product development. They can
also be uploaded into rapid prototyping machines such as 3D printers to
create test parts.
Simulation:
After
the design and engineering phase of product development comes the
testing, or prototyping, phase. Traditionally, this was done by creating
an actual physical prototype. But thanks to computer technology, such
product simulations can be carried out on a computer screen in what's
called virtual prototyping. Simulation software helps test for design
and engineering flaws, from hockey sticks to footballs, so that product
development personnel can make changes easily and without having to
create expensive prototypes. Simulation software has accelerated the
development process of numerous products, getting new, innovative
products into the hands of athletes faster.
Fan Viewing:
Computer
technology doesn't just improve sports for the athlete, but for the
television viewers as well. For instance, media outlets telecasting
sports such as hockey and football have implemented telestrators so
broadcasters can break down plays for the viewing audience during a
game. In football, specifically, there's also been the implementation of
the "first down line," a line that is digitally added to television
broadcasts so viewers have a better perspective of how far an offense
needs to go to earn a fresh set of downs.
Fan Experience:
The
Internet has made it easier than ever for fans not only to punch their
ticket to their next live event, but to stay in touch with their
favorite teams. Teams and leagues sell tickets and merchandise on their
websites; in addition, sites such as StubHub.com have created a
secondary market for tickets, allowing sellers to connect with buyers in
a way they never could. Sports leagues and teams are releasing
smartphone apps so fans can receive updates on their teams when they're
on the go. Finally, many leagues and teams also stream live in-game
video and audio over the Internet for out-of-market fans. This video and
audio is available via desktops and laptops -- and, increasingly, via
mobile devices as well. Computers and the Internet have also largely
supplanted printed newspapers as the primary source for sports news.
