Gloucester Rugby invests in tech to enhance match-day experience
Gloucester Rugby wants to improve match day experiences for 250,000 fans, by investing in new technology, with the help of Cheltenham technology firm, Emerge Digital.
Having previously relied on a dated, legacy IT system which was unable to integrate with new technologies, Gloucester Rugby has modernised its digital infrastructure. Emerge Digital has installed a new, high-tech, highly resilient Cisco Meraki network that gives the club massive opportunities for the expansion of its IP requirements, scaling in line with the club’s technology needs, as well as new security, all of which will improve the club’s IT resiliency and capability.
The new network will support the Club’s vision to move into a more data-led approach, better serving its supporters in the stadium and outside, through personalised offerings and improved efficiencies.
In the next three to five years, the club will also look to explore technology such as Internet Protocol (IP) TVs installed in all hospitality boxes and lounges, Internet of Things (IoT) implementation, and internal data analytics systems which would allow Gloucester Rugby to tailor its services and optimise individual visitor experiences.
Nigel Church, CEO of Emerge Digital, said: “As a long-time fan of Gloucester Rugby and season ticket holder, it's a pleasure to be working so closely with the club to create a significantly enhanced digital infrastructure, helping to support its continued development. The world of sport is changing, and we need to change with it. Sport, as with many other sectors, has seen a huge shift towards digitised ways of working, and it’s critical that teams no longer just compete on the field, but also across their entire infrastructure. This is business critical to the rugby club.
“The need for technology within sport and the desire from fans to be engaged by clubs all year round isn’t likely to slow down. Gloucester Rugby recognize the potential impact both regionally and within the sport, and we’re delighted to be helping them implement technology in a well-considered and strategic manner.”
Alex Brown, CEO of Gloucester Rugby, said: “Since the pandemic we have seen a rising demand for digitally enabled services to become a part of our matchday experiences. We know that there is an appetite from the fanbase for more technology-driven experience, and the recent implementations from Emerge Digital have given us some of the tools to deliver this, as part of our digital ambitions.“
