18th September 2023
How Technology is Revolutionising Football
The Champions League is upon us again, and as the lights shine brightly over football stadiums across Europe, technology is playing an increasingly crucial role in shaping the beautiful game. From VAR to GPS vests, the technology landscape in football has never been more vibrant. Just as we at Gemstone are always on the lookout for new and cutting-edge digital solutions, the footballing world is doing the same, and here’s an overview of some of the ways that technology has changed the face of football.
VAR: The Double-Edged Sword
There’s no talking about technology in football without mentioning VAR—Video Assistant Referees. This tech is supposed to remove human error from officiating, leading to fairer results. Yet, its implementation has divided opinions. While it has cleared up some dubious calls, it’s also led to moments of drama, especially when goals are disallowed after lengthy delays. Despite its contentious nature, VAR is likely here to stay and will continue to evolve to better serve the sport.
Player Tracking Systems
Once upon a time, a coach’s feedback relied heavily on gut feelings and subjective observations. Those days are long gone. Modern football training employs a range of tracking systems, such as GPS vests and other wearables, to collect detailed data on each player’s performance. Metrics like distance covered, top speed, and even fatigue levels are used for real-time analysis, allowing for timely adjustments. Just like our data engineering solutions, these tracking systems provide invaluable insights that can make or break a game.
Virtual Reality Training
Virtual Reality (VR) has transitioned from being a mere recreational tool to becoming an invaluable training asset for football teams. VR helps players by recreating game scenarios, providing the team with insights into opponent strategies. Just as we use industry best practices in website development and mobile app creation, VR in football uses best practices to optimise player performance and strategic planning.
AI and Predictive Analysis
Just as businesses utilise AI to gain insights into customer behaviour, football is employing Artificial Intelligence for predictive analysis. By feeding past performance data into algorithms, teams can predict future outcomes and player efficiency.
API and Data Exchange
Football, like any other modern industry, thrives on seamless data exchange. The use of APIs for data sharing between teams, broadcasters, and statisticians ensures smooth communication. These APIs can share real-time data about everything from player performance to weather conditions, giving analysts more to chew on, and scouts are also now making the most of the available data to help track down their next targets! A core element of our work is in data pipeline development, and it’s exhilarating to see some of the technologies we spend our lives immersed in being used effectively to enhance the sport that we love.
E-Tickets and Fan Engagement
As well as player performance, technological developments have also enhanced the spectator experience. Gone are the days of queuing for hours to purchase a paper ticket, most football stadiums now work solely on e-tickets, which you store on your mobile phone. Apps created by clubs offer live updates, exclusive content, and even AR experiences to enhance fan engagement. It’s akin to how a well-designed e-commerce website or mobile app can drive sales and boost customer interactions.
Bluffball
Technology offers many avenues for fans to engage in new and fun ways with sport. At Gemstone we’ve been working on an exciting new project, utilising the power of AI, combined with our love of the beautiful game in the creation of ‘Bluffball’! This nifty tool we’ve developed aims to offer a lifeline for those who want to join in on Champions League chatter but may not know their corner kick from their hat-trick. Inspired by our beloved ‘The IT Crowd’, our Bluffball web app serves up (sometimes) spot-on commentary for all the Champions League matches, enabling users to sound like seasoned football pundits. And to further boost your social cred during match gatherings, it also leverages real-time data analytics. That way, you’re not just bluffing; you’re bluffing with style and, dare we say, a good amount of accuracy. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newbie looking to get in on the action, Bluffball has got your back! Check it out at www.bluffball.ai.
In conclusion
While the essence of the sport will always be about passion and skill, new technologies offer tools that refine, enhance, and challenge the way football is played and experienced.
Just like in football, staying updated with the latest tech trends is crucial in the world of digital development. Whether you’re looking to develop a high-performance website, optimise your data engineering, or build an app, Gemstone is here to offer top-tier solutions.
So, as you cheer for your favourite teams this season, remember that just as players are gearing up for optimum performance, so is the technology that powers the game. It’s a thrilling time to be a fan of both football and technology!
Gemstone are a digital development company based in Hertfordshire, UK.