October 26

4 ways digital stadium mapping is transforming the fan experience

4 ways digital mapping is elevating the fan experience

Written by: Wayfyndr

Posted: October 26

In the wake of a pandemic, when live sports came to a crashing halt globally, the sports industry – and stadiums, specifically – continue to ideate and innovate ways to attract and retain fans. From vegas-worthy half-time entertainment featuring cutting-edge video and audio, to state-of-the-art arena renovations and expansions, technology is playing an increasingly significant role in enhancing the fan experience.

But one of the most exciting, yet underrated, developments in this regard is digital stadium mapping, a tool that is changing the way fans experience and interact with sports venues and the teams they support.

In this article, we’ll explore 4 key ways digital stadium mapping is revolutionizing the fan experience and streamlining the journey from softa-to-stadium.

1. Personalized Planning

One of the most significant advantages of digital stadium mapping is the ability to offer fans a resource to plan their gameday itinerary well ahead of kick-off, tip-off, and opening pitch. With the help of responsive web apps, fans can access interactive stadium maps and event-specific floor plans at home and on the go, providing accurate and detailed information about what will be open, available and accessible at an upcoming or future event.

Let’s take a multi-use venue such as Crypto.com Arena, for example. A fan visiting Crypto.com Arena for a LA Lakers basketball game on a Monday may or may not have access to the same parking lots, concessions, merchandise stands, pricing, attractions, or amenities available to fans visiting the Arena the following day for a Taylor Swift concert. Floor layout, seating arrangements, and available merchandise and concession locations will likely differ from event-to-event, making it difficult and confusing for fans without an interactive map to plan in advance. By providing fans a high level of event-specific information and mapping well in advance, venues and teams can streamline the event planning process and deliver guests a personalized experience.

Event-specific floor plans, layouts and mapping.

2. Wayfinding and Navigation

Finding your way around a massive stadium can be a daunting task, especially if you’re visiting for the first time. Digital stadium mapping simplifies this process by providing real-time navigation and wayfinding. You can effortlessly locate restrooms, concessions, your seat, and even the quickest exit. This eliminates the stress of getting lost, allowing fans to enjoy the game without worrying about logistics.

In addition, indoor positioning systems including the use of QR codes, blue dot navigation, and beacon technology can further enhance wayfinding capabilities. By scanning a QR code to get a digital “you are here” location, fans can route to the nearest merchandise stand or the closest bar, making it even easier for fans to explore a venue and save time in the process.

3. Accessible Information

Another compelling benefit of interactive stadium mapping is the ability to highlight and communicate accessibility information and amenities to fans with disabilities. With dedicated Accessibility maps, teams can highlight ADA compliant parking lots, entries/exits, ramps, routes and elevators, sensory rooms, bathrooms, and seating, making the gameday experience accessible to everyone.

4. Reduced Wait Times

With interactive mapping, fans are able to explore food and beverages options from the comfort of their seat, finding the most convenient location. Smart searches and filters allow fans to refine concession options based on proximity to their seat, wait times, dietary restrictions, cuisine type, and even price range. In addition, through integrations with mobile ordering solutions such as VenueNext and TapIn2, fans can mobile order food, beverages, and merchandise without ever leaving their seat, eliminating the need to stand in long lines and miss crucial moments of the game.

This feature not only enhances convenience but also boosts the revenue for the stadium, as fans are likely to spend more when they can easily locate concessions and merchandise, and reduce the time it takes to get served.

Reduce wait times with an intuitive digital mapping strategy.

Digital stadium mapping is changing the game when it comes to enhancing the fan experience. With personalized recommendations, seamless navigation, accessibility features, in-seat services, and reduced wait times, the way fans interact with sports venues has evolved dramatically. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more exciting developments that will make attending a game an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a die-hard sports enthusiast or a casual spectator, these digital mapping enhancements are revolutionizing the way we enjoy live events, ensuring that the excitement of game day is now accompanied by the convenience and personalization that modern technology can offer.

To learn more about Wayfyndr’s digital stadium mapping and fan experience solutions, contact us today!

“Dutch Bros Concession” photo credit: Craig Mitchelldyer / Portland Timbers