1. Data ownership makes more sense for leagues and federations now more than ever before
The sports data industry is currently undergoing significant evolution, with momentum centered around two key forces: Industry consolidation and technological progress.
Industry consolidation, with recent examples including Genius Sports’ acquisition of Second Spectrum, the STATS-Perform merge, and Sportradar acquiring Interact Sport, is a natural stage of any growth industry. However, it is likely to lead to dominance by two or three major players, and an ability to charge higher prices.
On the other hand, technological progress is lowering barriers to entry and reducing the resources needed to create a sports data collection infrastructure.
As an example, improvements in automated computer vision-powered data collection mean that it is becoming more feasible to automate the data collection process from TV screens, dramatically increasing replicability of services previously provided by the major data collection companies.
The combined effect of the two forces outlined above means that, from the perspective of a federation or league, there is both the desire and realistic ability to own their own data collection and distribution infrastructure.
2. Sportec Solutions is an ideal partner to help leagues develop this capability, because it’s the reason it was created in the first place
The STS approach incorporates a flexible structure, including infrastructure setup, hardware configuration, personnel training, and ongoing technical support.
3. Owning your own core data infrastructure can act as the springboard for further innovation
Event data underpins so many different outputs and stakeholders. Owning that core infrastructure means federations and leagues have an opportunity to benefit from greater flexibility when working with specialist technology providers and integrating them into their own workflow, rather than relying on third-party licensees working together. This also means that federations are in a position to explore new technologies without having to factor in official partners that may change at the end of a three- or four-year contractual cycle.
4. Owning your own data collection and distribution infrastructure means federations can directly support and build closer relationships with their stakeholders
Official broadcasters, member clubs, media outlets, and commercial partners all rely on official data. By owning their own data collection and distribution infrastructure, federations are in a position to own and more efficiently commercialize those direct relationships, rather than relying on third-party organizations.