Sports information technology is an evolving area that many are adapting to within the industry. It has been stated that computer technology and the sports industry had little correlations. Subsequently, with the change in modern times all aspects of sports are becoming affecting by computer technology (Merchant Circle, 2011). More specifically, Merchant Circle (2011) stated that “computers fulfill a vital role in improving everything from the performance of athletes to the management of teams and matches”, p. 1). In the sports industry today, computers are used to make scheduling matches more efficient. With the use of modern technology software, the computer is able to detect and prevent scheduling conflicts every time a change is made. These same software programs can also manage practice schedules for teams (Merchant Circle, 2011).
Computer technology also allows for increased accuracy in all sporting events (Hibma, 2011). Its main purpose is to ensure that games are played by the rules and fair. Through the detection of sensors, balls and players can be detected going out of bounds (Merchant Circle, 2011). For example, tennis tournaments have sensors set up alongside the out of bounds and service lines, which will give off a signal when the ball touches them (Hibma, 2011). Computer sensors are also able to detect winners in close race finishes (Merchant Circle, 2011).
Another benefit of computer software programs is instant replay. Digital replays can help resolve conflicts between players, referees, and coaches as to the outcome of a given play (Merchant Circle, 2011). Hibma (2011) explained that Major League Baseball (MLB) uses instant replay to determine if a ball is hit out of the ballpark for a home run. Most baseball stadiums are shaped differently, which makes it harder for the umpire to see if a ball was hit out of the park (Hibma, 2011). More specifically, “baseballs can hit an obstruction and bounce back on the field, and if there is any question about the validity of a home run, an umpire will go to a room in the clubhouse and watch the monitor to make the correct call” (Hibma, 2011, p. 1).Computer technology is also used at every sporting event in the form of cameras, which broadcast the quality of the event. Multiple cameras are used at games and set up all around the field or court. They are usually held up by a string and have the ability to move at any angle. These cameras are also high definition, so every minute detail of the game is seen on television by the fans (Hibma, 2011).
Social media and other online mediums such as Twitter, Facebook, podcast, and webcasting also makes it interactive for the fans in relation to the sports industry for live postings, blogs, etc. on games, players, and teams. Three G mobile technology also enables fans and supporters to download sports applications from various mobile devices and tablets (iPhones, iPods, and iPads), so that they can stay in touch with all things sports related.References
Hibma, T. (2011). How does computer technology improve sports? Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/how-does_5038490_computer-technology-improve-sports.html
Merchant Circle. (2011). How does computer technology improve sports? Retrieved from http://experts.merchantcircle.com/articles/How-Does-Computer-Technology-Improve-Sports/1026767
Photograph of cartoon 1 and 2. Retrieved from http://www.cartoonstock.com/directory/c/computer_technology.asp
Photograph of MLB instant replay. Retrieved from http://sportsfantalking.com/2011/08/14/baseball-rules-–-instant-replay-part-two-debunking-the-negatives
No comments:
Post a Comment