SEAT 2024

The SEAT Conference is renowned for gathering leaders in sports and entertainment technology to discuss and showcase the latest innovations. This year’s event, held at Resorts World in Las Vegas, highlighted a pressing need: creating unique digital experiences that captivate and engage audiences in new ways. i5LED, in partnership with Creative Realities, showcased various LED technology solutions and provided insights during the panel discussions. One of the highlights was demonstrating how different types and form factors of LED displays can work together to break the monotony of conventional designs, drawing significant attention and positive feedback from attendees.

The Demand for Unique Digital Experiences

In an era where standard solutions dominate the landscape, the appetite for unique digital experiences has never been greater. Traditional elements like scoreboards, center-hung displays, and LED ribbons have become ubiquitous. While these elements are essential, there’s a growing desire for more creative and engaging applications. Fans and attendees crave experiences that stand out and offer something different from the norm.

Monetizing Digital Displays: ROI and Engagement

Return on Investment (ROI) was a central theme at SEAT 2024. With significant investments in digital infrastructure, sports venues are keen to understand how to monetize these assets effectively. The focus has shifted towards measuring engagement and demonstrating tangible benefits. This involves not only selling advertising space but also enhancing the overall fan experience to drive attendance and retention. Advanced analytics and data-driven strategies are now crucial in assessing the impact of digital displays and optimizing their performance.

Breaking Free from the 16:9 Constraint

One of the industry’s challenges is the traditional mindset of designing digital displays in the standard 16:9 aspect ratio. This convention, rooted in the design of LCD screens and concourse boxes, limits creative potential. At SEAT 2024, discussions emphasized the importance of thinking beyond these constraints. LEDs, with their flexibility in shape and size, are perfect for innovative applications. These custom-shaped displays can drive higher engagement and attract more attention by breaking the monotony of conventional designs.

The Power of Creative LED Applications

LED technology offers unparalleled opportunities for creativity. By utilizing various shapes and sizes, sports venues can create captivating visual experiences that draw in the audience. From dynamic, wrap-around displays to interactive installations, LEDs can transform spaces and elevate the spectator experience. These creative applications not only enhance visual appeal but also foster deeper engagement, ensuring that digital displays serve both aesthetic and functional purposes.

Portable Digital Solutions

Another solution worth mentioning is the emergence of portable digital solutions. These versatile displays can be moved and re-purposed for different events and locations within a venue. For instance, a single display could serve as an information kiosk during pre-game activities, a live scoreboard during the game, and a promotional screen during post-game events. This multipurpose functionality maximizes the utility of digital assets, ensuring that investments in technology deliver the highest possible return by reaching more people at different times.