You’re a sports management professional. How do you keep up with the latest software programs?

1 Subscribe to newsletters and blogs

One of the easiest ways to keep up with the latest software programs is to subscribe to newsletters and blogs that cover sports technology topics. You can find many online sources that provide regular updates, reviews, and insights on the software programs that are relevant to your field. For example, you can subscribe to SportsTechie, which is a leading media platform that covers the intersection of sports and technology. You can also follow blogs by software developers, consultants, or industry experts that share their knowledge and experience with various software programs.

2 Join online communities and forums

Another way to keep up with the latest software programs is to join online communities and forums where you can interact with other sports management professionals who use or recommend software programs. You can ask questions, get feedback, share tips, and learn from others who have similar challenges and goals. For example, you can join LinkedIn groups, Reddit subreddits, or Quora spaces that focus on sports management or sports technology topics. You can also participate in webinars, podcasts, or live events that feature software demonstrations, discussions, or Q&A sessions.

3 Take online courses and certifications

A more formal way to keep up with the latest software programs is to take online courses and certifications that can teach you how to use them effectively. You can find many online platforms that offer courses and certifications on various software programs that are relevant to sports management. For example, you can take courses on Coursera, Udemy, or edX that cover topics such as sports analytics, sports marketing, sports media, or sports law. You can also get certified by software developers, associations, or institutions that offer credentials that can boost your resume and skills.

4 Experiment with free trials and demos

A more practical way to keep up with the latest software programs is to experiment with free trials and demos that can let you test them out before you invest in them. You can find many software programs that offer free trials and demos that can give you a hands-on experience with their features and functions. For example, you can try out software programs such as SportsEngine, which is a platform that helps you manage your sports organization; Statista, which is a tool that provides you with sports data and statistics; or Wix, which is a website builder that helps you create your own sports website.

5 Network with other professionals and experts

A more personal way to keep up with the latest software programs is to network with other professionals and experts who can share their insights and recommendations with you. You can find many opportunities to network with other sports management professionals and experts who use or develop software programs. For example, you can attend conferences, workshops, or seminars that focus on sports technology topics; you can join professional associations, clubs, or chapters that connect you with other sports management professionals; or you can reach out to mentors, coaches, or consultants who can guide you and advise you on the best software programs for your needs.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?