Interoperability: The Next Frontier for Venues.

Interoperability is key to modern stadium management, a feature that will transform the experience in these venues. In the digital age, stadiums are no longer just entertainment spaces but complex ecosystems requiring the efficient integration of multiple electromechanical and digital systems. Interoperability ensures that these systems—from lighting and CCTV to emergency management systems—work together to provide safety, efficiency, and a spectacular experience.

Inspiration from the Aerospace Industry

A clear parallel can be drawn with the aerospace industry, where interoperability is essential. In aviation, systems like the Avionics Standard Communications Bus (ASCB) are used to integrate various digital and electromechanical systems. These standards not only ensure continuous operation but also allow for evolutionary and perfective maintenance, extending the lifespan of aircraft.

“If it works for an airplane, it works for anything else” (Attributed to Fernando Abad, although I heard it from an engineer at ITP Aero).

The same principle can be applied in a stadium to extend the lifespan of its technological infrastructure, from security systems to lighting, adapting to future needs without requiring disruptive changes.

Integrated Systems in a Stadium

Imagine a modern stadium where ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software handles financial management, while a Venue Management System (VMS) oversees daily operations and incident response. Now, envision that both are fully integrated with other systems like power generators, turnstiles, and emergency doors. In this scenario, interoperability allows CCTV systems and IoT sensors to automatically alert the management system in case of an incident, which could then activate safety mechanisms such as automatic door openings or emergency lighting. Everything is connected and operates under open international protocols, enabling interoperability at all levels.

Electrical devices, such as lighting and actuators controlling ventilation or sound, can interact seamlessly with digital management and security systems. This allows, for example, a power supply failure to be instantly detected, triggering automatic activation of generators to ensure event continuity.

International Standards and Cybersecurity

Stadium interoperability must be based on open international standards. These standards allow for the integration of systems from different vendors, ensuring the flexibility and scalability necessary for the future. However, this openness also demands strong protection against cyberattacks. In a stadium where everything is interconnected—from security cameras to lighting systems—any vulnerability could be exploited, endangering the safety of thousands of people. Therefore, implementing robust cybersecurity systems is crucial to safeguarding this interconnected infrastructure.

Interoperability in Construction?

Finally, interoperability should not be limited to a stadium’s technological systems but should also apply to its physical construction. The ability to adapt a stadium for different types of events or to modify seating areas should be integrated from the architectural design. A construction that allows for expansion, reduction, or transformation of the space without major structural changes would be a perfect example of interoperability applied to the physical realm. In this way, stadiums could quickly adapt to new market demands, increasing their lifespan and optimizing profitability.

Final Reflection

At LALIGA , we implement solutions ready to be integrated with stadium systems. We integrate these solutions because we understand that there’s no worse scenario than creating information silos, which generate security risks, hinder efficiency, and complicate the "extended experience" that distinguishes us in terms of stadium concepts.

Is your stadium ready to take the next step toward interoperability?

References

Here are five links that support the points made in this article:

1. Stadium Spotlight: Connected Devices and Integrated Security This article by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) highlights the importance of connected devices and integrated security in stadiums, emphasizing the need for interoperability to mitigate vulnerabilities and enhance resilience. CISA Resource
2. Stadium Cybersecurity Considerations This resource from the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) provides insights into the challenges of securing interconnected systems in stadiums, especially regarding cybersecurity, which is a critical aspect of interoperability. NCS4 Resource
3. ICT Infrastructure in Sports Stadiums This paper explores the technological requirements for modern stadiums, including digital surveillance systems and ICT infrastructure, which are vital for efficient stadium management and integration. Eventiotic Paper
4. Plant-wide interoperability and decoupled, data-driven process control with message bus communication: The article from ScienceDirect discusses the significance of interoperability in building automation systems (BAS) and highlights the role of open international standards in integrating various technologies across different domains. It emphasizes the need for interoperability to enhance the flexibility and scalability of systems, reduce lifecycle costs, and ensure sustainable building management. This resource is valuable for understanding how such principles can apply to stadium infrastructure, where integrating multiple systems (e.g., lighting, security, and IoT devices) is crucial for operational efficiency and security. For more details, visit the full article: ScienceDirect.
5. Lighting Control Systems in Modern Stadiums This article explains how dynamic lighting systems, integrated with other stadium operations, contribute to both security and spectacle. It underscores the importance of interoperable systems in creating immersive and safe environments for events. Sports Venue Technology

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