Sports and Technology Have the Power to Change the World

Discover how the explosions in data analytics, AI, and digital communication are benefiting sports and sports fans around the world

In Sports and Technology Have The Power To Change The World: Driving Positive Change Through The Use of Data and AI, the Director of Microsoft Sports, Jon Flynn, delivers an insightful new take on the transformative power of sport and its ability to unite people, break down barriers, and generate positive change. The author explains the critical role that technology has played in growing the impact of sporting events and enabling social change while fostering community improvement.

In the book, you’ll explore many of the ways in which sports, enabled by new tech, have made significant contributions to society and promoted individual development, health, and wellbeing. You’ll also find:

• Discussions of green technologies and climate and sustainability initiatives linked to sport, with a case study about the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics
• Explorations of the impact of advanced data analytics, with a case study focusing on the 2013 NBA Final matchup between the Miami Heat and the San Antonio Spurs
• How sport scientists are optimizing player performance

Perfect for anyone interested in the intersection of sport, society, and technology, Sports and Technology Have The Power To Change The World is an easy to read and endlessly fascinating look at how the unique combination of athletics and tech makes the world a better place.

Foreword vii

Introduction xi

Chapter 1 The Impact of Advanced Data Analytics 1

Chapter 2 Using Sports Science to Optimize Player Performance 13

Chapter 3 Social Media Takes the Olympics by Storm 25

Chapter 4 The Role of Biometric Tech in Shaping the Game 41

Chapter 5 The Impact of Live Streaming and Digital Media 57

Chapter 6 Digital Communication as a Catalyst for Peacebuilding 71

Chapter 7 Creating an Inclusive and Accessible Fan Experience 87

Chapter 8 Digital Activism 105

Chapter 9 Ensuring the Health and Safety of Athletes and Staff 117

Chapter 10 Green Technologies and Climate and Sustainability Initiatives 131

Chapter 11 ChatGPT and OpenAI 145

Acknowledgments 155

About the Author 157

Index 159

JON FLYNN is the Director at Microsoft Sports, where he spearheads Data and AI strategies to revolutionize the sports industry. His expertise guides leagues, clubs, and athletes worldwide in harnessing technology to foster deeper connections with fans, drive operational efficiencies, and optimize athletic performance. As a thought leader, he also founded and hosts the “Azure for Sports” podcast, spotlighting the intersection of sports and technology and how it shapes engaging sports experiences globally.

HOW THE SPORTS WORLD IS LEVERAGING EMERGING TECH TO CATALYZE A BETTER FUTURE

From Jon Flynn, Director of Microsoft Sports and a leading Sports Technology Data and AI expert, this book highlights how the global sports market, data analytics, and artificial intelligence are not only benefiting fans, but enabling social change and fostering community betterment at the same time. With real-world case studies and an insider’s take on what’s next for sports tech, Sports and Technology Have the Power to Change the World will give you a deeper appreciation of the power of sports to bring people together.

Inside, you’ll discover how important, tech-driven events across the world of sports have led directly to individual development, health and well-being, social integration, and understanding. From the 2014 FIFA World Cup to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, you’ll see how sporting events have been at the vanguard of sustainability, social justice, and beyond.

The potential for future technological advancements to continue shaping the world of sports—and, ultimately, the world itself—is huge. Gain a sense of optimism and inspiration as you discover how sports technology is leading the way toward building a better world.