IP video improves on-site experience at Olympic venues

As the world turns its attention to the Paris Olympic Games, IP video is once again being used to optimize the experience in stadiums, arenas and other event spaces. The technology of Vitec It is being used to transmit information and live broadcasts to screens throughout the facilities.

According to Nicolas Quesne, Deputy CEO of Vitec, "hosting the Olympic Games involves huge infrastructure overhauls of the host city or country that require significant capital investments. This is why leaders from the private, public and non-profit sectors who must collaborate to host the Olympics are so interested in adopting reusable and reconfigurable systems before, during and after the events."

This is valid for all operational factors associated with the production of some Effective Olympic Games, but it is especially prominent when it comes to taking advantage of video content.

"Today, live event viewers expect video experiences that replicate the quality they receive at home, even when on the go and within venues. As a result, IP video has become critical for those responsible for building new facilities, as well as those upgrading existing ones," says Quesne.

Outdoor stadiums and indoor venues that host different sporting events, from track and field to gymnastics, are often huge. Despite their size, venues often struggle to meet demand for seats at Olympic events.

"As a result, even the most expensive seats can have obstructed views. By increasing the number of screens throughout the stadium, IP video can improve the viewer experience or allow people to enjoy live content on their devices, as Wi-Fi or cable connections can show live events anywhere in the venue," notes Quesne.

Signaling integration into IP infrastructures

In addition to offering moving images, IP video can be integrated with digital signage to display results and provide interactive maps, as well as orientation services for out-of-town visitors who may not be familiar with the local geography.

"This helps attendees find services and navigate various locations, which is crucial when hosting multiple events. However, what is most important is the role that IP video and digital signage play during emergencies," he says.

IP video screens and digital signage assets can quickly go from showing the action on the field - or promoting dealers - to displaying simple, intuitive messages and directions that can ensure the safety of the venue for everyone.

Well-crafted and designed emergency management notifications can work very well for attendees, regardless of their language or culture, displaying moving arrows and intuitive video iconography. Best of all, IP video systems can be managed from remote, centralized locations to ensure timely and accurate communication.

"With IP video, there is no need to physically touch each television or display screen. Everything can be controlled centrally, allowing those responsible to focus on content instead of technical issues when time is of the essence," emphasizes the Vitec manager.

IP video optimizes resource allocation throughout the life cycle of Olympic event management to offer significant economic benefits.

“The reuse and redistribution of IP video equipment in headquarters and cities provides lasting economic value.
and cities provide lasting economic value. Instead of throwing away equipment and other resources after the event, local and regional leaders can repurpose networking, routing, displays – and other aspects of IP video – for use in future live events or in completely different applications. This improves profitability and sustainability over time,” says Quesne.

IP video, he adds, is simply a more adaptable and flexible video distribution system than legacy technologies. It allows venues to leverage existing infrastructure and quickly reconfigure video configurations, minimizing the need for extensive and environmentally burdensome physical installations.

"It also allows the integration of various technologies and services, such as digital signage and interactive functions. These integration capabilities improve the overall fan experience while rationalizing the use of resources by eliminating the need for independent systems and equipment without duplicating efforts that would increase the carbon footprint of the project," concludes Nicolas Quesne.