NZCIS & NTT DATA join forces for sports data innovation

The New Zealand Campus of Innovation and Sport (NZCIS) and global digital business and IT services leader, NTT DATA, have initiated a strategic technology partnership with the intent of realising the full potential of data-driven insights and innovation in the sports industry.

Through engaging in joint activities and initiating proof-of-concept projects, the partnership aims to expand data collection in sports, training, and all related fields. This alliance will also explore the lucrative possibilities of data monetisation through technologically innovative solutions.

NTT DATA is part of the world-renowned Japanese NTT Group, which possesses vast experience in the sports industry, having undertaken projects with impressive entities such as the Tour de France and Major League Baseball. Through this collaboration with NZCIS, NTT Group is utilising biometric and performance data alongside athlete profiles to enhance training efficiency and pioneer new experiences for athletes and fans.

The primary goal of this partnership between NZCIS and NTT DATA is to contribute to the ongoing development of NZCIS, stimulate growth within New Zealand's sports industry, and effectively contribute to societal development. This is to be achieved by generating innovative solutions across several areas, such as utilising cutting-edge technologies like Digital Human and generative AI, and improving customer experiences both inside and outside the NZCIS facility, whilst ensuring secure data analysis.

Other areas of exploration include creating a new community involving all stakeholders — from sports teams to media — using Web 3.0 technologies such as blockchain and NFTs. By analysing the data derived from these communities, new business will be created, making strides towards revitalising the sports industry.

NZCIS and NTT DATA are keen to utilise this partnership to become trailblazers in smart sports innovation. They aim to set a new standard in data-driven value creation and contribute to an invigorated and engaging future for the sports industry.

NTT DATA, Inc.'s Executive Vice President, Noriyuki Kaya, expressed that by closely working with NZCIS, they aim to jointly justify outcomes from solution development and business creation. "I believe this partnership will lead digital business innovation and development of the sports industry," he stated.

NZCIS Co-Owner, Malcolm Gillies, speaking on behalf of Kevin Melville, shared their mutual excitement for the future of the partnership. "With the support of the NTT Group, it is not only enabling NZCIS to be a leader in the use of technology in sport, but it extends beyond that to our accommodation, food, and beverage offerings to pursue the vision of a Smart Campus," Gillies said. He added that their innovation, research, and development would benefit their foundation member sports teams, both in performance terms and in exploring new commercial opportunities.