VIP Access to UEFA Matches, UEFA 2008
07.07.2008
VIP’s day at the UEFA 2008
A VIP guest attending a UEFA 2008 match could expect no least than high security and smooth access to his VIP seat....using Fortress’ Contactless Smartcards.
Selected to provide its Contactless SmartCard solutions and Project Management expertise during the international event, Fortress GB has participated in enhancing the UEFA experience for demanding VIP spectators.
Its Access Control and Time & Attendance modules were required and the project also involved manufacturing Corporate Hospitality Kiosks - at very short notice - with a view to offer a safer and more convenient experience for the VIP guests, in and around the 8 UEFA stadiums.
Security and Convenience of Access is all the more a priority when dealing with the VIP guests. In the VIP area, it is crucial for the organizers to have an up-to-date seating plan, so that last minute changes of plans - in case of no-shows - can be implemented swiftly. This is where Fortress GB’s technology proved ideal. In such subtle context, our Smart Stadium solution provides online real-time information about the guests entering the grounds. Upon their arrival at the stadium the VIP guests would scan their Smartcard at one of Fortress GB’s Kiosks. Equipped with an integrated reader and display, this kiosk is connected to our main Smart Stadium Module. Whenever a card is scanned the relevant information is automatically updated onto all terminals around the stadium. The stewards, equipped with handheld PDAs, were therefore able to lead each guest towards their accurate seat in a smoothly manner. Finally, any lost/stolen cards could be cancelled with Fortress’ system, to ensure an even safer event.
Security was also improved outside the stadium, before the VIP guests arrived at the stadium. The guests could scan their Smartcards on a PDA when boarding on the bus leading them to the stadium. Once again the guests’ information was then relayed in real-time, to the teams at the stadium, using GPRS network.
Advanced technology such as RFID Contactless SmartCards seems to be making its breakthrough during such events as the UEFA. Fortress GB’s track record shows there is real benefit to be gained from using its Contactless SmartCard solution to make such events function more efficiently. This also gave Fortress GB the opportunity to confirm its teams’ project management and support skills, since support teams were dispatched across all 8 UEFA Stadiums during the whole duration of the event.
We, at Fortress GB, do believe this will boost the deployment of contactless technology across further multi-venue, international events in the near future.
Key information about this project:
- In total, some 20,000 RFID SmartCards/tickets were printed
- 16 Corporate Hospitality Kiosks were manufactured exclusively for the 8 stadiums
- Hotel / Bus connection system was deployed across 11 local hotels
- The whole project was implemented within a time frame of 2-3 months prior to the beginning of the UEFA
About Fortress GB
Based in the UK, Fortress GB is a leading provider of turnkey, multi-application smartcard solutions and services, aimed at Sports & Entertainment venues worldwide. By combining its consulting expertise, innovative technology and certified partners offerings, Fortress GB offers Sports & Entertainment venues with, customized reliable solutions that can be expanded over time to include additional functionalities such as parking, electronic purse, retail and loyalty schemes.
Fortress GB’s Smart Stadium Solution is a flexible system designed to suit sports and football clubs requirements, and seamlessly integrated into their existing infrastructure. The solution is focused upon increasing stadium security and providing a unique experience for fans whilst maximizing Club revenues. It is the only stadium scheme that has ever won the prestigious Sesame Best Software Award.
For more information about our solutions, please contact:
Richard Pinnick - Global Business Development
richard@fortressgb.com
T: +44 (0)20 7874 1492
M: +44 (0)7967 480361