When discussing the importance of business software solutions, the National Basketball Association (NBA) is normally nowhere near the conversation. However, these two entities are making headlines, as the NBA has partnered with software heavyweight SAP to develop statistical innovations.
Announced by the two on July 25, the NBA has invested in a multi-year deal with SAP to use the HANA platform to develop an unprecedented statistical experience for its fans on NBA.com. By using the real-time data platform, the league can bring virtually unlimited amounts of official figures directly to fans' through their website.
"We are constantly researching new and emerging technologies in an effort to provide our fans with new ways to connect with our game," said NBA Commissioner David Stern in a press release. "SAP is a leader in providing innovative software solutions and an ideal partner to provide a dynamic and comprehensive statistical offering, as fans interact with NBA basketball on a global basis."
The NBA statistics team will implement SAP HANA to run the league's enhanced statistical offering on the NBA website, which previously was accessible only to NBA employees and select media members. NBA fans will be able to access large volumes of statistical information and analysis tools on the SAP HANA platform, which will enhance their overall experience.
On top of that, the NBA will also use SAP HANA to provide an unparalleled statistical analysis of the entire league's history to fans. The experience will be available on mobile devices through the NBA Game Time mobile application.
This partnership shows that business software and SAP HANA has a much broader reach than some people may think. Many enterprises can implement these technologies in a number of exciting ways and, by partnering with an SAP consulting firm, companies can take advantage of new innovations in business software.