Stadiums of the future

Now that the Cubs are out of the playoffs, I turn my attention to the fan experience. How does the experience of the typical ballpark affect the brand of watching baseball live?

Consider, if you will, a new trend in baseball – the Ballpark of the Future. Offering state-of-the-art amenities, these new parks are vying to become destination locations. These technological wonders will create the ultimate fan experience from the moment you walk through the turn styles:
• Provide faster access throughout the park
• Offer you any available seat upgrades
• Inform you about special offers
• Indicate the fastest way to your seat

And from the comfort of your seat, you can:
• Access the Internet, league and fantasy sites, games, and social networking applications that let you interact with other fans inside and outside the park.
• Watch personal instant replays and keep track of games in other cities in real time.
• Order food and souvenirs and have them delivered to you. No more waiting in line when you could be watching the next home run!

Other available options will include:
• Cisco TelePresence technology will enable you to have a "face to face" meeting with your favorite players and coaches after the game. Life-size images, ultra-high-definition video, CD-quality audio, and interactive capabilities create a unique, live experience, making you feel like you are in the same room with your favorite player or coach. This same technology can be used at the ballpark to connect with business colleagues, family and friends, and fellow fans anywhere in the world.
• Interactive digital signs will tell you where the shortest lines are at concessions, team stores, and restrooms; show information about special offers, ticket upgrades, and upcoming events; and display traffic conditions and the fastest exits out of the parking lot when you leave the stadium.
• Social networking applications capture the emotion of game day by letting you interact with other fans inside and outside the park. Chat with other fans anywhere in the world, blog, and add to wikis right from your seat while the game is still in progress. You can also share memorable photos, video, and other files instantly.

Check out some video of a few proposed new ballparks here.