Industry heavyweights in casino technology from Aristocrat, IGT, Light & Wonder and CasinoTrac took part in a panel discussion focused on the evolving role of IT in casino gaming operations.
On Monday, the high-level execs reunited in Las Vegas at the TribalNet Conference & Tradeshow to discuss the present and future technology aimed at casino gaming systems as well as the threat of cyberattacks.
The panel discussion was moderated by Patrick Tinklenberg, who is the vice president of IT at Sycuan Casino, along with Virgil Debrosse, Chickasaw Nation’s IT senior account manager.
The panel covered a range of emerging trends in the casino tech sector.
Jon Wolfe, president of global systems and services at Light & Wonder, highlighted how IT has shifted from a back-end support role to a key driver of business outcomes.
This is an exciting time in the industry to be in systems, Post-COVID, IT is becoming an enabler of business achievements
The discussion also touched on how data is shaping the future of gaming. Chad Hoehne, chief executive officer and president of CasinoTrac, emphasized the importance of leveraging real-time data to enhance the player experience and aid decision-making.
Ramya Pulipati, senior director of product management/global casino systems for IGT, added that digital transformation and artificial intelligence are central to this effort.
Data is key. We’re seeing emerging technologies utilize data to drive decisions
As platforms like igaming, social gaming, and sports betting converge, Wolfe noted, the customer experience is becoming more integrated.
We’re seeing emerging technologies that utilize data to take the step and help with decision making
Mobile devices are also a focus for the future, according to Ted Keenan, Aristocrat’s vice president of gaming systems and product management.
He pointed out that mobile engagement allows casinos to stay connected with players both on and off the gaming floor.
That’s going to enable that convergence. That’s the excitement we’re looking forward to.
Cybersecurity was another critical topic, as tribal casinos and Las Vegas properties have faced ransomware attacks.
Hoehne stressed the need for systems that can continue operating even when under attack, in environments “invaded with nasty things like ransomware”.
It’s critical for us to find a way to continue to operate that gaming floor when that virus is inside the network
Another important topic was the push for players to enroll in cashless gameplay. Pulipati spoke about the push to simplify the way players enroll in cashless gaming and move their funds around, with enhanced availability needed in all aspects of a casino.
Wolfe commented that they were offering more cardless-connect opportunities on the casino floor, along with near-field communications at the slot machines and tables, both driving numerous cashless solutions and cashless without a wallet.
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