With analytics, cricket means more fun, more business: Educomp IT Head Somnath Mukherjee

New Delhi: There's no denying the fact that the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 was one of the most digitally-advanced cricket tournament of all time.

Leveraging analytical capabilities, the World Cup 2015 was truly a fan-friendly affair, as analytics helped cricket lovers enjoy the ease in which they received live score and in-depth analysis. As Indian cricket fans are all set for the IPL, starting next week, Firstpost talks to Educomp Solutions' IT Head Somnath Mukherjee, to understand what happens when technology and cricket come together, and how this combination makes his favourite game more exciting to watch.

Today, technology plays a vital role in cricket and other sports. Data visualisation helps elevate cricket fans' cricket experience. In addition, data analytics gives the holistic view of the player and the team. "Apart from keeping fans happy, it also helps players and coaches have in-depth analysis of performance," Mukherjee says. He adds, "Analytics helps the team management understand their opponents."

Also, he believes that though ability and talent is crucial, players and teams can use anaytics to understand their opponents better, as well as identify and work on their weaknesses.

But does analytics also mean business? To which, Mukherjee replies, "In today's world when everyone is very busy in their work, fans follow ball by ball coverage on their smartphones apps, Web, etc. Hence to make it more attractive and user friendly, every such company that is offering online scores and updates have to offer a good analytics and predictive analytics to make it more enjoyable and informative to attract viewers. Data analytics given by the scorers during the commentary for the individual not only gives them the edge but also attracts audiences, and hence this is used get higher TRPs and get more business."

Given its applicability in the world of sports, analytics use in businesses has grown by leaps and bounds. Companies are already using analytics insights to change the way they operate or to improve their products and services. Agreeing to this, he says, "Analytics is definitely transforming businesses today. Corporate are using analytic and reporting tools to understand business and clients better; and take corrective measures to rectify the gaps to increase the sales and marketing."

In fact, Mukherjee feels data visualisation tools also help the top management. "Top management don't have much time. Hence, it is very essential to have all information tailored and made available in a single dashboard for helping the management take right decisions," asserts.