#30 - David Garcia, Former SVP & Managing Director of Atlanta Hawks (NBA)
Jan 23, 2024
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Former SVP & Managing Director of Atlanta Hawks (NBA), David Garcia, discusses AI's impact on guest services. Topics include personalized interactions, Gen AI for hyper-personalization, automation vs. human touch, and the future of sports and entertainment industries. Insights on data-driven experiences, investing in innovative startups, and the challenges of decision-making in the era of information overload.
Leveraging fan data from multiple sources enables better decision-making and personalization in guest experiences.
AI and machine learning should enhance, not replace, human interaction to deliver inclusive and diverse guest experiences.
Deep dives
David's Journey into Customer Experience
David Garcia shares his career journey, from starting in finance at Disney World to working on innovative projects like the digitization of the park experience. He emphasizes the importance of luck and being open to new opportunities and challenges.
Using Data to Enhance Guest Experience
David discusses the use of fan data in improving guest experiences at the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta Hawks. They leveraged fan feedback and utilized surveys to make immediate changes and improve various aspects of the fan experience. Data was collected from multiple sources like sales reps, chatbots, and customer service interactions, enabling better decision-making and personalization.
Investing in Innovative Startups
As the head of the venture capital fund under the Atlanta Hawks, David focused on investing in startups that aimed to revolutionize guest experiences. The fund looked for companies that made experiences more fast and convenient, fun and unique, or more personal and helpful. He highlights startups like Arena, offering a connected fitness strength device, and Beef Bake, an app for creating personalized fantasy-themed images.
The Future of Guest Services and AI
David believes that while AI and machine learning will be transformative in enhancing the guest experience, they cannot replace genuine human interaction. Personalization is crucial, but the technology should enhance the interactions between staff and guests rather than replace them. He also discusses the importance of finding the right balance between automation and human interaction to deliver inclusive and diverse guest experiences.
Join David Garcia, Former SVP & Managing Director of Atlanta Hawks (NBA), as he dives into how AI and data are driving a paradigm shift in guest experiences within the entertainment and sports sectors. Explore the power of personalized interactions, the potential of Gen AI for hyper-personalization, and the delicate balance between automation and genuine human touch. Gain valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of these industries and how adaptability will play a pivotal role in their future success.
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