IBM × ARAMCO Golf Activation (proposal)


30 Oct – 24 Nov 2023

About IBM × ARAMCO Innovation Hub Riyadh

Aramco and IBM announced plans for a strategic collaboration to establish an Innovation Hub in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The collaboration aims to support high-tech driven economic growth in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia leveraging emerging technologies in hybrid cloud, AI, and quantum computing to address objectives including circular economy, materials science, supply chain, sustainability, security, and digitisation.

The planned Innovation Hub aims to bring together IBM Consulting and Technology experts to work alongside Aramco experts in identifying novel and potentially impactful uses of technology, showcasing viability through an agile iterative approach, and then scaling these innovations.  This centre is one of the first in the region that will apply the IBM Garage methodology to co-create and co-develop digital solutions with Aramco and others in the region. 

For IBM this is an opportunity to introduce clients to watsonx. Given the popularity of golf in the region and IBM’s sponsorship of The Masters we’d like to use the golf as a way of introducing watsonx and its capabilities whilst creating a moment of connection and team building with colleagues and clients. I worked on generating ideas and designing the user journeys for the golf activation.

Watsonx × Golf Activation


Perfecting your swing
This activation invites users to showcase their golf prowess while unlocking the secrets to the perfect swing. The watsonx technology will measure swing speed, impact direction, and deliver personalised stats aimed at refining the users’ technique.

Here’s how it unfolds: Users step up to the tee and unleash their swing. Instantly, AI-driven analysis kicks in, offering real-time feedback and tailored suggestions for improvement. But it doesn’t end there. A lively leaderboard ignites friendly competition, fuelling motivation as participants compare stats and track progress over time.

By offering immediate insights and personalised guidance, it highlights the broader applications of AI in skill enhancement across diverse fields. It’s a glimpse into the future, where technology not only enhances performance on the fairway but elevates expertise in every arena.

Golf Putt Game
The interactive Golf Putt Game is designed for users of all levels, this engaging activation offers a fun-filled opportunity to refine their putting skills through a series of exciting challenges.

Users navigate through a variety of putting stations, each presenting unique challenges such as different hole sizes, slopes, and distances. With each putt, digital screens provide instant feedback while AI algorithms analyse performance metrics like putt speed, angle, and accuracy. Through insightful graphics and a recorded commentator delivering expert tips, users gain valuable knowledge about course dynamics and putting techniques.

It’s the perfect blend of fun and learning, offering users a chance to improve their golf game while gaining a deeper understanding of the role AI and data analysis play in sports performance.

Caddy 2.0: The AI Golf Assistant
An AI-Powered Golf Caddies, redefining the traditional role of caddies into virtual assistants equipped with watsonx technology.

The digital caddies leverage AI and data analytics to provide users with real-time performance evaluations, analysing swing techniques, shot accuracy, and course strategy on the fly. What sets them apart is their personalised touch; tailored recommendations based on individual strengths and weaknesses guide users to optimise their gameplay like never before. They’re also weather and course condition experts. By keeping users informed about environmental factors like weather conditions and course challenges, they offer strategic suggestions to navigate the game with finesse.

It is not just about improving user performance—it is about unlocking business potential. By harnessing AI and data analysis, this technology doesn’t just change the game; it revolutionises how businesses operate in a data-driven landscape.

Golf Vending Machine
This On-Screen Golf Game Vending Machine blends entertainment and education, offering users a chance to engage in virtual golf while unlocking fascinating insights into AI and data analysis in the sport.

Users step up to the touch screen interface and tee off, aiming to score points by hitting targets and mastering the virtual course. Each successful shot triggers the display of captivating stories and facts about AI and data analysis in golf. From analysing swing mechanics to predicting course conditions, users uncover the transformative power of technology in enhancing the game. The vending machine dispenses exciting golf-themed rewards after each play, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience.

The experience combines entertainment with education, offering users a chance to enjoy a virtual golfing experience while gaining valuable insights into the role of AI and data analysis in the sport.


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