3Com Park Wireless Network Goes Live; 3Com, marchFIRST Debut First-of-Its-Kind; Fan Communications System During 49ers-Raiders Game
Business Wire ~ October 8, 2000 ~ 3:28 pm EST
SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BW SportsWire)--Oct. 8, 2000--3Com Corporation (Nasdaq: COMS) and marchFIRST (Nasdaq:MRCH) today unveiled their new wireless network at 3Com Park during the National Football League game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Oakland Raiders. Roger Craig, former San Francisco 49er, demonstrated the fan communication system that went live in 3Com Park's luxury suites. The system will be extended to other areas of the stadium later in the season.
The 94 luxury suites have been equipped with Hitachi ePlate handheld computer that allow fans to communicate with each other in the stadium and with fans watching or listening to the game at home through instant messaging. The network, designed by 3Com Professional Services consultants, also provides 49ers game information, statistics from other football and baseball games, weather, traffic and other information. 3Com and marchFIRST, together with software infrastructure provider TIBCO Software Inc. and content provider Screaming Media, are developing other applications, including e-commerce and video streaming, to enhance spectators' experience at the stadium.
"This network is a great example of the way technology can enhance people's lives," said Bruce Claflin, 3Com president and chief operating officer. "This first phase will allow people access to information and communication they want to have during the game. Later applications such as e-commerce and streaming video will complete the experience. We believe this system brings a whole new level of enjoyment to the fans."
Wireless solutions for entertainment venues are one of several initiatives developed by the 3Com and marchFIRST alliance. The companies formed a strategic alliance in December 1999 to develop, market and deliver e-business solutions that help business win in their market. On September 25, the companies announced their first jointly developed application, Contact Advantage(TM), a turnkey call center solution for small-to mid-sized businesses.
"Today's launch of the 3Com Park network showcases marchFIRST's wireless expertise and our shared commitment with 3Com to creating difference-making solutions," said Robert Bernard, marchFIRST chairman and chief executive officer. "Coupled with the commerce and video applications we're developing, this wireless network has the potential to transform the way fans worldwide enjoy sporting events."
The initiative illustrates the everyday benefits of wireless technology, one of 3Com's five strategic high-growth technology areas, which includes wireless, broadband access, home networking, LAN telephony and Voice over Internet Protocol.
Since the announcement of the planned 3Com Park wireless system in August, other sports franchises throughout the country have expressed interest. 3Com and marchFIRST also are researching other sports applications for their wireless communications system.
"We are delighted to be the first team in any league to offer this system to fans," said Peter Harris, president of the San Francisco 49ers. "Whether it's gathering statistics on the players or communicating with fans outside the stadium, the system adds to the enjoyment of the game. As other applications go live such as purchasing food or souvenirs from your seat, the experience at 3Com Park will get even better."
About 3Com Corporation
3Com simplifies how people connect to information and services through easy- to-use, connectivity products and solutions for consumers and commercial organizations. The company also provides access infrastructures and IP services platforms for network service providers. For further information, visit at www.3com.com or the press site at www.3com.com/pressbox.
About marchFIRST
marchFIRST is a leading global professional services firm that creates winners in the new digital economy by helping companies build visionary brands, business models, systems and processes. This multidisciplinary approach empowers companies to transform their business, drive innovation and become market leaders. Headquartered in Chicago, the company has approximately 9,400 employees in 14 countries worldwide. Its Web site is www.marchFIRST.com.
Note to Editors: 3Com is a registered trademark and Contact Advantage is a trademark of 3Com Corporation. marchFIRST is a registered trademark of marchFIRST, Inc. All other brand and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.
marchFIRST is one word, with lowercase march and uppercase FIRST.
CONTACT: 3Com Corporation
Barbara Woolf, 408/326-1375
barbara_woolf@3com.com
or
marchFIRST, Inc.
Chris Thomas, 801/257-7746
chris.thomas@marchFIRST.com
or
San Francisco 49ers
Kirk Reynolds, 408/562-4949
KirkR@niners.nfl.com
or
Coltrin & Associates for 3Com
Julie Barry, 650/373-2005
julie_barry@coltrin.com
or
GCI Group for the San Francisco 49ers
Sam Singer, 415/974-7247
Singer@gcigroup.com
13:07 EDT OCTOBER 8, 2000 |
