At next year`s Cricket World Cup we will see the full-scale introduction of the latest in high-technology ticketing systems, the SafeVenue system developed by Dex Security Solutions, a full subsidiary of the Dex Group. The Safe Venue access control system is suitable for use at all stadium events and would no doubt prevent a repeat of the recent Ellis Park football tragedy.
Flexible ticketing system
Ticket buyers needs to select specific packages such as following all the matches played by a specific team, all matches at one ground, and a desire by the UCB itself that participation by spectators could be maximised at the smaller and less well-known venues. Conventional ticketing systems were inadequate while smart card solutions would prove too costly in terms of continued operation beyond the World Cup event.
The UCB also took a group of specialists to the Sydney Olympics so that the advantages and drawbacks of the ticketing system used there could be taken into account.
The solution developed by Dex Security Solutions, known as SafeVenue, makes use of a copy-protected two-dimensional (2D) barcode that is virtually impossible to forge. Even the ink used for the barcode was carefully researched so that it could withstand long exposure to the intense South African sun.
Novell features
The 2D barcode (typically the size of a normal postage stamp) enables a vast amount of data and information to be stored on the ticket, including details of the events for which it is authenticated, ticket number, seat number, name of purchaser, etc. The authorised holder can enter and exit the game as many times as he wants, but the ticket itself cannot be passed back. The computer system knows that the ticket has already been used for entry and the turnstile will deny access. Other novel features allow the ground to block off the sight screen seats after the final pitch for the day has been rolled. Rowdy individuals and streakers should also beware as their `package` tickets could be cancelled by the UCB. As a result of the uniqueness of the system, Dex Security Solutions had to design its own turnstiles and readers for the barcode.
The total system is now fully operational and ticket packages has been available as from July this year using multiple channels including call centres, the Internet, the grounds themselves and other ticketing organisations such as Computicket.
The complete ticketing system has been through several successful test phases providing confirmation that the paper ticket on which the barcode is printed would withstand extended use, including being folded and stuck into pockets and wallets. In fact the barcode can be read correctly even if a large portion of it has been destroyed or obliterated. No longer can corrupt officials be bribed to allow access, while the bane of ticket touts will be eliminated as ticket buyers will have no means of ensuring the authenticity of the tickets they try to sell.
For Dex Security Solutions and Dimension Data the Cricket World Cup will provide the ideal opportunity to market the SafeVenue system to other interested parties and both companies are making use of their international networks to promote the technology. Dex Security Solutions has a strong presence in South America and the Brazilian Soccer Federation has already expressed interest. Who knows - we may see the South African ticketing system used at the next Olympics in Greece!
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