Vikings announce VenueNext as creator of new stadium app

The Minnesota Vikings hired Santa Clara, Calif.-based VenueNext to create an integrated app for U.S. Bank Stadium aimed at giving fans a seamless gameday experience that could start in their driveways and direct them to beer, food and restrooms.

The stadium is now less than four months from opening in time for the 2016 Vikings' season. VenueNext is creating the platform that integrates all sorts of information and help for fans as well as "robust video content." It's the latter that will make the app unique among NFL teams.

The new app will include information about tickets and concessions to allow fans to upgrade seats, order and pay for food while avoiding lines. The app will be able to help fans avoid lines at restrooms, order customized merchandise and find open parking spots.

Team owner/president Mark Wilf said the goal is always about providing top-flight gameday experience and "developing deeper engagement" with all Vikings fans."

The app will be available in time for the 2016 NFL draft.

The app is one piece of the technology infrastructure at the stadium which will have 13 high definition video and ribbon boards, the most in the league. About 2,000 high-definition televisions will be on view throughout the stadium to keep fans connected to the field.

CenturyLink is installing 1,300 Wi-Fi access points including clam shells in handrails that ensure connectivity.

The venue will also have a distributed antenna system so all major wireless carriers have equal access.

VenueNext's app will provide team owners with lots of data on fan behavior.

The Vikings are the third NFL team to partner with VenueNext, which was named as one of the top 10 most innovative companies in sports by Fast Company in 2015.

Rochelle Olson • 612-673-1747

Twitter: @rochelleolson