Discover the evolution of professional officiating, the weekly evaluation process and how the NFL identifies and develops the next generation of officials.
Before the 2015 season, the NFL upgraded the technology and equipment for the NFL Vision Instant Replay system, the proprietary system used in the NFL’s instant replay review process. The Vision Instant Replay software, developed by the NFL’s Information Technology group, uses the latest technology to help the instant replay process run efficiently and to minimize in-game delays.
This new technology was tested in July at the NFL Officiating Clinic in Dallas to ensure that the upgrades meet the league’s requirements. The objective of the test was twofold: train instant replay technicians and replay staff on how to use the new equipment, and make sure the equipment meets the league’s high standards for use in the instant replay process.
The training focused on the new software and how it can more efficiently present video for the referee while he consults with league officials in Art McNally Gameday Central (AMGC) at NFL headquarters in New York during a replay review.
This offseason, the NFL also upgraded its communication hardware at every stadium to create the league’s first-ever digital “intercom” solution. The new system will be used in the instant replay booth, in AMGC and for the medical review process involving the ATC spotter and team medical staffs. The new technology connects the various users and gives the NFL increased flexibility and improves communication at every stadium.
In week 2 of the 2015 preseason, the league tested using Microsoft Surface Pro 3 tablets in the instant replay process in eight games.
The NFL Officiating Department is also testing whether the Microsoft Surface tablets the league introduced in 2014 will help make the review process more efficient and reduce the amount of time game action needs to be stopped for reviews.
These upgrades continue to build on the advancements made in 2014 when the league adopted a centralized “consult” process where the referee and replay official at every game works with Dean Blandino in AMGC and reflect the NFL’s commitment to identifying technology solutions that benefit the game.
