In 2019, AFC Ajax sought a new digital strategy. They aimed to create the ultimate digital football experience for Ajax fans – before, during, and after the game.
The club searched for a digital partner to collaborate on a new digital landscape. Their choice? Hypersolid.
Ajax fans, like modern consumers, expect mobile control and access to everything. So, the digital Ajax experience became mobile-centric. Storing, securing, and always having entrance tickets available was the key feature. Additionally, the app aimed to provide fans with the latest Ajax news, merchandise purchasing options, and a deep connection to the club. Thus, the collaboration with AFC Ajax began with the development of a new mobile app.
Prioritize convenience and connectionThe new app provides users access to their profile data, the complete match schedule, and real-time Ajax news. However, the standout feature is mobile tickets, which proved to be extremely valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic when Ajax had to know exactly who had been in the stadium and when. Visitor registration through the app made this process easy and user-friendly. Additionally, we introduced ticket resale, allowing season ticket holders to easily sell their tickets when unable to attend a match. The app also features a live scoreboard and the option to vote for the Player of the Match, generating a lot of engagement and connection between fans.
Modernize system architectureIn early 2019, the CMS behind Ajax.nl was very outdated, hindering extensions and modifications. Numerous backend systems, including the ticketing system, fan shop, CRM for My Ajax, and separate websites for business and partnerships, created integration challenges. To streamline content management, we introduced a new CMS and website, integrating them with the app for a more efficient process.
Integrate additional revenue streamsOnce fans purchase a ticket through the Ajax app, their next desire is often to buy merchandise like scarves or shirts. By improving the integration of the online fan shop, we generated additional revenue. We implemented a recommendation engine across the app, website, and fan shop, ensuring the right merchandise was presented at the right time.
The makings of success
Agile, flexible and targeted
In terms of agility and flexibility, Ajax and Hypersolid are very evenly matched, which proved beneficial during times of remote work, video meetings, and empty offices. Development took place at our office, with our dedicated multidisciplinary team maintaining constant communication. This allowed us to speed up internally, while still keeping all eyes on the common goal.
Data as guide to the future
A vast number of users have registered on the new app and website, exceeding our project objectives by 100%. This data will be instrumental in enhancing the user experience and driving even greater revenue from the app and site in the years ahead.
Believe the hype
Our team was largely composed up of Ajax fanatics. This allowed us to empathize with the emotions and experiences of true fans.
Solid change starts here
Contact us and let's get started.