For this month’s edition of Industry Insiders, we spoke with Ted Keenan, vice president of product management at Scientific Games, to discuss the growing digital payments market, the importance of keeping the player in mind when developing new technology, and what G2E 2021 holds for Scientific Games.
Tell us about yourself and your role at Scientific Games.
I joined Scientific Games in 2007 as a product manager. As a product manager, I led the initial launch of Elite Bonusing Suite®, iVIEW® Display Manager, Web Content Management, and served as product manager for iVIEW®, CoolSign®, and other products. In my current role, I lead the product vision to deliver customer-first solutions.
Casinos remain one of the most cash-intensive businesses in the world to this day. What benefits does Scientific Games offer in digital payments that would encourage operators to consider expanded payment choices?
Convenience, security, and loyalty. Scientific Games has deployed a digital payments solution that is convenient for players who can access funds easily through either a mobile device or directly at the slot or table game for players that may not want to use a mobile app. Funds are easily and securely transferred from a player’s bank account into an electronic wallet. Scientific Games supports multiple payment providers, offering casino operators flexibility and consistency throughout their resort for financial services. Most interestingly, Scientific Games can link digital payments accounts and usage with loyalty programs. An electronic wallet offers casino operators new insights into player behavior and Scientific Games Systems are positioned to help incentivize usage and loyalty.
With payments modernization front and center in the gaming industry today, how has Scientific Games been an influencer in this market?
Scientific Games has intellectual property related to digital payments solutions dating back to 2006 and supplied payments modernization solutions for fully digital casinos in international markets in 2012. From the beginning, Scientific Games has invested in digital payments solutions accessible to players at the game, as well as on mobile devices. Further, Scientific Games digital payments solutions offer casino operators the flexibility to work with their financial services partner of choice.
This past year has greatly changed the gaming industry. How has Scientific Games adapted and what new trends and insights have you uncovered during this time?
For digital payments, in particular, the past year has presented opportunity. In gaming, as well as other industries, consumer demand and acceptance rates accelerated. Players expect low-friction solutions that are easy to use, engaging experiences that drive loyalty, and secure and safe access to their funds.
G2E is the launching pad for new technology, how does Scientific Games plan to make an impact at this year’s event?
Scientific Games will be showcasing our content and our platforms to support the content. Within Systems, the Unified Wallet digital payments solution will be showcased, as well as the SG Universe mobile app. We will also be showcasing new service offerings, products that are driving success for our partners, and new concepts coming to market.