Cognizant to drive FA’s digital transformation efforts

The English Football Association has entered into a partnership with Cognizant, through which the professional services company will support the organisation’s new digital engagement programme.

The deal names Cognizant as the FA’s official digital partner. The company will also serve as the official digital transformation partner of the FA Cup club competition and Club Wembley, a premium hospitality offering at London’s Wembley Stadium.

The FA said the partnership would help the organisation to better engage players, fans and enablers in their football experiences, with Cognizant to develop and manage new digital solutions.

The partnership coincides with the relaunch of the ‘Full-Time’ digital service for grassroots football. The service is now available through a new mobile version.

The FA has also launched the ‘For Girls’ platform through the new digital engagement programme. The platform was created with Cognizant prior to the Women’s European Championship in the summer and features news, content and information for female football fans.

Russell James, the FA’s director of digital engagement, said: “This is the beginning of a long-term approach, which will be a game changer for all involved in the game from players, volunteers and fans of both men’s and women’s football.

"We will make the football experience easier, more enjoyable for all. By modernising our approach to match how people use mobile devices as part of their everyday life, we will provide meaningful benefits to the game, our partners and the role that the FA and county football associations have with the people we are here to serve and inspire.”