“Henny Penny the sky is falling, we are doomed!” the Psychic shouted…. in jest. 

The Psychic is watching the news. As his fingers continue channel surfing, the lead story on each was as repetitive as a package of hotdogs: How will Congress regulate the use of AI (Artificial Intelligence)? What are the hidden parlous of AI? How many jobs will smart robots replace? How do we stop smart computers from taking over our world?

In his nearly eight decades on the planet the Psychic has learned that the population (and the governments) seem to over-react and resist change.

With the click of his thumb, the flat screen goes silent as the Psychic grabs his iPhone (the iPhone was introduced in 2007. Today 97% of Americans own a cell phone. 54% say they could not live without their smart phone). In a voice that his smart phone instantly recognizes he asks, “Siri (who was born in 2011) define AI?” Immediately several definitions appear. All very similar.

Artificial Intelligence (AI), the ability of a digital computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings. The term is frequently applied to the project of developing systems endowed with the intelligence processes characteristic of humans, such as the ability to reason, discover meaning, generalize, or learn from past experience.

As he slowly rises from his recliner, the Psychic hesitates…Instead of retreating to the confines of his study and placing the worn turban on his head and uncovering the crystal ball, the Psychic sits back in his comfy recliner and places his laptop computer (first laptop computer, Osborne 1, sold in 1981) on his lap. With a brief search he finds and opens the OpenAI website. In a few minutes he has established an account with Chat GPT and quickly learned how to make an inquiry.

After a little thought the Psychic typed: How will AI improve and enhance the overall golf experience? 

Almost instantly the following response appeared on the screen.

Overall, AI has the potential to revolutionize various aspects of the golfing experience, from player performance and training to course management and fan engagement. By leveraging AI technologies, the golf industry can enhance accessibility, optimize operations, and provide innovative experiences, thereby contributing to the growth and popularity of the sport.

1. Data Analysis and Performance Enhancement: AI can analyze vast amounts of data, including swing metrics, course conditions, and player statistics, to provide valuable insight for players, coaches and course management. AI powered algorithms can help golfers identify areas for improvement, optimize their strategies, and enhance their overall performance.
2. Virtual Reality and Simulation: AI combined with virtual reality technological create immersive golf simulations, allowing players to experience different courses and practice scenarios without leaving a controlled environment. This can provide more accessible and cost-effective training opportunities, attracting new players and encouraging skill development.
3. Golf Course Management: AI can assist in optimizing golf course management, including maintenance schedules, resource allocation and monitoring player behavior. Smart sensors and AI algorithms can help improve course conditions, pace of play, and overall customer experience, leading to increased satisfaction and repeat visits.
4. Customized Golf Experiences: AI algorithms can analyze player preferences, skill levels, and historic data to provide personalized golf experiences. This can range from tailored practice routines and coaching tips to creating customized course layouts based on individual player characteristics. Such personalized experiences can attract new players and enhance engagement among existing golfers.
5. Broadcasting and Fan Engagement: AI technologies can enhance the broadcasting of golf tournaments by providing real-time data analytics, player tracking, and immersive viewing experiences. AI-powered cameras and algorithms can capture and analyze shots, providing instant insights for broadcasters and fans, thereby enhancing the overall viewing experience.

As the Psychic re-read the ChatGPT information his head was nodding in agreement. AI is nothing more than a human brain with perfect recall and immediate ability to relate all current data with all past related data. He realized that AI computer analysis could create specific guidelines for player improvement.  But he never imagined that using a simulator, in a controlled environment, without a coach or professional overseeing and commenting on every swing, details of every shot could be recorded and immediately analyzed.

The Psychic had never worked in the golf management business. He had never considered resource utilization from a course management perspective. His mind was flashing from personal to water usage: from AI controlled range pickers to portion controls on the beverage cart. He was visualizing how the extent of service at private clubs could be improved if the staff was aware how Mrs. Smith likes her salad with extra croutons and Mr. Smith likes his white wine served in a large red wine tumbler. Yes, AI will enhance the overall experience at clubs who utilize the technology.

He was familiar with improving the tournament viewing experience created with the new app created for the Master’s. The Psychic is now beginning to understand that apps are only a fraction of the technology being created to make golf more fun to watch.

Yes, AI will be regulated. The regulations, designed to reign-in unscrupulous use by bad people, will be in a continuous state of flux. We live in the age of technology and like the iPhone, AI will continue to evolve. The evolution into the golf industry is just beginning.