Introduction
Kenya Golf Union (KGU) and Kenya Ladies Golf Union (KLGU) have come together to set up Kenya Golf Network Limited (KGN). KGN’S mandate is to offer value added golf information services to golfers and the general public by use of modern information technology.
By embracing modern information technology, KGN is working on rolling out an infrastructure that will allow the parent aorganisations and other players in golf and Member golf clubs, share relevant golf information in Kenya. Key to the core objective is the development and deployment of a web portal, an integrated premium short message service (SMS), a wide area network linking all golf clubs and an integrated smartcard for members identity and collaborative loyalty programs.
KGN Web Portal
The Kenya Golf Network web portal (www.kenyagolfnetwork.co.ke) will be the “home” of golf information in Kenya. It will be the primary destination where golfers will interact and access golf information on the web.
The portal will be of world class status in terms of content, design and infrastructure. KGN has engaged a multi-skill team of experts in the development of the web portal. All golf clubs in Kenya will be hosted on the portal in their respective where they will be able to update and post relevant information direct to the portal. KGN is using the latest web content management technology in developing the portal to make it interactive and easy to use and navigate.
KGN Premium SMS Service – 4653 – “golf on the keypad”
The KGN Premium SMS service will offer golfers and the general public information services on demand. KGN has reserved the number “4653” which on the standard phone keypad is “golf”. This is an easy to remember number and golfers will find it easy to use the service for various updates for information such as handicap changes or updates, tee times for specific competitions, weekend and club-night draws, golf news update and other info. The information will be available on subscription or by request, direct to the users’ mobile number. The SMS server will be linked to the portal database thereby ensuring that the information being disseminated is up-to-date.
KGN Wide Area Network
The Wide Area Network will connect all members clubs to the KGN offices at Muthaiga golf club. Kenya Data Networks Limited has been awarded the contract to offer the infrastructure and the service. Individual clubs will also be enabled to connect to the internet using this infrastructure. KDN will deploy their “butterfly” wireless internet at all clubs thereby improving accessibility to clubs and the respective members.
KGN Smartcard Service
Members of both parent unions will be offered smartcards which will serve as both membership identity and loyalty cards. KGN with support of the service provider will run loyalty programs with established outlets for the ultimate benefits to the members.
Kenya Golf Network will be testing the above four services in the country in the next two months in readiness for the main launch in March 2010. All clubs will be provided with the necessary information and the initial training for the administrators, captains and vice captains was held on 18th August 2009.
Kenya Golf Network will leverage the rich history and culture of the game of golf in Kenya, improve the sharing and accessibility of golf information and promote Kenya a prime golf destination in the world.
