Driving Safer Gambling | Focal Research at Regulating the Game 2025
Focal Research’s participation in the Regulating the Game 2025 conference (March 11-13), coupled with strategic client engagements, underscores our dedication to innovation, and research.
Pitching Innovation: Focal GO and Focal Assist
Our conference experience commenced with the Pitch! at Regulating the Game event, where we introduced two groundbreaking tools:
- Focal GO: A mobile application designed for gaming floor staff, enabling tailored interactions with high-risk players identified by our proprietary algorithms.
- Focal Assist: An interactive website providing gaming providers with harm minimization strategies and help resources via QR codes shared with high-risk players.
We are proud to announce that Jay Robinson, our Chief Stakeholder Relations Officer, delivered the winning pitch for Focal GO, a testament to our team’s dedication and innovation. Special recognition goes to our software engineer, Tim Wentzell, for his pivotal role in developing this practical product aimed at enhancing safer gambling actions on the floor.
Our success did not go unnoticed. In their coverage of the event, Yogonet highlighted Focal GO as the winning innovation of the Pitch! Challenge. Their article emphasized how our data-driven approach is advancing safer gambling outcomes and recognized the event as a platform for bold ideas and transformative solutions.
Masterclass | Beyond Compliance
On March 12, Jay Robinson conducted a masterclass titled “Beyond Compliance – Safer Gambling Training and Building a Culture of Customer Care.” This session emphasized the importance of leadership, meaningful training, and fostering a culture of care to drive real change within organizations. Jay’s insights challenged industry leaders to move beyond mere compliance, placing the well-being of players and staff at the forefront.
Industry Collaborations in Research
Our President, Tracy Schrans, presented “Industry Collaborations in Research,” sharing groundbreaking findings from our collaboration with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas’ International Gaming Institute. The session delved into continuous play sessions, identifying who is likely to engage in extended play and the underlying reasons. Tracy’s insights provided practical guidance on optimizing player interactions to prevent and minimize gambling harm, challenging existing assumptions and paving the way for more effective interactions.
Panel Discussions | AI and Emerging Gambling Technologies
Tracy also participated in the Artificial Intelligence Panel, discussing how AI is transforming the betting and gambling industry. The panel explored potential applications of AI, security and privacy concerns, and the readiness of the technology, offering regulators insights into the implications of AI integration.
Additionally, our Senior Advisor, Linda Woo, joined the “Safer Gambling Panel: Player Protection and Emerging Forms of Gambling.” The discussion focused on the rise of social gaming, skill-based gambling, and other emerging technologies, addressing risks associated with game mechanics, aggressive marketing, and monetization strategies. Linda shared insights on navigating these challenges while keeping player safety at the forefront, contributing to an engaging and thoughtful discussion.
Looking Ahead
Our time at Regulating the Game 2025 in Sydney Australia reinforced the importance of collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to safer gambling practices. We look forward to continuing to work closely with industry partners and clients to drive meaningful change and promote responsible gambling worldwide.
Jonathan Myers
Creative Director, Digital Marketing Specialist, Focal Research Consultants
