Could Google+ Hangouts Redefine Press Conferences?

Is Google+ a Game Changer? To be honest, I'm not sure yet. But their concept of a Hangout is definitely intriguing.

I think you have to look at what it could replace. The press conference is something that needs reinventing. As tech has evolved, we haven't seen a rapid increase in how athletes or coaches get in front of fans or the media. In general, we see games finish and the media waits until the coach and key player(s) enter the room. Questions follow, and articles/blogs are written.

We're getting a little better in some cases -- where fans are able to ask questions of their coach or players and the school (or media) helps get answers. It's a great step, but it doesn't respond to the level of personal touch or emotion that it could.

Enter the idea of a Hangout. If you haven't heard of these, Google+ allows you and up to 9 friends to connect via what's basically a video chat. Here's a quick video that brings that to life.

But what's that mean to sports teams? The Dallas Cowboys were the first team I saw take advantage of this idea. They put star DE Demarcus Ware in front of a computer and let him interact with fans. As you'll see in the images below, it feels like you are literally in a small table hanging with Demarcus...

And when fans ask questions, the screen changes -- reinforcing this idea of being at a table, together. (It feels like this is an exclusive group, not like we should just watch one person)!

You can watch the full video (it's just over 12 minutes) here or click in below. I highly recommend it.

OK, so what does this mean for college programs? This network enables you to put up to 9 fans in contact with your team at any point in time. That's pretty special access and it is something to consider, as the Dallas Cowboys example illustrates. I'm not saying you need to set up a Google+ page today, but what I am saying is that the level of connection this offers is inspiring. This might even be a way to give your post game press conference could get a nice refresh -- letting 9 super fans get access that has historically been allowed only for select media personnel!

Tune back in Wednesday for more digital best practices. Until then, follow me here, or on Facebook (here) or Twitter (I'm @andypawlowski)

As always, thanks for reading!

Andy