Tech Transformation on the Tee: Platform Golf Live at the 2026 PGA Show
Executive Overview
The traditional golf sector is experiencing a massive tech renaissance—and at the forefront of this shift are innovators like Rory Flanagan and Thomas Hackett of Platform Golf.
In Season 6, Episode 4 of The GBT Podcast, recorded live on location at the 2026 PGA Show, host Aboo Tayub connects with Flanagan and Hackett directly from the exhibition floor to dive into how modern software platforms, connected ecosystems, and data intelligence are tackling long-standing friction points for venue operators, PGA pros, and players alike.
Episode Summary
Surrounded by the energy and latest innovations at the PGA Show, the conversation kicks off with Rory and Thomas detailing their journey into the golf tech space and the key gaps they set out to address. Rather than adding tech for tech’s sake, Platform Golf focuses on creating seamless, integrated user experiences that simplify operational complexities while unlocking new revenue streams for golf businesses.
Throughout this special on-location episode, the panel dives into the challenges of introducing digital workflows into traditionally conservative environments. Flanagan and Hackett outline how proving immediate ROI and prioritizing intuitive design are essential to driving long-term adoption across management teams and end-users.
The discussion wraps up with a look into the future: how emerging technologies spotlighted at this year’s show will continue shaping facility management, player retention, and the global golf economy.
Key Takeaways & Industry Insights
- Live from Orlando: Real-time analysis of the biggest technology trends emerging from the 2026 PGA Show.
- Bridging the Digital Divide: Why user-centric design is crucial when onboarding traditional golf facilities onto modern digital infrastructure.
- Connected Ecosystems: The power of integrating operations, customer data, and tech platforms to streamline daily workflows.
- Driving Commercial Value: How smart technology transitions from an operational cost to an active revenue engine for facilities.
- The Next Era of Golf Tech: Key predictions on where technology will impact the industry most over the next 3 to 5 years.