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German B2C and B2B transactional portals run on the framework we are developing! Insights from Gaming Operations Academy’s Adam Roebuck
The iGaming industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned operator, a budding game studio, or simply curious about the inner workings of online gaming, understanding the nuances of this sector is crucial for success. In a recent episode of CEOpen mic, Adam Roebuck, owner/CEO of Gaming Operations Academy, shared invaluable insights into the world of iGaming training, market trends, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:
Your training partner in the iGaming world
Gaming Operations Academy offers public, bespoke, private training, and consultancy services tailored for the gaming world, primarily focusing on operators. They also cater to B2B providers seeking to understand operator pain points. Operating globally, they have a strong presence in Central Europe, Latin America (including Brazil as a distinct market), North America (land-based), Africa, and Asia.
Building a solid foundation – Training for success
For those venturing into the world of game development or online casinos, Gaming Operations Academy provides essential training through courses like the Online Gaming Management Masterclass and Online Sportsbook Fundamentals Courses. These intensive programs cover critical aspects such as mathematics, regulation, marketing, and funding. Participants gain the knowledge to develop robust business cases or, perhaps more importantly, realize when they might not be ready, saving them significant resources and potential setbacks.
Partnerships for enhanced learning
Gaming Operations Academy enhances its training through strategic partnerships with platforms and KYC providers, offering realistic and engaging experiences. By collaborating with companies like Soft Swiss, Raven Track, and Optimove, they provide clients with hands-on access to platform backends and dummy platforms, allowing them to input data, identify VIPs, recognize responsible gambling flags, and explore game promotion strategies. This approach moves away from traditional “death by PowerPoint” and focuses on practical application.
Navigating the training landscape
While Gaming Operations Academy isn’t the only training provider in the iGaming space, they distinguish themselves through their operational focus. While other companies focus on compliance-led training (AML, KYC, fraud), Gaming Operations Academy hones in on operational training. They foster a collaborative environment, often passing business to other reputable providers to benefit the industry as a whole.
From ketchup king to iGaming expert – Adam’s Journey
Adam’s path to becoming a leader in iGaming training is far from conventional. From selling ketchup sachets and counterfeit school uniforms in his youth to running an online estate agency and bars in Spain, his entrepreneurial spirit has always been evident. After the global financial crisis impacted his businesses, he transitioned to the events industry in Australia, eventually finding his niche in gaming. A stint at Clarion, helping build ICE (International Casino Exhibition), solidified his expertise and passion for the industry.
The birth of gaming operations academy – A story of resilience
The decision to take on the training academy was born out of a desire to protect the hard work and content developed at Clarion. Driven by a sense of responsibility and a commitment to the industry, Adam launched Gaming Operations Academy, leveraging his extensive network and experience. The company was profitable from day one, thanks to a strong focus on LinkedIn networking and building relationships.
Entering new markets – The importance of relationships
Expanding into new markets, particularly Latin America and Brazil, requires a deep understanding of the local culture and a commitment to building genuine relationships. It’s not enough to simply offer a product or service; companies must invest in the community, employ local talent, and contribute to the region’s growth.
Agility and intuition – The keys to success
Adam emphasizes the importance of agility and intuition in business. Instead of getting bogged down in complex spreadsheets and KPIs, he advocates for a “just do it” approach, relying on experience, gut feeling, and a willingness to take calculated risks. This approach is particularly effective when starting a business without significant borrowing.
The state of iGaming – Innovation and opportunity
Despite being a technologically advanced sector, the iGaming industry can be slow to adopt new innovations. Adam believes that smaller companies are often the driving force behind innovation, as they are more nimble and less burdened by legacy systems. This creates opportunities for startups to disrupt the market with modern solutions and exceptional customer service.
Survival rates and the importance of adaptability
The survival rate for new iGaming operators is surprisingly low, with estimates suggesting that 75-90% fail. However, those that do survive often demonstrate adaptability, switching platforms and refining their strategies within the first 18 months. This highlights the importance of choosing the right technology partners and remaining flexible in a rapidly changing market.
AI: Hype vs. reality
AI is undoubtedly the buzzword of the moment, but Adam cautions against mistaking hype for substance. While real AI technology exists and is slowly making its way into gaming, many companies are simply relabeling existing data analytics as “AI-driven.” He emphasizes the need for end-to-end AI solutions that can truly transform the industry.
The future of AI in iGaming – Opportunities and challenges
AI has the potential to revolutionize various aspects of iGaming, from customer service and personalization to fraud detection and responsible gambling. However, it also poses challenges, including job displacement and the potential for misuse. Adam stresses the importance of embracing AI as an opportunity while remaining mindful of its potential downsides.
Final thoughts
Adam Roebuck’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the iGaming industry, highlighting the importance of training, adaptability, and a commitment to building genuine relationships. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing new technologies like AI while remaining grounded in core principles will be crucial for success.
This article is based on an episode of the CEOpen mic podcast. For the full conversation and more insights, tune in to CEOpen mic on YouTube and Spotify – don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!
