From the Desk of… Melanie Benjamin, Chief Executive, Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe
“From the Desk Of…” is a series from the G2E Insider written by G2E community members to share their knowledge with the wider gaming industry. Melanie Benjamin, Chief Executive of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe writes about tribal gaming’s achievements in 2023, the importance of G2E to the industry, and what she thinks the future will hold.
In the dynamic landscape of tribal gaming, 2023 stands out as a year marked by triumphs and transformative developments. Clearly, the tribal gaming industry is thriving and actively evolving to confront the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead. This year notably witnessed a significant expansion of mobile sports betting and online gaming in approved areas, indicative of a broader trend within the industry to embrace new technologies and elevate the overall gaming experience.
Global Gaming Expo has always played a pivotal role in propelling tribal gaming forward, serving as a hub where casinos worldwide converge to learn, collaborate, and innovate. G2E acts as a nexus for professional development, product discovery, and the exchange of perspectives, cultivating a global mindset among tribal casinos. As a tribal leader, I appreciate that this exposure empowers us as tribes to grasp diverse markets, navigate regulatory landscapes, and explore cutting-edge industry technologies, positioning them at the forefront of innovation.
As a tribal leader, I depend on our casino experts to anticipate changing trends and technologies. Looking ahead to 2024, there are new trends that our team is very excited about. Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping business practices and providing innovative solutions to industry challenges. Digital advertising, driven by AI, is becoming more effective, offering targeted and personalized campaigns. The ongoing transition from traditional to digital in the gaming industry is marked by significant investments in tech infrastructure, including customer relationship management tools like Salesforce, app development, advanced website technologies, and enterprise management tools like Workday.
For G2E 2024, the incorporation of Augmented Reality (AR) promises an enhanced guest experience through immersive and interactive environments. The emergence of new entries in handheld online interactive “live” gaming technology reflects a dynamic shift in gaming experiences. Additionally, the evolution of payment technologies is expected to take center stage, showcasing user-friendly products and cutting-edge technology.
Tribal gaming has not only flourished in 2023 but is gearing up for a future marked by innovation, technological advancements, and a commitment to providing unparalleled gaming experiences. G2E remains the catalyst for this transformation, bringing together global industry players to shape the future of tribal gaming.
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Hear more from Melanie Benjamin about her career and the importance of tribal gaming to the larger gaming industry in “Shattering Ceilings: Women Leaders in Tribal Gaming” recorded onsite at G2E 2023 and available on-demand.