IKL team supports Games readiness exercise ‘Technical Rehearsal 2’

Three members of the IOC’s IKL team – Noémie Bommottet, Nzumbe Nyanduga and Trofym Anderson – travelled early to Tokyo and have been in the Japanese capital since mid-May. Their first mission: assisting their colleagues with the Technical Rehearsal 2 (TR2), which forms part of the overall testing and operational readiness exercises process of the Technology area. During the rehearsal, Games competition days are simulated to run scenarios with the objective of testing technology operations (including people, processes and systems) and infrastructure readiness at the venue and the Technology Operations Centre (TOC).

Following the completion of TR2, Noémie, Nzumbe and Trofym are now supporting their Tokyo 2020 counterparts with the final preparations of the Games Experience Programme (GEP); the Games-time data-capture project; the production of virtual venue tours; and OCOG-produced content (OPC), including final preparations for archiving and the dissolution process.

“It’s the first time I have been part of the IOC staff delegation to arrive early on the ground ahead of the Olympic Games, and it has been an exciting experience so far,” says Trofym. “We had to quarantine first and then adjust to the new rhythm. The days are long, and I figured out quickly that it’s important to take care of yourself. For instance, I make sure I am going to the gym first thing in the morning, which helps me to stay fit mentally and physically.”

For all three of them, the participation in TR2 provided invaluable lessons and experience.

Nzumbe explains: “We are no tech experts, but TR2 gave me a solid understanding of the Games Technology scope, their operations and the important and complex role they play in the delivery of all technology solutions, systems and network infrastructure for the Games. The simulation exercises we ran in TR2 presented a safe environment for the venue teams to fail, learn and build confidence, and it was great to see their development from the first to the last day. The hardest part was probably getting them to shift from a planning mindset to an operations mode, but thanks to exercises like TR2, I’m confident the Venue TEC teams will be ready for the challenges ahead.”

“I was very impressed by the professionalism of the Tokyo 2020 tech staff,” says Trofym. “During the simulation, I was in three different venues assisting with various scenarios, and they were always quick in finding a solution for any problem. I feel they are very well prepared for the Games.”

Noémie adds: “TR2 also made me think of how the Technology FA can best engage with the rest of the OCOG. After all, technology really impacts all areas of Games delivery, and simulation is an important tool to integrate various functions.”

She continues: “After TR2 was finished, I met the IKM team from Tokyo 2020 for the first time. It’s great and much more efficient to address any outstanding questions and issues directly with them and other functions involved.”

Nzumbe adds: “Being here early on the ground means that we can also support our colleagues back in Lausanne by quickly following up on certain points and issues directly with the Tokyo FAs. We are able to find solutions much quicker than if we had to discuss things over email or Teams. Being here in person also helps us, the IOC, to better understand some of the specific local context and challenges.”

Trofym concludes: “The TR2 exercise highlighted once again that observational experiences are essential in learning – what better motivation could there be to help finalise the last preparations for the GEP, and make it a success for our colleagues from future OCOGs?”