NIL Needs an Operating System
Updated: Apr 18
NILGPT for CRM
Earlier this month we wrote about the need for extending CRM platforms at universities to address NIL data and processes. Universities today like many for profit enterprises have a host of applications across their IT landscape. These range from custom to best of breed applications for specific functions such as HR, alumni relationships, payroll, and systems of records for students and university staff. It’s estimated that approximately 40% of these universities use Salesforce, and therefore we will focus on the types of extensions universities can make to their CRM systems to address some of the more obvious operational requirements of NIL to ensure ownership and security of their constituent data.
About Image: Illustrates risks of data replication across 3rd party systems
Let’s consider the ‘NIL System Providers’ processes highlighted in the graphic above. Universities capture student data in their student information systems and then integrate this data with CRM in order to accelerate and scale workflow processes. Universities can extend this schema and workflow by capturing registered agents and agencies that work with their student athletes to secure endorsements. Similarly, universities can extend the definition of their alumni sponsors in order to capture instances of NIL agreements, and finally they can also capture sponsoring brands and businesses ranging from hyper-local business owners to corporate sponsors. By centralizing this information within their CRM data platform the universities can leverage their existing technology investments and harness their IT skills to configure, manage and maintain this new functionality in a holistic manner. Implementing this strategy ensures ownership and security of their constituent data.
About Image: Illustrates NIL Desktop configuration using Salesforce CRM
Universities that choose to implement a NIL Desktop application across their campuses benefit from their existing investments in CRM. Specifically, they can use a low-code approach to extend and evolve their NIL requirements over time. Universities can also leverage analytics and reporting, as well as collaboration and workflow tools to automate evolving processes. Finally, universities can leverage integration solutions such as Mulesoft and provide an API interface for certified 3rd parties that require data access to support or provide services to the student-athletes, athletic departments and compliance offices.
About Image: Illustrates NIL Desktop configuration with NILGPT Helpdesk
NILGPT is like other AI bots but has been specifically configured for the ever evolving NIL domain. NILGPT can be deployed as a standalone service or integrated into CRM as a Helpdesk that serves all internal stakeholders looking for the latest information regarding NIL. Stakeholders use a specially designed interface that automates prompting and leverages retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) to ensure accurate responses for all policy related data, as well as any sponsored or reference data required by the university. NILGPT accelerates knowledge and enablement as it is available 24x7 on any browser across any device. NILGPT also reduces time to value by doing away with costly 3rd party training that does not scale, and is highly dependent upon the availability of trainers across multiple domains.
The State of NIL changes every day. The uncertainty of who can and will participate in the future and under what status remains to be determined. Regardless of where the rules are enforced and by whom it’s clear that the universities own the system of record for students, university policies, alumni, sponsors, and their athletic calendars. By harnessing this data and the inherent workflows universities can begin to define a NIL operating system that protects their data, leverages their investments and prepares them for where the puck is heading.
To learn more about how CIMS.AI can assist with configuring your CRM NIL Desktop or Helpdesk, contact us at info@cims.ai
About CIMS.AI
CIMS.AI was cofounded by ex-Salesforce, Vlocity, and Siebel Systems software executives with the mission to democratize the emerging athlete-influencer economy. CIMS.AI is focused on ensuring athletes across all sports are prepared for the opportunity to participate in the NIL economy and has developed several GAI solutions, including Powered by NILGPT for education and enablement, NIL Agent Desktop for NIL Agreement Compliance and Reporting, and NIL Influencer Scout to support Title IX.
About NIL
The meaning of NIL or Name, Image, Likeness is the right for an individual ‘influencer’ to monetize their Name, Image, and Likeness. Historically, Media and Professional Sports Celebrities have worked with talent marketing agencies to take advantage of this monetization opportunity.
Skip Roncal
Cofounder
Comments