Olympic Technology

Think of the ways scores and timings are captured. Think of action replays and decisions about photo finishes. Think of all the spectators, competitors and officials who will need to travel smoothly and easily to and from events.

According to the official Olympics website, technology will transform the way people engage with the Games. Digital channels such as the web and mobile phones will allow everyone to access, share and participate in the 2012 Games. In the run-up to the Games, people will be offered ways to get closer to the action, interacting with data and sharing their own. There will be new ways to interact with events, whether it is through spectator services in the Olympic Park or interactive technologies in UK towns and cities.

Improving East London long term

Think of all the land and space that the Olympics will require. A previously neglected and contaminated area will be cleaned and cleared to create the largest new urban park in Europe for 150 years. Work has started on building over 30 new permanent bridges and 20km of roads. Transport links will also be improved to create one of the best-connected areas of the capital.

Cashless wonder

Visa has pledged to make it entirely cashless for visitors. ‘Contactless’ cards will be swiped over a reader (like an Oyster card) to make a payment. These can also be used on transport and electronic tickets for events. More than 5,000 retailers including McDonalds, Krispy Kreme and Eat have signed up.