There could be a dozen variations of the same program, each created for a different market or viewing device

The completion of a schedule would trigger all of the jobs required to fulfill that schedule, and all of the work could be completed automatically. For example, an episode of a sitcom could be shortened to a precise length with the correct language audio track selected, the channel “bug” inserted, and the correct advertisements added, after which the whole thing could be transcoded to a different aspect ratio or file format. The programming could be delivered as a single file, or a series of files, to the playout “edge” server located in the viewing market. Though there could be a dozen variations of the same program, each created for a different market or viewing device, none would require operator intervention.

While program material would be sent to the edge server as “data,” not digital video, it still would represents a lot of bits. WAN-optimization tools from leading vendors such as Aspera can speed transfers and enable different requests to receive a different priority. A last-minute change to a commercial schedule could speed programming to its destination while the transfer of tomorrow’s movie briefly idles or slows.

The core technologies and even early products on which to build this type of highly automated system already exist today, and manufacturers are achieving pioneering work with early adopters. Broadcasters can expect this next generation of worldwide fulfillment systems to make a dramatic impact on the economics of the video delivery business.

39

AUTOMATION FOCUS