Turning Old Archives Into New Revenue Opportunities – Dalet

Stephane Guez, Co-Founder and Principal, Dalet

UNLOCKING YOUR CONTENT’S VALUE

Long-established media organizations that serve up our favorite films and episodic content are often sitting on an enormous amount of valuable media that could be the key to unlocking new revenue opportunities, whether it’s repacking existing programs for new streaming opportunities or enhancing a new program with rich archival material. However, you need a cost-effective way to rescue and reuse archived content from the siloed systems and labyrinth of formats and files accumulated over the years. It has to be an accessible component of your media supply chain.

Is Your Archive Solution Obsolete?

When you consider the capabilities and functionality of your current library management solution, do you identify with any of these issues?

  • Content is hard to find and, when found, difficult to access
  • Expensive on-premises system is also labor-intensive to maintain
  • Hardware like tape libraries are out of date and needs to be upgraded
  • Content is not well documented
  • Ontology and data model are not meeting business requirements
  • Technology is not agile and does not support new formats or storage classes
  • Poor user tools for intelligent indexing, fast search or content recommendation
  • Retrieval time is long and costly
  • Expensive storage needs constant expansion
  • User interface is not web based and therefore not accessible to remote users

If so, it’s time to consider implementing an Intelligent Content Library in the cloud.

THE SOLUTION
WHAT IS AN INTELLIGENT CONTENT LIBRARY?

An Intelligent Content Library is a solution that provides predefined users with access to a catalog of rich digital assets, with tools to index, search and use all types of content. ​A cloud-native solution that can be deployed in the cloud, on premises or hybrid, it features state-of-the-art workflow orchestration, advanced metadata management and intuitive user interfaces. It can manage petabytes of content of all types – videos, pictures, audio and office documents – in any resolution or format including IMF, Image Sequences, AS-02, ProRes and camera RAW. The underlying media asset management integrates archives into the wider production workflow, ensuring objects and metadata are connected and assets can be easily found and retrieved, regardless of where they are located.

The essential capabilities of an Intelligent Content Library are:

  • Centralized repository, accessible from anywhere, to organize and curate assets collaboratively, search for and update metadata, and trigger workflows.
  • Capability to manage a wide range of complex assets, not just images and video, but also projects, camera cards, image sequences, IMF objects and more.
  • Ability to match its data model with your business requirements and editorial search requirements: are you a production company? A national archive? Do you have a large sports or news archive or all of the above? Whatever the nature of your business, it will benefit from a customizable data model with support for numerous metadata field types, including controlled vocabularies (tags, taxonomies, thesaurus) and structured objects likes EDLs (and its raw material) and rush selections, to help you build a truly valuable and discoverable archive.
  • It can handle complex migrations: an intelligent content library solution can scan metadata and make workflow decisions based on technical and editorial data points. It can match metadata to ontologies and taxonomies, process different metadata sources and map content to the desired data model.
  • Orchestration: a solid workflow engine is an essential part of an Intelligent Content Library. It automates manual tasks and makes smart decisions based on technical and editorial metadata, which is critical for the initial migration process as well as day-to-day workflows. It automates workflows and minimizes manual upkeep, standardizing processes for library management.
  • It supports your business-driven storage policies: where is high resolution media stored? And its corresponding proxies? Whether you’re planning to store content on-premises, in the cloud or a mixture of both, an Intelligent Content Library solution must support all options, and provide you with a clear picture of storage and egress costs, as well as retrieval times.
  • It connects to the wider ecosystem: it is likely that the archive needs to be accessed from the production system, the CMS, playout system or even an existing ERP.
  • Security: a platform that abides by the latest security standards and certifications, such as ISO27001, MFA authentication, fine-grained permissions management, zero trust policies and real time security monitoring.
  • Broadcast and streaming format awareness: an Intelligent Content Library can recognize and manipulate broadcast formats that come with complex folder and file structures such as IMF, AS02 and data from camera cards. Users can automate more efficient archive/restore processes.
  • Artificial Intelligent (AI) capabilities: delivering automated indexing of speech, object, facial and logo recognition to enrich your media library and reduce the time and effort required to locate useful content.
  • Disaster Recovery: with high storage durability guaranteed by cloud vendors, deploying an archive in the cloud is often more secure than on-premises. Intelligent Content Libraries provide redundancy across different availability zones and can be configured to manage two (or more) instances of an archive, one on-premises and a copy in the cloud, ensuring business continuity.

Why going cloud-native helps.

A cloud-native architecture is key in enabling companies to future-proof their businesses, accelerating time-to-market and reducing total cost of ownership. A modern, cloud-native content library introduces:

  • Distributed architecture: the solution can manage multiple storage pools, on-premises and/or in the cloud. Users can search and preview all content, no matter how distributed, from one central library.
  • Content lifecycle control, per storage tier: dynamic, easy-to-deploy decision-making options that add to the benefits of operating in a cost-effective and resource-optimized working environment. Decisions can be automatically driven by metadata that pertains specifically to your business, leveraging storage tiers according to content usage.
  • Scalability: expand and contract your storage volume per tier, on the fly. Only pay for the storage you are currently using, starting at a very low cost level and growing as you need. No need to pay today for what you may need in the future.
  • Elasticity: cloud-native architecture means media processing services are elastic and resources are only expanded when needed. You can run multiple projects simultaneously with the highest degree of performance as required, and throttle back when not. Elastic media processing will help meet total cost of ownership requirements, with a pay-as-you-go model that adjusts based on peaks, and introduces savings of up to 90% on the average media processing bill.

Structure and Design: the Cloud and Hybrid Rule

Unlike a rigid on-premises archive, an Intelligent Content Library in the cloud is a dynamically manageable and massively scalable library, capable of efficiently orchestrating asset aging and exchanges between primary and long-term, cheaper storage. For example, if, at the beginning of a sports season, media managers know that producers will want quick access to all of the content from last year, they can create tiering rules to cost-effectively meet this need. Ahead of the new season, previous years’ content can be automatically moved from “cold” to “cool”, or even “hot” storage, then returned to “cold” storage as soon as the season is over. This maximizes access while minimizing how long content resides on more expensive storage tiers.

By combining automation and manual intervention, you can optimally balance workloads and virtualized infrastructure to achieve significant savings in costs and time.

Selecting a Partner to Help Migrate Your Archive

An Intelligent Content Library in the cloud enables media-savvy organizations to enhance their media strategy and optimize their high-value content. It empowers content owners to leverage years of archived content by offering new revenue opportunities that bring clear benefits to their businesses.

At Dalet, we have years of expertise managing content and helping organizations make the most of their long-term archive. We can provide content owners with best practices in implementing an Intelligent Content Library in the cloud, including customization, data migration, security and content protection.

 Contact us to discuss how you can unlock your archives’ full potential and increase the revenue and the value of your media operations.

Chyron: How Accessible Training Translates to Talent – Building, Leveraging, and Keeping It

Carol Bettencourt, Vice President of Marketing, Chyron

Access to great training resources is a must in live broadcast production, where — thanks to both historical factors and modern pressures — it can be difficult to attract, maintain, and retain talent.

Turnover has long been an issue, particularly in news production, where a first job in television is an exciting idea for many people, but not a lasting proposition for all. People move on, or they move up into new and different roles as they build skills and experience. Training has always been a central element of that natural progression. And today, with the global labor shortage making it more difficult to fill entry-level positions, it is all the more important as inexperienced team members are brought on board.

The recent uptick in mergers and acquisitions across the industry has led to increased consolidation of businesses and workflows, and this trend likewise has driven the need for ongoing training. As groups of talented people come together, training can play a critical role in ensuring that more experienced engineering teams across the entire organization can work together effectively — using the same technologies — to drive production workflows. In this sense, training can help to eliminate silos that limit collaboration and creativity.

Training also can help a workforce, and an organization as a whole, to embrace new tools and new ways of working, which in turn allows for greater agility. On a day-to-day basis, this may mean greater flexibility in taking a live broadcast to air. In the larger scheme of things, it also can mean being able to pivot smoothly in response to new opportunities and challenges.

Addressing Change and Opportunity

The transition to digital, increasing adoption of automated processes, and the use of AI to drive efficiencies across operations — all of these trends have opened up fresh opportunity for the modern broadcast operation. And significant challenges, the most notable of which has been a global pandemic, have pushed broadcasters, production, and postproduction companies to transform, implementing and refining remote workflows to get content ready for air. Using REMI and distributed workflows, supported by cloud-based technology, they found ways to do their work remotely, sometimes using the same equipment they used before and sometimes using virtualized versions of those tools.

Solutions for live production make it easier than ever for graphics designers, journalists, and other users to tell compelling stories, and the rise of distributed workflows allows them to contribute from anywhere. For example, Chyron’s AXIS on-demand graphics order management, design, and animation system allows an artist at one broadcast station to answer graphics requests from journalists across the larger station group — even if that artist is logging in and working from home. The hub-and-spoke model of Chyron’s MOS-driven CAMIO newsroom graphics management system and tools such as AXIS can actually extend beyond the station walls.

Across broadcast, production, and postproduction, implementation of distributed workflows and REMI production has allowed organizations to leverage their teams more effectively — and often more cost-effectively — to meet the needs of different projects and workflows. Whether for one-off live events or ongoing production work, they can source talent from across the country, and even across the globe. This flexibility enables employers to hire just the right person for a job, regardless of where they live or work, and the option of remote work is often a key selling point for high-value job candidates who can’t or don’t want to travel or commute for work.

As participation in production and postproduction workflows becomes increasingly accessible, thanks to remote and distributed models supported by cloud-based technologies, training takes on new importance. It helps a creative without experience get a foot in the door. It enables broadcasters to find potential employees with the skills to step in and contribute. It empowers people working in the field to take their skills to the next level.

Accessible training on the latest software helps to bridge the skills gap so evident today. And, when training is provided by a software vendor in a structured manner, it provides a credible reference for employers looking to promote or hire. That’s the free training and professional development resource that Chyron brings to the industry with the Chyron Academy.

The Chyron Academy Training Model

While most organizations see the value in providing ongoing training for their employees, the conventional approach to the task has been less than desirable. In the case of a new product installation or implementation, a company typically would fly in an expert, who might spend anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks getting the appropriate team up to speed. After some time, that same expert might return for a follow-up, or to give a repeat training for new hires. In addition to being expensive, this training model was a poor fit for busy people working in a fast-paced news environment.

Training conducted by peers has had the benefit of being less costly — and, in theory, the trainer in this scenario has a keen understanding of the environment and knows exactly what needs to be done. In some cases, such a colleague can be an exceptional source of knowledge and a highly effective instructor. Even when that’s true, however, it’s unreasonable to expect that even the best peer-trainer can take enough time away from other duties to be sure that every detail is covered and understood.

While Chyron provides training and support with all of its solutions, the company has tackled the ongoing training challenge from a different angle, offering structured, in-depth training about how to use Chyron products through its Chyron Academy. For broadcasters and production companies, the academy offers a simple way to train staff, anywhere and at any time, without incurring additional costs. For participants, it’s an opportunity to build expertise and a sample portfolio, a difficult task without actual time on the job.

Chyron Academy began by supplying online training videos in a logical order that would lead the viewer from beginner to expert. Today, participants in this free certification program gain access to the latest Chyron software, which they use to learn and practice new skills introduced in a self-paced online curriculum created by product experts.

Choosing from courses on software including PRIME designer, PAINT telestration and illustrated replay, and AXIS graphics, Chyron Academy participants build their skills using the same tools that professionals rely on to produce some of the world’s best-known live news and sports broadcasts. (Courses on Chyron LIVE, Click Effects, and PRIME Switcher also are available, with more being added all the time, as is a program on remote production.) Through graded quizzes, examples of their work in the software, and eventual certification as a “black belt,” participants demonstrate their proficiency with the software and pave the way toward a future in live production.

Since the academy was founded in 2020, more than 5,000 people have taken courses. Hundreds of people have earned certifications at basic and intermediate levels across all products covered by Chyron Academy. Some have used the training to help them succeed on an existing career path, while others have leveraged their new skills and certification to become Chyron interns, freelancers for Chyron Creative Services, and freelancers for Chyron customers.

While this highly accessible model for training and certification significantly improves on conventional approaches to staff training, particularly in terms of cost and comprehensiveness, it also addresses and embraces new ways of working. Making it easier to train new staff and keep employees current on the latest features and capabilities of vital software tools, many of which facilitate more automated, agile, and efficient live production workflows, Chyron Academy helps broadcasters and production companies succeed in today’s dynamic, and often challenging, business environment.

BTS: Behind the Scenes – The Impact of Diverse Talent in Broadcasting

Natalie Hayward, Application Specialist, Broadcast Traffic Systems

In recent years, the emergence of new distribution models such as AVOD, SVOD, and FAST channels have disrupted the traditional television market. These newer platforms offer viewers greater flexibility and choice and are rapidly gaining popularity among younger audiences. To stay ahead of the curve, broadcasters need to diversify their channels by developing content specifically tailored to these new platforms and consumers, whilst simultaneously meeting the needs of existing audiences.

But is the current mix of talent behind the scenes diverse enough to cover all perspectives, when creating and managing next generation channels?

Why representation matters

Whether it’s content creation, post-production, advertising management or channel scheduling, a diverse team can bring a range of ideas and viewpoints to a broadcasting workflow. Considering opinions and insights from those with a different gender, ethnicity, age, culture, or socio-economic background to you, can help build successful channels that resonate with broader demographics. A diverse team can create content that is inclusive, relevant, and appealing, and can help to identify and eliminate unconscious bias. It can also lead to increased creativity and profitability. Considering topics from a different point of view also has the potential to attract more advertisers and sponsors who are looking to enhance their targeted ad-distribution.

Changing the narrative

The broadcast technology sector is full of innovative and skilled professionals, however, there is still a lack of balanced representation. Knowledge doesn’t discriminate, yet this Diversity in Tech Report found that only 25% of tech workers belong to ethnic minority groups, and The World Economic Forum noted the lack of evenly distributed career opportunities for young people in certain groups. Given the difficulties many organisations face when trying to fill tech jobs, and the reported digital skills shortage in the UK, media companies can’t afford to overlook the skills demonstrated by people from diverse backgrounds.

Forums such as Rise, which focuses on gender diversity, and the TV Access Project (TAP), which works to ensure an inclusive television production sector for disabled talent, are successfully driving change within the industry. Although we are seeing more diversity and inclusion (D&I) campaigns across the industry, there needs to be more targeted encouragement given to everyone from a young age. In a tech-driven world, young people need to be exposed to the potential of working in the technology industry without fear of discrimination. The youth of today are the innovators and experts of our future, and highlighting the benefits of working in media tech can drive the next generation to pursue a career in an exciting and thriving industry.

How diversity impacts engagement

 Diversity in broadcast technology can have a significant impact on channel engagement. A diverse workforce better reflects the interests and perspectives of viewers, meaning broadcasters can resonate with larger audiences and effectively increase engagement. By including views and opinions from a variety of professionals, content can be produced and managed in an inclusive and accessible way. This can increase engagement from underrepresented groups who may have previously felt excluded by mainstream media. Studies have shown that diverse teams are 87% better at making decisions and 70% more likely to capture new markets. These numbers are likely attributed to the wider experiences and opinions contributed by team members from varying backgrounds, which more realistically represent the perspectives of a diverse viewership. Audiences are smart and they can tell when content is authentic. Fostering a more diverse and inclusive approach throughout the media chain can help build trust and credibility, while also maintaining loyalty from existing viewers.

A focus on consumer data

The newer generation of channels and platforms come with unique and advanced features which, when leveraged correctly, can drive success. Consumer data has become a crucial tool within the broadcasting industry, used to improve programming decisions and user experiences. Personalisation is a key focus for many media organisations and user insights provide the means to keep the likes of SVOD, AVOD, and FAST channels competitive and relevant. Accurately analysing data for audience behaviour, patterns, and trends, allows broadcasters – and advertisers – to target their ideal demographics.

Advertisers want to reach specific audiences, and by utilising advanced data, they can create highly targeted ad-campaigns that resonate with those demographics. Consumers have high expectations, and research has shown that 90% of customers will splurge with companies that personalize customer service. For the consumer, dynamic ad placement builds trust and loyalty, and for the advertiser, personalisation provides opportunities to reach intended audiences. The broadcaster gets the best of both. It retains a committed viewership and benefits from higher engagement, while growing revenue from advertisers who are willing to pay more to reach a highly focused audience.

So how does a diverse workforce fit in?

With a diverse team, media companies can avoid biases and assumptions in their data analysis. Wrongly interpreting data can lead to misguided content strategies and missed opportunities. A diverse mix of talent can provide a broader and more nuanced understanding of consumer behaviour, which can lead to more accurate insights and better decisions. Additionally, a variety of perspectives can help broadcasters and advertisers better understand and connect with a wider audience. With a focus on more accurate and representative data, providers can improve the effectiveness and inclusiveness of their content.

Colorful figurines on the dark surface. Diversity and inclusion concept.

With the emergence of new distribution models, media companies can connect with a broader range of audiences, but this requires a diverse mix of talent behind the scenes. A team with different perspectives and experiences can bring fresh ideas to the table, create inclusive and appealing content, and identify and eliminate unconscious biases.

Although there are many challenges to overcome, such as the lack of balanced representation and the need for more encouragement from a younger age, there are encouraging signs of change. A diverse workforce can accurately reflect the interests and perspectives of consumers, can help build trust and credibility, and maintain loyalty from audiences who can tell when content is authentic. Diversity is not just a moral imperative, but a strategic advantage for media companies looking to stay ahead of the curve and connect with audiences in meaningful ways.