Transforming Media Workflows

Let’s look at some key developments shaping modern media workflows and the common challenges shared across the industry.

1.   A Centralised Media Model

In a traditional media workflow, content is passed along the chain, moving from one stage to the next. In a modern cloud-based workflow, the operator travels(albeit virtually) to the content. Having content processed-in-place, not only avoids egress and file transfer fees, but also streamlines processes, improves flexibility and provides better content security. Additionally, remote collaboration becomes much easier, quicker, and more effective, meaning media companies can better utilise talent from around the globe. Accurate.Video’s integration with SDVI’s Rally Access platform allows operators to select tasks and open them in a consolidated workspace, without ever leaving the browser. Once the task is complete, Rally ensures the content moves on seamlessly through the Media Supply Chain.

2.   An “à la carte” Approach to Content Processing

Media companies need the ability to select different technology platforms and services, based on the value of the content being processed. The quality and speed of software processing used for; transcoding, auto-QC, machine learning analysis, manual content validation, or QC and curation, should be dictated by the content grading standard (platinum, gold, silver, or bronze). However, QC is a broad term and plays a different role at different stages of the media workflow. One role might be to check the overall quality of the raw media. Another might be to check the finer details, such as whether previously flagged audio and visual errors have been addressed or not. The stage and context of the QC operation will define which QC tool is used.

It makes sense to use a feature-rich Master QC solution for higher value content, utilising all the features available. But that level of functionality can get in the way if your media assets don’t require it, at a particular stage in the chain. Over-complicating the process can result in wasted resources. An à la carte approach gives media companies the ability to respond to specific requirements. Accurate.Video is highly configurable and uses REST APIs to join forces with best-in-class solutions and services. As it sits on top of existing infrastructure it can be deployed on multiple platforms. Find out more in our documentation here.

3.   Cost vs Revenue

By understanding that there are different costs attached to different processes, it becomes possible to measure what the value of certain content is, balanced against the cost to process it. This gives media companies the context they need, to understand whether there is adequate return on investment from processing a particular piece of content.

Knowing how much it would cost to process content for a particular platform is key, when deciding whether it is a commercially viable option. This way of operating lets media companies split their media catalogue into different value tiers. To manage these content tiers effectively, it’s important to deploy a streamlined archiving solution that allows users offload seamlessly from different storage tiers. Cantemo is our hybrid-cloud, media asset management system. It can be integrated with any number of archive solutions for the creation of advanced archiving rules.

4.   Increased Focus on UI andUX

User Experience (UX) doesn’t just apply to end-users streaming Netflix on their device of choice. As demonstrated in this Kanal 75 case study, it is also critical that media professionals operating within the supply chain use an interface that is both elegant and intuitive. Increasing the focus on UI and UX for media operators goes a long way towards improved engagement, offering greater levels of employee satisfaction and increased productivity.

By improvingUX and UI, media organisations can truly optimise their content production and preparation processes, and the increased visibility means M&E teams can operate much more strategically. Any product or development journey begins with the user. At Codemill we focus on understanding and crafting superior experiences into every solution we build. Find out more about our Digital Services, and how UX and UI forms the foundation of our development process.

With today’s media workflows requiring more flexibility and increased efficiency, content teams need new ways to simplify complex tasks and optimise resources. At Codemill, we understand the challenges facing media companies on their journey to the cloud. If you need help streamlining processes and making your operations more intuitive, get in touch.