ESPN recently pulled off the first end-to-end cloud-based live-game production, a landmark moment for the future of cloud production (and a new record for back-to-back hyphenated words in a sentence). Other than a world with more hyphenated words, we wondered what the future of cloud production holds in store. By the time we put a period at the end of our first run-on sentence, ChatGPT already had it all written out. So to save us all some time, let’s just break down what the content cyborg, and early frontrunner for Time’s 2023 “person” of the year, had to say.
The future of cloud production in broadcast media is rapidly changing, with new advancements and technologies being developed every year. With the increasing demand for high-quality, engaging, and interactive content, cloud production is set to play a major role in the future of broadcast media. In this blog, we will explore some of the key trends and advancements in cloud production that are shaping the future of broadcast media.
Increased use of cloud-based workflows
Cloud-based workflows are becoming increasingly important in the production of broadcast media. With the ability to access data and resources from anywhere in the world, cloud workflows allow for greater collaboration and flexibility in the production process. For example, teams can work on projects together in real-time, regardless of location, without having to worry about the transfer of large files. Additionally, cloud-based workflows also offer cost savings by eliminating the need for expensive hardware and software.
Our thoughts: Spot on. Productions are looking for ways to save time and money while leveraging their resources from around the world. We recently saw FOX Sports lean into this with their digital productions of the 2022 World Cup. Portions of their team worked from Los Angeles while the production took place 9,000 miles away in Qatar.
Continued development of VR and AR
Virtual and augmented reality are set to play a major role in the future of cloud production. These technologies allow for immersive experiences that bring the audience closer to the action. For example, sports broadcasts can use AR to display real-time stats and player information directly onto the playing field, providing a more engaging viewing experience. In news broadcasts, AR can be used to display information and data in a way that helps the audience better understand complex subjects.
Our thoughts: Both have a place and will likely stick around, but our view of the media landscape shows producers and media executives being more bullish on AR over VR. We’ve seen awesome examples of AR success, one of the biggest probably being the Nickelodeon NFL-game coverage, complete with AR slime. We have also seen the Weather Channel and NASCAR really lean into AR to help viewers better understand what’s happening during a major storm or give viewers a look under the hood of a car.
AI and machine learning
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are set to become increasingly important in the future of cloud production in broadcast media. With its ability to process vast amounts of data in real-time, AI and machine learning can be used to automate many tasks in the production process, freeing up time for more creative and strategic tasks. For example, AI can be used to automatically generate captions, transcribe audio, or identify the best shots in a video.
Our thoughts: No bias here is there, GPT? We do agree however. Similar to this article, the human and AI combination create a valuable team that can operate at a previously unimaginable velocity. The less time producers spend on data entry and manual graphic builds, the more time they’ll have to ideate on new creative segments; Or maybe just create a little extra time to breathe and we can improve industry burnout rates.
Increased use of live streaming
Live streaming is set to become increasingly important in the future of cloud production in broadcast media. With the rise of online streaming and social media, live streaming offers a way to reach audiences in real-time, regardless of location. For example, live streaming can be used to broadcast events such as concerts, sports games, or news updates directly to viewers, allowing them to experience the event as if they were there.
Our thoughts: We look at the live streaming numbers every year and they continue to hold strong. From cross channel digital coverage, to alternate broadcasts, and e-gamers live streaming from their living rooms, cloud production gives content creators of all budgets the ability to tell their story. For audiences, accessibility plays a big role in the popularity; viewers want to be able to watch anytime, anywhere, and on any device.
Improved viewer experience
The user experience is set to become increasingly important in the future of cloud production in broadcast media. With the rise of online streaming and social media, audiences are becoming more accustomed to personalized and interactive content. In cloud production, this could mean allowing viewers to customize the way they view content, or allowing them to interact with the content in real-time. For example, during a sports broadcast, viewers could choose to view stats and information on their favorite players, or select from different camera angles.
Our thoughts: The personalized viewing experience was our top trend of 2023. Viewers want more control over what’s on their screen and more meaningful interactivity within the broadcast. We have seen the impact of the latter, and how real-time interactions help to grow audience loyalty to your program. It’s working, winning broadcasters EMMY’s, and there is still room for growth.
In conclusion, the future of cloud production in broadcast media is rapidly changing, with new advancements and technologies being developed every year. With the increased use of cloud-based workflows, virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence and machine learning, live streaming, and improved user experience, the future of cloud production in broadcast media is poised to be more engaging, informative, and interactive than ever before.
Our thoughts: This reads like every conclusion we ever wrote in elementary school. No shade though, not when you’re typing 750 words per minute.
