What is Broadcast Automation Software?
The purpose of Broadcast Automation Software is to automate tasks that were previously done by operators in TV stations to save time and money by improving and streamlining workflow. In the early days of television everything was done by hand and operators were on staff 24/7 in every TV station making sure that tape decks were queued up for each program and triggering switchers and other devices to provide TV programming to viewers. Today, many of the mundane, repetitive tasks previously done by operators can now be done by software which allows stations to operate with a leaner staff and reduce errors. If you are looking for a new video playback automation system or have an interest in learning how video automation software can help your facility improve operations or save money it's appropriate to discover what broadcast automation software can and should do for your operation.
Beginning with content acquisition Broadcast Automation should automate the movement of files through your system to reduce errors and speed delivery of finished files.
Staff is usually tight and pressed for time so your video automation system should provide you with the ability to schedule any program for recording or encoding regardless of source (satellite, live event, tape, digtal file, etc.). Once recorded the file should move automatically to production, storage or playback as needed to free up operators for other duties.
Scheduling should be seamless and provide a variety of ways to add a schedule to the system. Not just one or two ways but multiple ways such as importing from a traffic system, spreadsheet or database, mass program scheduling using fast and easy drag 'n drop, block scheduling to lock in time slots for specific programs or a series, copy and paste to one or multiple days, remote scheduling using a laptop or smartphone or direct network access from another department so you can create and update schedules when and how you need too. The system should also notify the operator when a file or program is not available or missing and needs to be located to avoid errors.
Playback should be reliable and provide real-time information on-screen so the operator can instantly see the schedule progress. Should a problem occur the system should notify the operator immediately so corrective action can be taken whether the personnel are in the station or not.
Important housekeeping duties such as schedule back-ups, file back-ups and archiving should function automatically without operator intervention and the system should be able to create reports either automatically or manually to meet reporting and administrative requirements.
Are you considering a new automation system or finding your current system is causing more work than necessary? Are you under pressure to reduce or reallocate staff for budget cuts? Is your station expanding but you find your existing system is limited or not expandable to meet your needs? For more information on understanding workflow please download our free Broadcast Automation Checklist.
Synergy Broadcast’s Automation software (VLM or Video Library Manager) is a full-featured, multi channel, video automation solution designed for today's broadcast and cable provider with features built around operational efficiencies.
VLM provides a single application interface to manage key areas such as:
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Device Control for Serial, IR, IP or GPI
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Workflow management for Production, Archiving, Traffic, Playback, Streaming, and Video On Demand.
VLM is an easy-to-use broadcast automation solution that is flexible and expandable to meet the needs of busy, staff-starved TV operations.