BBC Academy workshop on Multiplatform and on-demand interactive services

 

BBC’s leading expert in multiplatform technology, Andy Wilson held a session acquainting the audiences on interactive services and production workflows across IP platforms including mobile phones and TV sets.

In relation to the recent technological advancements, Wilson highlighted the fact that many gadgets are produced by machines and less human work force is required, sighting an example of the BBC Academy online web pages which work by a software called Program Information Tool (PIT) which enables all the pieces of data to come together as a BBC created tool. As per the commands are placed, the software updates graphics onto the web pages and writes the program. Due to this software, the assistant producer simply monitors the commands and development of the web pages.

The most important rule in creating these web pages is deciding what content makes the final cut. It may not be important but could possibly be interesting; differentiating between the two is the important factor.

While discussing about the latest technologies such as the innovative tablet, specifically the iPad, Wilson believes that an iPad can provide growth in children by the variety of apps available. He also accentuated the role that BBC’s integrated media plan has played, where-in viewers can tune in from their mobile phones, tablets or TV sets into any program on-demand of their preferred choice. As per the statistics provided by Wilson, the on-demand programming reached to 89.7 million in December, 2010 and 187 million TV and radio requests in December, 2011, an ever-going number indeed.

If you’re interested, you can attend the workshop tomorrow, March 1 between 1.00pm to 2.00pm.

By Samiha S. Naaz and Mary Joy

The writers are final year journalism students from Manipal University, Dubai