Over the next five days IBC invites you to mix, debate and to do business with up to 50,000 fellow professionals engaged in advancing electronic media and entertainment. We are proud that IBC is a fixture on the calendars of so many influential and inspirational members of the international community. IBC gives the most senior executives in media organisations a forum to meet and discuss strategic issues from governmental regulation to content rights and consumer needs in a multi-platform world. Despite the financial pressures in some regions of the world, exhibitors have shown continued confidence in us. Indeed visitors can explore a record amount of space, across 14 halls, packed with exciting new technology from over 1,300 innovative companies. Their response to IBC2012 confirms, I believe, that IBC is seen as an essential part of growing their long-term business. There are a host of activities to intrigue and excite visitors whatever your interest from cloud computing or the latest satellite uplink technology through to mobile TV and over the top services to the home. The core exhibition is supported by a host of special sessions, unique demonstrations and unsurpassed networking opportunities in a business friendly and highly productive environment. The IBC Big Screen features previews of high resolution digital imaging and our Future Zone contains leading edge R&D. We’ve focused all the latest technology and services trailblazing the IBC Connected World into Hall 14 and introduced a new Workflow Solutions Village dedicated to troubleshooting file-based production in Hall 9. All of this sits in parallel with a powerful IBC Conference, which puts rapid technical change in context and provides a platform for thought leaders to set the industry’s agenda. Welcome to IBC2012. Make it yours. Have a great show. – Michael Crimp, CEO, IBC
