Fifty years ago, a small group of people from the broadcast industry decided that the market deserved a world-class convention. The plan was to include a conference alongside an exhibition, with the aim of driving conversations and sharing experiences, rather than just selling kit.
They called it the International Broadcasting Convention, and 50 years on, IBC is still going strong. It is, without a doubt, the one must-see event if you want to keep up to date with the latest trends in technology, creativity and business.
Perhaps more important, IBC is an key enabler for change in the industry.
It is in the conversations at IBC that decisions are made, that things happen.
To take just one example, last year we pulled off an incredible achievement, with our partners, in building the first IP Interoperability Zone, bringing together large numbers of different vendors to demonstrate that the next stage of the IP transition, live production, was practical.
Since then, we have seen new standards like SMPTE ST 2110, initiatives like AMWA NMOS, and the widespread acceptance of the AIMS roadmap for the future. All of this and more will be marked in this year’s IP Showcase which will include presentations and case studies in a dedicated theatre as well as the interoperability demonstrations.
How are we able to facilitate progress like this? By doing exactly what the founders did 50 years ago. IBC is, and has always been, organised by the industry, for the industry.
Our structure ensures we look ahead at what the key issues are going to be, addressing them appropriately whether that is through dedicated zones on the show floor or in special strands across the conference.
We are, of course, celebrating our golden anniversary. But primarily IBC is looking forward. Our role is to provide the forum at which ideas are developed and business is done. On behalf of the whole IBC team, welcome to Amsterdam. I hope your time here is productive and successful.
