The broadcast industry is rapidly evolving, and Human-Machine Interface (HMI) solutions are playing a critical role in improving the glass-to-glass process, streamlining workflows and enhancing the day-to-day user experience. In recent years the broadcast industry has had to overcome the challenges presented by a global pandemic, and the evolution of AI. Prior to 2020, location and proximity to technology were paramount to managing workflows and operating a control desk. During the pandemic, broadcast organisations had to adapt to work remotely, resulting in a shift in mindset and technology requirements. Five years on, the way broadcast operations function continues to evolve.
Here are the top four broadcast industry technology trends observed by Densitron, a leading provider of HMI solutions to the industry, and the solutions identified to address these and enable broadcasters to improve the workflow of their broadcast control room.
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Touchscreen and multi-touch interfaces, haptic feedback and tactile controls
Traditionally, broadcast control rooms were operated with manual controls and analogue equipment. The shift towards interactive touchscreens and a more intuitive experience has been slower than in other industries, but we have seen a desire to utilise the intuitive technology used in our personal lives, such as smartphones and smart appliances.
A hybrid solution that combines touchscreen flexibility with mechanical tactility has proven to be the perfect solution for many, where the display can be configured by the customer and integrated with the software of their choice. Densitron’s range of innovative rack-mounted control surfaces incorporate tactile technology such as jog dials and haptic feedback with touchscreen functionality, giving customers the flexibility and control they need.
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The rapid increase in content demand
Currently, broadcast operations must scale their infrastructure to support higher volumes of content, in terms of production and delivery. This requires significant investment in teams, hardware and software solutions. Quality remains paramount, leading to challenges in efficient content creation, curation and management, especially when working with a large and diverse array of media assets.
Having the right technology to process and deliver the content is key and Densitron’s IDS software solution is providing a crucial remedy. As a universal control system that seamlessly integrates into existing broadcast infrastructures, IDS enables broadcasters to accelerate output and enhance production workflows, effectively delivering increasing volumes of content. Infinitely scalable, IDS can manage any device across any network, bringing together a wide range of equipment and workflows in a single easy to use interface.
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Customisable software and finished hardware
Another trend Densitron is observing is the demand for fully customisable HMI solutions that need to be cost-effective, as broadcasters are being driven to deliver more with less. Developing and implementing advanced HMIs with high levels of customisation requires an investment of both money and time. Time that they know customers would rather spend focused on creating compelling content.
To meet this growing need, Densitron offers complete flexibility by manufacturing both hardware and software solutions, such as a range of highly customisable broadcast control panels which either work with the customer’s choice of software, or a complete solution is developed on their behalf.
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Balancing simplicity with advanced technology
Broadcast facilities usually require a range of equipment, all with powerful control interfaces that are part of a complex workflow usually operated by trained technical and engineering staff. The demographic of these users is changing, with more embracing digital technology that requires less technical expertise.
Striking the balance between the advanced features needed for high quality productions, with the user-expectation to access information quickly, easily and control the workflow efficiently, is one of today’s biggest challenges.
With Densitron, customers can overcome this challenge by choosing out-of-the-box solutions such as ProDeck, a professional-grade desktop control solution that effortlessly drives efficiencies and enhances the viewer experience.
The ProDeck also appeals to the increase in influencers and gamers who are creating their own content to broadcast to online audiences, from their own homes and requiring a straightforward, ‘plug and play’ solution that enables them to manage their hardware, software and streaming platform in one place.
For more information about Densitron or any of our products and services please contact our team: [email protected]
