The Digital Production Partnership has announced its first common technical standards, for delivery of content on tape. File-based delivery standards are expected before the end of the year.The DPP is a collaborative venture of all the leading UK broadcasters. It is funded and led by BBC, ITV and Channel 4, with the active participation of Channel Five and Sky. The independent production and post production sector is also represented on its working groups, with The Farm, Lime Pictures and Red Bee Media sitting on its technical standards panel.This gives authority to the delivery guidelines for picture and sound, which can now form part of the contractual relationship between broadcasters and producers. Now established in the UK, it is hoped that other markets will see the value in simple, clear, agreed standards.“Having one set of standards for HD delivery across the industry is of huge benefit in formalising current industry practice, rationalising delivery processes and saving costs for independent producers,” said Kevin Burrows of Channel 4, who is chair of the DPP technical standards working group. “This is a very welcome development.”More information on the DPP, and links to the technical standards, can be found at www.digitalproductionpartnership.co.uk
