3 Ways Hybrid Cloud Production Benefits Live Broadcasting
A powerful tool for broadcasters
While cloud production is a game-changer for broadcast content creators and distributors, many customers have adopted a hybrid cloud production model, in which a mix of cloud-based and ground-based technologies, operated by remote and on-site personnel, work in conjunction with one another. Hybrid production is especially valuable for broadcasters who want to maximize the ROI of their existing ground-based infrastructure while realizing the benefits of cloud production.
Why explore hybrid cloud production?
To understand how hybrid production benefits producers, consider what makes it unique. In hybrid production, producers employ a mix of virtual cloud-based and ground-based technologies. It differs from live cloud production, where production, distribution and delivery all happen in the cloud, and from remote production, where onsite and remote crews collaborate using technologies such as IP-enabled cameras, remote control systems and high-speed internet.
All three forms of cloud production have compelling attributes. This article highlights compelling advantages associated with hybrid cloud production.
To learn more about the three forms of cloud-based broadcast production, click here.
1. Scale production to meet demand
Whereas a ground-based production operation has finite capabilities, hybrid cloud production enables broadcasters to exploit on-premises and cloud-based infrastructure to scale resources dynamically as needed. Resource-heavy operations such as transcoding, rendering and data storage now take place in the cloud, making it easier – and far less costly – for broadcasters to scale up or down to handle large-scale live events or sudden spikes in demand.
Moreover, additional production resources like virtual machines, storage capacity and media processing services can be accessed on-demand without forcing broadcasters to maintain excess capacity from their ground-based infrastructure. Note, too, that the cloud doesn’t just enable scalability, it dramatically speeds resource setup when broadcasters need to adjust their capabilities to the demands of the moment.
2. The advantage of flexibility
When talented, knowledgeable professionals from around the world can collaborate remotely, best-of-breed teams can be assembled quickly, economically, and efficiently. That gives you the flexibility to do create more varied and distinctive content than ever before.
Additionally, hybrid cloud production strengthens an operation’s resiliency by enhancing its ability to adapt to fast-changing circumstances. Plans, workflows, and resources can be adjusted in response to unexpected events, technical problems, or schedule shifts without causing noticeable disruptions to the viewing experience. Relatedly, hybrid production offers redundancy and disaster recovery capabilities that minimize downtown and maintain high availability in the face of hardware failures, network outages, and other performance issues.
3. Gains in cost efficiency
From reduced infrastructure costs to predictable pricing, improved scalability, and streamlined operations, hybrid production can be a boon for cost efficiency.
For one thing, cloud-accessible resources dramatically reduce the need for high-dollar physical infrastructure, such as broadcast studios, control rooms and production facilities. Capital investment goes down, as do ongoing maintenance costs. Remember also that most cloud service providers offer pay-per-use or subscription pricing, which transforms major capital expenses into manageable operational ones. Whether you are scaling up or down, resource utilization becomes easier, and costs generally decrease.
In addition, hybrid cloud production speeds and smooths workflows, automates processes and integrates collaboration capabilities to enhance production efficiency. And don’t forget that it also cuts labor costs, minimizes overhead, and optimizes resource use by leveraging talent and cloud-based workflows. Moreover, the replication of production assets and workflows across cloud regions and data centers further boosts efficiency by decreasing downtime and ensuring high availability.
Realizing the potential of hybrid cloud production
Whether you produce for broadcasting, sports or Esports, corporate, and other industries, hybrid production provides new tools and capabilities to stand out in a competitive marketplace. Content creation can be made easier and more efficient, and you’ll be able to take on a wider range of projects without corresponding infrastructure investment. The key to getting full benefit from hybrid cloud production is to sync existing ground-based infrastructure with the tools you’ll access in the cloud. Plan carefully at the outset, and you’ll be amazed by what you achieve going forward.
