The main advantage of transitioning to cloud-based video delivery is cost savings. When video is transmitted via a cloud-based platform, there are no capital expenses. The only costs incurred are operational, on a pay-as-you-need basis. Operational savings are also realized, since there are no physical racks in the headend to maintain.

Another benefit of cloud distribution is flexibility. Nowadays, broadcasters need to react quickly when news happens, and a video distribution platform that can be operated in virtualized mode will enable instant streaming. For example, during the recent terrorist attacks in Paris, broadcasters were scrambling to report on the latest developments. Some news organizations turned to a cloud-based video distribution system to speed up operations.

With cloud technology, equipment upgrades are also simpler. A video distribution system that is software-based can be upgraded in five minutes or less, enabling broadcasters to support new features, video formats, streaming protocols, and more, with ease.

In addition, cloud-based video distribution systems significantly enhance the scalability of a broadcaster’s digital mobile newsgathering operation. Broadcasters can start by receiving video streams from a small number of video encoders or transmitters in the field, and easily and affordably add more units based on their needs.

Key Requirements for a Cloud-based Video Delivery System

There are a few key features broadcasters should look for in a cloud-based video delivery system. Interoperability with other systems is critical. Broadcasters need a studio application that can receive streams from a wide range of encoders and transmitters out in the field, including third-party platforms.

It’s also important to choose a system that supports a wide range of industry streaming protocols such as HLS, TS/IP, RTSP/RTP, RTMP, etc. This will ensure a smooth streaming performance for viewers on a wide range of devices.

Reliability is another crucial requirement. During a major news event cellular wireless networks can become congested. Using a video distribution system that is capable of detecting and aggregating multiple IP-based networks (e.g., 3G, 4G, WiFi, Ethernet, and satellite) will ensure superior connectivity.

Broadcasters will also want to choose a system that is easy to use. Selecting a video distribution system with an intuitive web user interface, such as AVIWEST’s DMNG StreamHub, will allow broadcasters to monitor operations remotely. Broadcasters can easily control and manage a fleet of remote transmitters, optimize, and monitor the video transmissions utilizing advanced features such as video thumbnails and statistics.

Finally, broadcasters will want to ensure they can easily communicate with the news crew in the field. Finding a video distribution system with an IFB application enables broadcasters to communicate with remote transmitter operators over two-way audio channels.

Future Outlook for the Cloud

According to the market research firm Devoncroft Partners, the 2015 BBS Broadcast Industry Global Trend Index ranked “cloud computing/virtualization” as the No. 5 trend. Using a cloud-based solution like AVIWEST’s DMNG StreamHub system for breaking news and events coverage, broadcasters and other video professionals can dramatically increase operational efficiency, lower costs, and improve flexibility and scalability while delivering high-quality video, including live and on-demand content.

As of yet, the rate of adoption for cloud-based technologies has been relatively slow in the broadcast industry, but as broadcasters continue to look for new ways to reduce CAPEX and OPEX, many will be migrating toward video distribution in the cloud in the near future.