Film/TV

Prime Focus Technologies (PFT) has signed a strategic deal with UK’s public service broadcaster, Channel 4 for managing media processing and centralised content operations using its flagship product, CLEAR Media ERP.

PFT will manage the following for Channel 4: media processing activities including ingest, content re-mediation, media management, content aggregation, quality assurance and processing functions within Channel 4’s content workflow; online services including DRM, VOD transcoding, packaging & delivery, simulcast and live to VoD. PFT will be responsible for providing all the content for Channel 4’s online presence, both on Channel 4’s own ‘All4’ platform, as well as third party platforms.

As a single software combining MAM capabilities with Work Order Management, CLEAR will enable Channel 4 to manage end-to-end media operations, including assets, resources, tasks and workflows. CLEAR’s best-in-class task management framework will improve collaboration across all internal and external stakeholders, including Channel 4’s Access services and Playout partners.

“We are delighted to be forming this new partnership with PFT, a company which shares Channel 4’s innovative spirit,” said Keith Underwood, COO, Channel 4. “PFT has proven experience of managing content operations for major international broadcasters, and we look forward to working with them to establish their new UK base.”

“We are excited to collaborate with a revered broadcaster like Channel 4, and the engagement marks a major landmark in our incredible journey of growth in the UK. We were chosen through a diligent evaluation process and look forward to delivering exceptional business value on the back of our automation-led technology and Cloud-enabled media services,” said Nick Kaimakami, Senior Vice President & Head – EMEA, Prime Focus Technologies. “To support our engagement with Channel 4, we will be creating job opportunities in the UK, and look forward to working with some of the best talent in the region.”

PFT also announced the launch of a Media Centre in the UK, which will act as the hub of centralised content operations for Channel 4. This new location will strengthen PFT’s presence in the UK and enable them to offer extensive local support to Channel 4.

CLEAR has been deployed successfully on Cloud for the last eleven years. It automates the content supply chain, and currently manages 1.5 million hours of content across 220+ multi-cloud locations. CLEAR helps content creators enhance efficiencies, lower costs and realise new monetisation opportunities.

PFT will be showcasing CLEAR with the latest powerful updates at IBC 2019 – Booth #7.C05.