Language Metadata Table
The Language Metadata Table (LMT) standard was created to provide a unified source of reference for language codes for use throughout the media and entertainment industries. LMT’s Working Group mission is:
- To create a standardized table of language codes for implementation by entertainment and other industries using IETF BCP 47.
- To facilitate efficient and consistent LMT usage through best practices.
- To extend LMT code values through vetted field definitions and approved language code values with a community of thought leaders who focus on information and data from the business, professional associations and academic institutions through the exchange of knowledge and collaboration.
Conceived by HBO, MESA supports the LMT Working Group as one of its communities of practice. Co-Chaired by Yonah Levenson, metadata strategy consultant, Meg Morrissey, Senior DAM Architect for MediaValet, and Jaclyn Zepnick, Senior Data Librarian for Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution at The Walt Disney Company, the group meets regularly to further the efforts of this initiative.
Since LMT’s initial release, the Working Group, whose members include representation from HBO, Turner, Warner Bros, Disney, WWE, NBCUniversal, Paramount, Sony Pictures, Showtime, Lionsgate, Fox, among others, have reached agreement on:
- Language terms, definitions, and examples
- Template for adding new languages
- Includes 240 language codes and display values – with another 100+ being researched
WarnerMedia (includes HBO) encourages industry adoption of the IETF BCP 47 languages standard and, in the spirit of industry collaboration, granted MESA the rights to publish HBO’s work and continue the efforts LMT Working Committee.
If you are interested in participating in MESA’s LMT Working Group CLICK HERE to apply.
Next steps include:
- Partnering with SMPTE to define and document the policies and procedures for adding new languages including validation services
- Updating LMT 3.3 with additional languages
- Partnering with other standards organizations including EIDR, ISDCF, and MovieLabs to strengthen LMT and support adoption
LMT v4.0 –April 25, 2022:
The LMT Co-chairs are pleased to share with you the newest update to the Language Metadata Table. Please contact LMT if you have questions/comments/feedback at [email protected]
SMPTE’s Validation Tool’s Alpha Release Code
LMT Validation Tool Video Overview
Smart Content Summit LA Presentation
Smart Content Summit East Presentation
NAB Show New York Presentation
Original LMT Press Release: August 7, 2018
Meg Morrissey of Disney – New LMT Co-Chair Press Release: January 26, 2021
SMPTE Brings First-of-a-Kind LMT Register – Press Release: February 9, 2021
For additional information, or to learn more, contact:
LMT Working Group Chairs
[email protected]
Mary Yurkovic, Director, MESA’s Smart Content Council [email protected]