Live Remote Production in the Cloud
“If you can’t tell the difference, why wouldn’t you do something
that makes more sense, requires less travel, and costs less?”
– Jeff Proctor, President, Proangle Media
Broadcasters have their heads in the Cloud and are reaping the rewards for it…
With the speed at which the Broadcast industry and technology is moving, it’s no longer a case of whether you will adopt cloud for your live productions, it is when.
What started as a movement among larger broadcasters is now being eagerly embraced by local and niche players alike. The shift to cloud-based live production isn’t just a trend—it’s a revolution. As technology advances, the benefits of the cloud, like increased flexibility, scalability, and cost-efficiency, are becoming indispensable for broadcasters of all sizes.
But wait, what does it mean when we say cloud?
When we say, “Cloud Live Productions”, we’re talking about the proven Vizrt and 3rd party live production tools used and loved by large and small broadcasters and content creators around the world but hosted as software-defined solutions in the cloud rather than installed on-premises.
This means all the powerful features you are used to—from intuitive 4K video switching and dynamic 3D/AR/VR broadcast-quality graphics to replay and slow-motion, seamless studio automation and precise audio mixing—are now accessible in the cloud.
Vizrt’s NDI® Cloud Advantage
What sets Vizrt apart in the cloud is our “NDI® advantage”. While many solutions offer cloud capabilities, Vizrt’s integration of NDI® (Network Device Interface) delivers a “cloud advantage” that others can’t match. NDI® acts as the “interoperability glue” that seamlessly connects all your tools, operators, cameras, and talent with unparalleled precision and performance. Everything you need for complete end-to-end live productions is available in the cloud, all powered by the superior connectivity and efficiency of NDI®.
What’s Really Prompting Broadcasters to Transition to the Cloud?
With more and more mainstream broadcasters adopting and integrating cloud-based live production tools – the question becomes why, and what are the key benefits?
Why are broadcasters turning to the cloud for core and ad-hoc programming?
The answer lies in its undeniable benefits: Not only does producing on cloud empower broadcasters to deliver superior content quality and significantly reduce their environmental footprint, but it also helps accelerate time-to-market, enhance operational flexibility, and optimize cost-efficiency, (among other things).That means more high-quality content that gets to market faster—by weeks or even months compared to traditional production. Not only that, but with less travel, fewer trucks, and minimal hardware, Cloud-based live production reduces broadcasters’ carbon footprint by more than 90% versus traditional broadcasts.
Why settle for less when the cloud opens up a world of possibilities? Read more about the many benefits of cloud in this detailed blog.
What Our Customers are Saying About the Cloud
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But what you have works just fine – why would you change things?
The traditional setup works, but only until there’s a failure. When you’re reliant on an individual operator’s skill in a specific location, a lot is riding on getting it right the first time. With Cloud Live Production, you no longer have just one shot. Flexibility is built right in.
July 2024’s crowdstrike event is a prime example of the truth that no systems are infallible, except that with cloud you get a critical safeguard against unexpected disruptions. Whether it’s a widespread IT issue, natural disaster, or other unforeseen events, putting traditional setup at risk, cloud can keep you on air, even when your primary systems go down.
By relying on cloud technology, you have the option of operating from anywhere, at any time, with redundancy spread across multiple geographically dispersed datacenters. This ensures that, in the face of disaster, you can continue broadcasting like normal. Simply turn on your cloud environment, bring in any data source, and go live… the cloud isn’t just about enhancing your current workflow; it’s about future-proofing your operations and ensuring business continuity no matter what challenges arise.
And we’re not suggesting that everyone should abandon their traditional setup and rush to the cloud right away. However, there are clear scenarios where the cloud is the ideal solution. For new studios, going the Cloud route can accelerate the setup process, enabling teams to get up and running quickly without the heavy investment in physical infrastructure. For on-location events, having cloud provides the flexibility to produce high-quality broadcasts from virtually anywhere, eliminating the logistical challenges of transporting bulky equipment and coordinating extensive on-site resources.
Bringing You to the Cloud with Vizrt
It’s now easier than ever to start – or continue – your cloud journey. Whether you’re just getting started with live productions and want a managed software-as-a-service “pay-as-you-go” cloud solution, or you’re looking to produce demanding content in the cloud how the NHL, Euroean League of Football, Sky, and Chess.com are, Vizrt can help.
TriCaster Now
TriCaster Now is a cloud-hosted SaaS version of a TriCaster system, hosted by Vizrt, in our AWS account. You do not need to worry about installing software or maintaining cloud environments – you simply pay for credits (which roughly translate into production hours), and then login online to produce your content as and when needed. Content creators who want to test the waters of cloud live productions with lower stakes, or those who only need to produce occasionally, would benefit from using TriCaster Now. Get started with the Discovery Pass, giving a month’s access for just $69!
TriCaster Vectar
TriCaster Vectar solves today’s production challenges and tomorrow’s changing demands as future-ready software forms the hub of connected digital media production ecosystems.
With anywhere-access to enterprise-grade 4K switching in the cloud. It enables real-time video switching and graphics integration in the cloud, supporting NDI®-native live production for seamless broadcast operations.
On-demand webinar
NDI®-native live production in the cloud with TriCaster Vectar
Change can be daunting, let us help!
Let us clear the clouds on some commonly asked questions
These are some common questions we’ve received from clients who are curious but hesitant about moving to the cloud:
Ready to deep dive in the world of cloud-based live productions?
Our Ultimate Guide to Cloud Live Productions should arm you with what you need to successfully get started with producing from anywhere, in the cloud.
Whether you’re new to cloud-based live productions or seeking to enhance your current capabilities, our guide offers expert guidance to unlock the full potential of cloud technology.
It covers important foundational concepts and practical insights, from getting off the ground with live cloud productions, calculating IT resources and costs, and more!