Viz Pilot Edge 3.4: Powered up template building for power users

Template designers will find a suite of updates that make creating advanced templates more efficient and precise. Key highlights include:

Advanced Scripting and API Capabilities

• Script Units: Reusable code blocks that can be stored centrally, referenced and reused across multiple templates. Instead of duplicating the same logic across templates, teams can now build once and reuse these code blocks everywhere, eliminating repetitive work and reducing the chance of errors. It also supports cleaner scripting, by breaking complex coding to smaller, functional chunks, which makes it easier to build and maintain templates, and for designers to collaborate on template building.
• Other scripting Improvements: 
  These updates unlock new possibilities for advanced graphics creation, such as:
  • Access to more field types for building sophisticated templates like sports league tables.
  • Write access to field labels and max lengths, offering greater customization.
  • Hidden expressions for HTML panels/fragments, enabling more dynamic and interactive templates.
  • OnAfterSave Event and Execute onLoad in Browse Mode: Enhances scripting flexibility, particularly for RTL (right-to-left) workflows.

Leveraging MOS XML

Template Builder can now ‘communicate’ directly with newsroom systems (e.g., iNews, ENPS, or Saga), dynamically populating graphics with editorial content such as lower thirds without manual copy-pasting. Read and set custom MOS external metadata in the MOS XML via scripting to control studio automation and cameras, for instance.

• No hardcoding required: Leverage external metadata blocks and JSON payloads for a flexible, future-proof system adaptable to any source or structure without having to change the core template.
• Real-world example: A third-party AI tool suggests content for graphics, which is pushed into Viz Pilot Edge via a custom MOS metadata block. Journalists can edit the content in real time, and the updates are instantly reflected in the newsroom system.

Structured Field Linking

Dramatically speed up template creation by auto-filling multiple fields with a single click, pulling structured data directly from the feed browser. No formatting or scripting needed. Perfect for live events, social media updates, live sports or recurring stories.

Other improvements:

• Copy & Paste Fields and Fragments: Reuse elements across tabs and templates effortlessly, saving time and effort.
• Duplet and Triplet Widgets: These bundled values make it easier to group and update related parameters, offering flexibility and speed in template creation.
• Alignment Tools: Ensure polished, professional designs with precise alignment options.
• Undo/Redo: Easily correct errors or revisit previous steps.

Journalist-Centric Improvements

Journalists will appreciate updates that simplify their workflows and reduce friction in getting graphics to air fast.

• Improved Viz GH Folder Browsing: A more intuitive way to find and access visual elements like images and logos, reducing friction in their creative process.
• Videowall and Multiplay Presets: Now with the ability to loop video content in the videowall.
• Reset Field Values: Users can quickly revert to default settings.

These may look like small improvements but together they represent a significant leap forward in efficiency, flexibility, and precision for both journalists and designers. Whether you’re creating and publishing templates for live sports, breaking news, or recurring stories, Viz Pilot Edge 3.4 is designed to make your workflow faster, smarter, and more intuitive.