As the media and broadcast industry puts its final IBC preparations together, we can’t help but wonder what the show will bring this year. A lot has changed since the last IBC back in 2019, and although we don’t like to mention Covid, it has to be acknowledged for its huge impact on the broadcasting sector. We haven’t seen each other for a couple of years, but we did develop some brilliant and innovative tools and solutions which will shape the industry for years to come.
The pandemic has certainly given many technology vendors more time to think about what it is that we want to achieve in our businesses and offered perspective on the things that matter. And those that don’t.
The Cerberus Tech team will be attending IBC from 9th – 12th September, but with a different outlook and objectives from our previous visits. Here are my thoughts ahead of IBC 2022:
1. Nothing can replicate the in-person event
Have trade shows lost their appeal? No. Although the structure of a large-scale industry exhibition seems a little outdated, nothing can replace the experience of networking with colleagues, friends, customers, suppliers, and prospects, face-to-face. Conversations don’t flow through video calls in the same way as when you’re speaking directly. Not only do physical interactions spark new discussions, it’s also the best way of getting a real understanding of someone and relationships with suppliers and customers become better established with an in-person meeting.
2. There’s freedom in flexibility
Cerberus Tech decided not to take an exhibition space at IBC this year. Although it is useful to have a base to refer prospects to, I didn’t want myself or my team to feel fixed to one spot. IBC is a vast, diverse show and I want us all to enjoy the freedom of moving around and seeing as many people as possible.
We are, of course, booking meetings in advance of the show and in addition to various commitments we have at the show we will be stopping by to see many exhibitors to explore the latest industry developments. Cerberus Tech’s solutions are built for interoperability, so finding new technology partnerships and opportunities for innovation is always welcome.
The great thing about working within broadcast-grade IP and cloud based services is that our solution demos are so portable there’s no need for the team to be tied down. So if you do see us walking the show floor come over and say hello.
3. Conversations are key
Although we aren’t exhibiting at the show, we will still have lots to talk about. As always, we are keen to connect with as many people as possible about IP contribution and distribution, and how the broadcast industry is evolving. I am looking forward to conversations with those that have a genuine interest in IP workflow adoption and expansion. These conversations are always enlightening, and it is great to share some of the recent developments in cloud-native broadcast workflows. Especially when we explain how an Infrastructure as a Service model adapts to dynamically solve broadcast challenges.
As well as attending the main show, we will be among the sponsors at the SVG Sport Production Summit on Thursday 8th August. Our team will be available to chat, so come along and ask more about our recent projects, including our ongoing work with RMG to transport live horse racing coverage to APAC, or how Livelink is being used this season for domestic and international football distribution by QTV.
4. The power of partnerships
As well as discussing our own ‘wins’, it is important for us to champion our technical and strategic partners within the industry. Cerberus Tech values these relationships, both in the context of offering end to end workflows and more comprehensive features but also because these connections benefit the industry as a whole. Going back to my first point; relationships are crucial and when vendors work together, great things happen. Cerberus Tech has some exciting projects in the pipeline especially around a new on demand file transcoding service in partnership with our long term partner Ateme. So get in touch to book a meeting and find out more.
5. Not forgetting the fun
What’s IBC without an element of fun?! Inevitably, many of us will end up on a boat, at a party and in the Old Bell at some point over the weekend, and it’s possible that this is where some of the most important conversations will happen. Some of our best connections have started over a drink (or two)! If you feel you’d rather get to know us in a more social environment we are hosting an evening drinks reception (party!) on saturday evening so get in touch if you’d like to attend.
The broadcast tech industry is diverse and innovative, and events like IBC will set the tone for the coming months – it will be great to connect in-person again. Regardless of whether you’re attending or exhibiting at IBC this year, the show is sure to be enjoyed by all. The Cerberus Tech team is certainly looking forward to exploring more of our vibrant industry, sharing our recent and upcoming news, and building connections. See you at the show!
