4 Steps to Understanding the Future of Content Distribution

4 steps to understanding the future of content distribution IMF INTEROPERABLE MASTER FORMAT 00 As digital distribution replaces tape-based workflows, the IMF (Interoperable Master Format) has been created to provide a universal master format for content distribution across multiple channels. 1. Why is there a need for a universal master format? A universal master format will simplify and streamline distribution by reducing the need for: MULTIPLE VERSIONS of each piece of MULTIPLE AUDIO MIXES MULTIPLE EDITS MULTIPLE DELIVERY FORMATS including numerous including censure edits, localisation edits, the director's internet, mobile devices, cut and more content for different versions for cinema, broadcast, international film for subtitling and closed captioning and TV distribution airlines and OTT 2. What's so great about IMF? a) ONE FINAL MASTER FILE b) EFFICIENT CONTENT EXCHANGE IMF provides an industry-standard, high-quality final master file. If offers one place to store all the assets (image, audio, subtitling and captioning) and metadata, (technical data and playlists) related to a specific film, episode or piece of content. IMF maximises the efficiency of content exchange between content owners, distributors, service providers and multiple file destinations (theatres, broadcast, OTT such as Netflix and packaged media). c) MEZZANINE-LEVEL COMPRESSION d) LOW COST, FAST DISTRIBUTION IMF minimises storage requirements by using mezzanine-level compression and storing only the differences between the original versions and the version file. IMF lowers the costs of making and storing multiple masters and assets for the same piece of content, improving time to market and streamlining global distribution. c) IMPROVED CUSTOMER SERVICE IMF improves the customer experience by increasing the availability of audio and video assets, metadata and artwork localised by region. 3. Who created IME? It was devised by SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers), supported by over 100 companies worldwide. Among the major studios, platforms and broadcasters behind the initiative are FOX, Warner Brothers, Sony, NBCUniversal, Disney and Netflix. 66 Now is the time for us to collectively move to the next generation of file-based deliveries and the true industry standard of IMF Chris Fetner - Netflix NETFLIX FOX VARNER BROS PTCTURE DisnEp SONY NBCUniversal Some of the many supporters of SMPTE (Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers) 4. How can it help me? Use the IMF diagram below to gain a clearer understanding of the process and to find out how the universal master format would benefit you. IMACE LANGUACE SURTITLE VERSIONS TRACKS TRACKS digital cinema DIGITAL INTERMEDIATE blu-ray PICTURE Editorial DVD IPTV wholesalers IMF Color Conform correction MASTERING retailers web SOUND channels cell Sound Mix moble other device VFX PRODUCTION POST-PRODUCTION DISTRIBUTION SERVICING DISTRIBUTION www.visualdatamedia.com VERSIONS