BBC Worldwide has expanded its contract with EBS to include non-linear EPG data services. BBC Worldwide has installed EBS’ multi-platform, multi-territory Pawa EPG software system, which provides a solution to the data workflow issue that many broadcasters and content owners now face when sending data to VoD and download-to-own (DTO) platforms, such as iTunes, Netflix, Google Play and Amazon Instant Video. BBC Worldwide operators will use the Pawa system to automatically generate templates for non-linear distribution.
With the advent of catch-up, VoD and DTO, broadcasters are required to distribute programme information that is no longer necessarily tied to the date and time of broadcast. Broadcasters need to control the EPG data workflow, using a system that can drive both linear and non-linear data via a single database.
Using EBS’ Pawa software, which acts as a single, central repository, BBC Worldwide is able to achieve this whilst managing its data internally. Due to the accessibility of data via a browser, the system can be rolled out across many users and areas of the organisation, which also allows Pawa to be used as an internal database for programme information.
Pawa allows BBC Worldwide to import listings from a variety of formats, storing them in one central location, where its operators can edit, enhance and manage data before distributing to the platform where listings are required. Operators can run validation reports prior to sending files to VoD/DTO platforms. These reports highlight required information that is missing, or data that is present but not suitable, such as synopsis too long. Once the data is prepared, Pawa then generates the correct files for each platform, with many VoD and DTO platforms using different templates.
“We are delighted to announce that BBC Worldwide is using Pawa to deliver data to VoD and DTO platforms,” said Keith Bedford, EBS managing director. “This is a very challenging issue for broadcasters who want to have control of the EPG data supplied to multiple platforms and also want to be able to provide that data from a single database. Pawa gives back that control providing a highly efficient and reliable service.”
