The Big Screen & Big Data at IBC 2013

The IBC Connected World looks at the impact of internet delivery and the new connectivity, both in and out of the home; IBC Workflow Solutions examines file-based production methods; IBC Production Insight is the place to test drive the latest camera kit; and the Future Zone is where many of the technologies that may completely change the industry in the future are first glimpsed outside of the R&D labs.

One of the areas is truly unique, however, in that it leverages the state of the art 1,700-seat Auditorium at the centre of the RAI conference centre, and that’s the IBC Big Screen. Designed to IBC’s specifications, the Auditorium features state-of-the-art projection and audio equipment, allowing for astonishing 4K and stereoscopic 3D digital projection, with audio presented in Dolby 7.1 surround sound.

All of which makes the IBC Big Screen the ideal location to see and hear the latest technical advances in cinema technology, as both manufacturers and conference sessions push it to its limits. It is also, of course, the venue for the high-profile, fast-paced celebration that is the IBC Awards, and is the perfect place to witness some of the best that Hollywood has to offer on some of the best theatre equipment with the ever-popular complimentary movie screenings.

The increasing impact of laser projection, higher framerates, colour management, getting the right look in 4K, the very latest advances in cinema audio...all these subjects and more will be examined at IBC2013 in the environment that suits them best – the IBC Big Screen.

Another subject that will be very much at the forefront of the debate and discussion at IBC this year will be Big Data. Indeed, it is the central subject of one of the core keynotes that dominate the conference agenda. Over the course of ‘Big Data - Broadcasting's New Oil or Digital Exhaust?’ on Sunday 13 September at13:30 some of the industry’s most prominent thought-leaders will discuss the science of data analytics and what it means for our industry.

There is no doubt that the ability to analyse massive volumes of data about customer behaviour, preferences and application performance looks to make it a perfect match for the broadcast and media industry at both the consumer and professional level. However, there are issues. How do you obtain the data in the first place? What are the ethical considerations? Can it really provide ROI? And can a form of mathematical modelling that helps supermarkets and other companies sell products really be ported over to the entertainment industry and help increase viewing figures for television programmes and cinema releases?

This session will look to provide some of the answers. Broadcasters undoubtedly have a need for better engagement, measurement and ultimately monetisation. Is Big Data the solution? You will find out here first.

To view the full IBC Conference Programme go to www.ibc.org/conferenceprogramme