BBC World Service migrates to IP distribution with Encompass

Encompass Digital Media has signed a multi-year contract with the BBC World Service to provide content distribution to approximately 1,000 partner and affiliate sites in over 100 countries worldwide.

The agreement will see Encompass deploy Altitude Connect, a fully managed IP alternative to traditional satellite distribution, offering the BBC a flexible, reliable and cost-efficient service that provides targeted programming to specific locations. While primarily using IP, a hybrid solution enables the use of satellite to reach regions not yet fully served by the internet.

Encompass will deliver BBC World Service TV and radio content for up to 42 language services, utilising six geographically diverse Altitude Media Cloud regions and ultimately on to a mixture of TV partners, FM relay sites and radio partner sites. Encompass will use SmartSwitch, a managed satellite-to-IP transition service, to migrate the BBC’s complex global network. Encompass’ London Media Centre will also provide full-time monitoring and management with real-time visibility and reporting.

“We are honoured to be working with the BBC on this innovative distribution service and to be trusted with their global content output,” said Marc Bruce, Encompass CEO. “Altitude Connect is fast becoming the go-to solution for broadcasters looking to lower costs and migrate their satellite distribution to IP delivery. We look forward to continuing to grow our strong relationship with the BBC in the years to come.”

Nigel Fry, director distribution, international services at the BBC, said: “Throughout the tender process, we were very impressed with the Encompass team and their can-do attitude to addressing our complex distribution needs while delivering operational savings for the BBC.”