Sony partners with NRK to pilot new cloud-based toolset

Sony has partnered with Norwegian public broadcaster NRK on a proof-of-concept project that will create a new cloud-based automated production toolset.

Designed to refine the production process by removing the duplication of metadata entry combined with automated content management, the toolset, currently codenamed ‘Metadata Wrangler’, has successfully increased production efficiency and reduced costs during production of a primetime cookery show.

The toolset allows for direct upload of proxy versions of recordings to Sony Ci cloud service for immediate access and reviewing, rather than using the technical process of handling content upload later in the process. This ensures staff not at the shoot location have quick and easy access to new content, and can concentrate on the creative process.

A micro-service addition to Sony’s Ci media cloud, Metadata Wrangler works by automatically connecting files (in this case proxy files) from connected cameras with existing preproduction metadata sourced from production planning. Incoming files are identified, populated with metadata, and placed in the appropriate cloud folders, making them easily searchable by editors and production staff.

Trond Ramberg, technology supervisor, post-production workflow, NRK, commented: “We are constantly working on streamlining and simplify our post-production workflow and seeking the right tools that support our strategy of delivering high-quality TV series with limited technical resources. This project gives valuable insights to both sides and we appreciate the opportunity to discuss our ideas and what to expect from the market when it comes to meeting our challenges.

“For us, transferring proxy versions of captured footage directly from the camera to a server or cloud service has shown a great production value. This combined with an early metadata harvest and preservation all the way to the editing stage is an important measure for efficient media management. If solved, this has the potential to become a game-changer for the industry”

Developed by Sony engineers in the European headquarters, Metadata Wrangler is built to work on Sony’s Ci media cloud platform, a media-centric cloud environment with applications that empower media companies with remote teams to leverage the scalability and availability of the cloud to streamline production, editorial, and delivery workflows.

“At Sony we seek to understand the common challenges faced by our customers and partners and look for opportunities to address these with innovative solutions,” commented Claus Pfeifer, head of connected content acquisition at Sony Professional Solutions Europe. “To pilot Metadata Wrangler we needed the right type of customer that was willing to work alongside us to bring the product to life. NRK’s opportunistic outlook and pioneering technological spirit provided the perfect partnership for the product’s development.”

Metadata Wrangler is currently under development at Sony. Any plans for future commercialisation will be announced at a later date.