RDF Rights embarks on digital initiative

08 April 2010

RDF Rights (RDFR), part of the RDF Media Group, is launching a digital initiative which transforms its current distribution of programmes to broadcast clients; moving from traditional DigiBeta to file-based digital delivery of master materials. The plan will also mean that going forward, RDFR will archive all media digitally. 

RDFR is also upgrading its digital online screening service which is available to buyers via the RDFR website. The system, devised and run by OTV, will offer buyers downloadable and portable screening files, in addition to the current streaming service. This upgrade will make the screening service more flexible for buyers wishing to screen programmes away from their desks.

Jane Millichip, COO of RDFR said: “We are already delivering around 20% of master materials digitally on an ad-hoc basis, so we know there is a demand from broadcasters. Despite the capital outlay, we will be able to pass on both cost savings and the considerable environmental benefits to our broadcast clients. With no customs or couriers to deal with the system will also be more reliable and efficient.”

Unlike most distributors, RDFR has its own post-production facility. Mark Glennon, RDFR’s Post Production Manager, who designed the upgrade said: “Once this upgrade has been completed RDFR will be able to provide content in a fast, secure and environmentally friendly manner. Our system will ensure cost efficient creation and transfer of materials while also giving us further advantages in terms of enhanced quality control and speed of delivery.”

Notes to editors:

RDFR will be implementing a range of new software in order for the proposal to work. Root 6 will supply RDFR with ‘Content Agent’; software that will enable RDFR to convert files into any format required by its buyers. This system will also generate screening quality copies for use on the RDFR website. RDFR will be able to ensure its files maintain high technical standards via a quality assessment device called Cerify, supplied by Tektronix.

RDFR will also be installing an Avid Unity with Interplay system as the backbone of its digital workflow. All media will be ingested into the Interplay environment for long term storage as a digital file. This system will also be supplied and installed by Root 6.

Files will be delivered to clients by the Aspera system. This can be supplied to the client in several forms; via their own Aspera server which RDFR can copy directly onto, or via a link to enable clients to download files from RDFR’s own server.  Delivery of material will be enhanced by an Aspera owned technology called ‘fasp’. RDFR will also have the ability use the Smartjog system to send material to buyers if preferred.

File types and codecs initially supported include: MP4, MOV, MPEG2 PS, AVI, DV, H.264, WMV, and MXF.

Through this initiative RDFR aims to make the entire delivery process faster and more easily accessible to its clients as well as ensuring its digital output is more environmentally friendly.