Historically, the worlds of traditional broadcasting and IT were never intended to meet.

However, this has been rapidly changing in recent years - as the broadcast, media and entertainment industry witnesses the rapid growth of online streaming services, new agile software-based OTT providers, advanced Cloud storage and new collaboration opportunities - creating an ever-growing demand for niche Cloud skill sets.

Whilst Cloud computing in itself is not entirely new, the progressive way these technologies are being drawn into the broadcast workflow, is. This has, in turn, created a wave of disruption throughout the community, and forced even the most conventional broadcasters to rethink and embrace Cloud solutions in some form.

Until recently the biggest fears focused on security. This was predominantly driven by a lack of understanding and concerns for the safety of content. However, as these technologies are becoming established and security fears reducing, a bigger problem is arising - a lack of skilled professional resources.

In reality, a complete migration to the Cloud is not a one size fits all solution.

For example in production, if you’re dealing with 4k for high turnover soap drama, then the massive size of data produced alone could make Cloud storage an impractical option. On the other hand, if you’re producing low volume, high-end nature documentaries, the flexibility of Cloud-based transcoding from anywhere in the world (compared to sending LTO cartridges in the post and having content stuck in one physical location) is a tremendous advantage.

For this area of the industry, real growth and change sit in that middle ground, hybrid Cloud model; in-which minimal payload, low-resolution uploads can be quickly reviewed, selected, transcoded and collaboratively worked on whilst physical storage is still in play. This provides a viable transition option, suitable for businesses looking to build recurring openrevenue models. However, it is only possible with the support of Cloud professionals with experience working in these environments.

From our position in the community, we’re able to attain a unique perspective on the changing landscape, with feedback received from both businesses and their employees (our candidates) on the growing skill demands; versus the lack of availability.

Working closely alongside broadcast architects, DevOps and similar people we’ve placed, our team have developed a deep understanding of IP and Cloud issues broadcasters are facing. We’ve learnt that scalability and sign on size, alongside downtime andbusiness-criticall needs (especially when sports rights are involved) are the top concerns; driving an urgent requirement for consultants that can search for, and select, skilled professionals that to meet these demands. We also understand the need for industry crossover, and how to source skills from similar markets that work in Cloud environments, such as online gaming. The most requested skills we’re being asked for include;

- Terraform

- Microservices

- Cloud Formation

- GIT

- Kubernetes

Our lead consultant in this arena works purely within the IP & Cloud vertical, with access to a growing network of industry experts, tech professionals, DevOps and team leads - with both broadcast industry experience and crossover, in-demand skill sets. His advantage in this space (beyond his network) is his level of technical understand. Whilst he may not have the knowledge to get involved in software infrastructure himself, he is able to listen, take onboard and importantly, comprehend the detailed requirements of both clients and candidates alike.