What’s “the cloud”? Well, it’s definitely not the clouds we see in the sky, but it’s basically “someone else’s computer” as Ann Charles, Object-based Media Specialist at Mediabooks, explained while opening this session.
And why is the cloud important for media? Chip Jellison, CTO at RCS, explained the key reasons for cloud adoption by media. This technology is designed to keep radio stations running smoothly and cost-effectively, therefore, it can offer many advantages to media and especially radio stations. Media can reduce costs without losing the opportunity to leave their footprint and stand out. They can also have a centralized management, while at the same time have access to the station and do all the actions required remotely, even broadcasting live.
A very important addition to the pros list is the fact that cloud adoption can keep media workers safe when they are required to cover a dangerous incident, such as Hurricane Helene. Kent Terry, Director of Technical Operations at iHeart Media, shared the story of iHeart Media who helped to keep the radio station WWNC on air throughout the storm and its aftermath. “Radio presenters could keep covering the storm from the safety of their home,” he said.
But what can radio stations build with the help of the Cloud? Henrik Claesson, UX Lead at Sveriges Radio, explained that the correct answer is “what should they build?”. Even though tech-driven design could seem like the best option, actually user-driven design could be of better help. Like the cats that prefer to just sit in a cardboard box and not a cat tree, people sometimes need simpler things that make their lives easier and not just things impressive on the surface.
image © Afroditi Zaggana
