Nieuwveen – February 24, 2012

AA Media Group was selected to manage the project for a complete upgrade of the Avid production suites at Omrop Fryslân. The Avid Unity environment has been replaced by a new configuration based on Interplay. In addition, AA Media Group implemented a new archive system which integrates fully with the Avid environment through the new Interplay Web Services technology. The deployed configuration at Omrop Fryslân is unique in its kind.

 Since 2011, the Frisian regional broadcaster uses a media backbone solution from AA Media Group to storage and archive all television content. The integral solution runs on Vidispine MAM software and contains the largest amount of historical content of Omrop Fryslân. The connection to Interplay, using the latest web services technology, is able to archive assets directly from the production environment into the MAM system. This creates the opportunity to use the maximum availability in the Avid storage, but program makers can also seek through the archive from various locations with the archive client. The whole chain, with Interplay, the MAM system and the archive client application is able to handle SD and HD formats. All Omrop Fryslân formats such as DNxHD, XDCAM HD and Long GOP can be used, depending on the production.

General Manager at AA Media Group, Eric Hardsteen: “We are proud to deliver this project at Omrop Fryslân. In the last period we have managed to fine-tune the archive system to the Omrop Fryslân workflows for the old content but also for their future content. This highlights the scalable and flexible character of the Vidispine MAM system. Along with the HD upgrade of the archive system, AA Media Group also realised a transparent connection with the Avid Interplay environment. This interface, based on the Avid Interplay Web Services functionality, is Omrop Fryslân’s world premiere. It is a unique design and is build by AA Media Group.”

With this large upgrade, Omrop Fryslân is prepared for the future. General manager facilities at Omrop Fryslân, Jouke Algra: “We were confident for his upgrade based on our experience and long term relationship with AA Media Group. All expectations turned into reality. It puts us as a regional broadcaster to the right level, with people and means that can be deployed as effective as possible.”

De new Avid Interplay Web Services solution is relatively new, which makes local technical knowledge indispensable. Senior engineer at AA Media Group, Patrick Mans: “you have to decide how the functionalities will be implemented with the new developments of the Vidispine media backbone. The open and scalable character of the systems allows many possibilities to the environment. This expansion was successful due to a good design and extensive testing of the system to make it work how it should in every possible situation. AA Media Group was active participant in the development and was able to use all their knowledge with building the interface on MAM side.”

About Omrop Fryslân

Omrop Fryslân is a regional broadcaster in the northern province of Friesland in the Netherlands. Omrop Fryslân is the only broadcaster that does not use Dutch but they broadcast radio and television in their own Frisian language. More information on www.omropfryslan.nl.

About AA Media Group

AA Media Group provides solutions based on professional services in all phases of Media Technology projects. It is an agile company with a vast experienced team and tailor-made services portfolio to meet the needs of each individual customer. The in-depth knowledge of both dynamic tapeless workflows and proven project methodologies results in better integration and lower risk.

About Avid Technology, Inc.

Avid Technology, Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of film, video, audio, 3D-animation and gaming solutions for broadcast professionals but also hobbyists. They sell professional and consumer products licensed on Avid®, Digidesign®, M-Audio®, Pinnacle Systems, Sibelius®, Softimage® and Sundance Digital®. The large majority of primetime television shows, films, commercials and hit parade music are made with one or more Avid products. Experienced professionals but also students can work more efficient, productive and creative with the products and services provided by Avid. More information on www.avid.com.