The benefits of using cloud infrastructure as opposed to traditional hardware setups are well known, and most if not all broadcasters around the globe are either already transitioning to the cloud or are in the planning process. But what about cloud playout specifically?Just like cloud-based infrastructure in general, cloud playout brings a whole host of advantages such as efficiency gains, and enhanced scalability and flexibility.
It’s also incredibly cost effective and cost efficient, as well as easy to use. In this blog, we explore why.
The cloud operates on an opex model, so broadcasters using cloud playout benefit from reduced capital expenditure. So rather than having to invest in costly playout hardware, as is needed with traditional on-premise setups, with cloud playout, the playout operation is run from the cloud, so hardware costs are eliminated. Similarly, with a traditional playout system, broadcasters would need to pay for ongoing maintenance and upgrades. Yet with a cloud playout solution, in-house technical support is usually provided as part of the service, and similarly, new features and enhancements are usually automatically included so support and upgrade costs are also eliminated.
Another reason that cloud playout is cost effective is because it’s highly scalable; if operations can be scaled up or down based on demand, there is no need to over-provision or over-invest in permanent infrastructure. Similarly, broadcasters can also experiment with launching new channels without the financial risk that would come with investing in permanent infrastructure. With cloud playout, if there is not enough interest in a channel, it can be easily shut down without concerns about lost revenue resulting from investment in hardware.
Unlike on-premise infrastructure that tends to be always on, meaning that costs are incurred even when resources are not being actively used, cloud playout runs on a pay-as-you-use pricing model. This means, you only pay for what you actually need, and it is this ability to reduce resource wastage that makes cloud playout incredibly cost efficient.
Additionally, cloud playout typically provides advanced automation features that also helps to make it highly cost efficient. Automating manual tasks such as scheduling, saves time and allows resource to be allocated elsewhere. This makes for a much more efficient way of operating, which of course creates cost savings.
Unlike traditional playout systems that need to be operated by a broadcast engineer, cloud-based platforms are designed to be user-friendly, meaning even those without a technical background can launch and manage channels with ease. A good cloud playout solution will provide an intuitive user interface that allows broadcasters to manage multiple linear channels as well as distribution of content to VOD, all from a single user-friendly platform.
Cloud playout solutions should also be easy to integrate with other cloud services and third-party solutions using Restful APIs. This prevents the need for additional hardware or complex configurations as would be the case with on-premise infrastructure. Andas mentioned, because cloud playout solutions typically include technical support provided as part of the service, broadcasters can focus on content and audience engagement rather than troubleshooting technical issues.
Veset Nimbus is a SaaS cloud playout solution designed to provide advanced channel management. As an enterprise level product, it has extensive technical features yet remains easy to use. With Veset Nimbus, you can empower your team to schedule, distribute and monetise linear channels with any live and file-based content to satellite, cable TV, terrestrial digital and OTT.
As a cloud-based solution, it provides flexibility, scalability and ensures robust redundancy, all while delivering the highest-quality output. With an intuitive interface, Veset Nimbus simplifies workflows, enabling seamless channel setup, scheduling, and management. The platform's ease of use empowers broadcasters to launch channels in minutes without extensive technical expertise, making it an ideal choice for broadcasters seeking efficiency, flexibility, and cost savings in their media operations.
Interested? Get in touch with Veset today to find out more.
