IBC 2011 Q&A: Jef Graham, chairman and CEO RGB Networks

Jef Graham, chairman and CEO RGB Networks, spoke to DTVE IBC Update to discuss the company’s plans for the show.

What has been the most significant development in pay TV technology since last year’s IBC?
The past year has really seen a shift from traditional pay TV services delivered via set-top boxes in the home towards the delivery of IP video to a growing number of internet-connected devices. With consumer demand on the rise for video delivered anywhere, on any device, multi-screen TV Everywhere services are no longer a novelty, but a necessity for pay TV providers to survive in a rapidly changing video delivery environment.

What is the biggest challenge currently facing the industry?
The move to IP – a requirement for large scale multi-screen video delivery. At present most infrastructures are developed around individual “siloed” headends, delivering to a single type of device. To overhaul this to a single headend, which can deliver IP, video to multiple screens can be a very costly and cumbersome process. However, RGB’s flexible product set helps operators to overcome these challenges via one integrated solution.

What trends do you expect to emerge from this year’s IBC?
The trends for IBC are as always varied given the number of different operators and vendors represented. I think this year we’ll see a lot less 3D, but even more multi-screen developments.  Companies will be looking at the next stage, demonstrating solutions which highlight how operators can look to monetise their offerings utilising new technologies, as well as capitalise on upcoming opportunities such as the forthcoming Olympics where the delivery of live content will be key.

What will you be highlighting at IBC?
RGB will be showcasing its core solutions for the delivery of the monetised multi-screen experience. We will also be revealing some leading edge new technology to take multi-screen video to the next level, as well as announcing enhancements to our flagship VMG product line.

What are your main goals for the next 12 months?
RGB’s main goal for 2012 is to solidify our position as the leader in IP video infrastructure for multi-screen. We already have the unique product offering required to make this happen, and deployments are happening rapidly, so it’s just a case of continuing to deliver the unmatched scalability, reliability and robust feature set required for the large-scale deployments that are taking shape right now.

Do you have any IBC survival tips?
Preparation is absolutely key in surviving and reaping the benefits from a show like IBC. It is an ideal opportunity to network, so engage with your potential partners and vendors before the show to firm up meetings, thus ensuring that you maximize the opportunities available.

RGB Networks will be exhibiting at IBC on Stand 4.C78