IBC 2011 Q&A: Mark Goodburn, director of marketing and communications, EchoStar Europe

Mark Goodburn, director of marketing and communications, EchoStar Europe, spoke to DTVE 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?

Whilst 2011 hasn’t seen the mass introduction of a new pay TV technology such as DVR, HD and 3D, as EchoStar is a pioneering supplier of TV anywhere solutions the move by key operators such as Sky, Telenet and Belgacom to expand their pay and IPTV offerings to include mobile TV services is wholly significant and very encouraging.

What is the biggest challenge currently facing the industry?

Convergence between broadcast and IP has been happening for a number of years; however, packaging ‘connected TV services’ – OTT, internet TV and mobile TV – with linear TV, successfully and profitably remains a challenge for TV operators.

What trends do you expect to emerge from this year’s IBC?

Extending services to other devices beyond the main TV is something that has been gaining most column inches this year as operators look to capitalise on the growing market for content delivered to multiple devices. I believe that TV anywhere solutions will therefore be represented strongly at this year’s show.

What will you be highlighting at IBC?

A new and innovative range of advanced and cost-effective connected devices for pay TV operators. Highlights include EchoStar’s new 320GB Mercury Ultra Slim DVR – the thinnest ‘connected’ DVR in the world. With the launch of a new Android set-top box, we’ll also be demonstrating how operators can embrace IP and internet delivered services by placing a world of apps at their fingertips. We’ll be showcasing various operator-centric TV anywhere solutions including integrated SlingLoaded technology and whole home DVR; visitors will also get a sneak preview of Move Networks’ [now part of EchoStar Corporation] adaptive bitrate technology that is set to enhance the delivery of IP delivered services across both managed and unmanaged networks.

What are your main goals for the next 12 months?

To continue to rollout a comprehensive roadmap of operator centric products offering added-value through IP delivered apps and services.

Do you have any IBC survival tips?

Treat yourself to some nice spongy insoles for your shoes, and with all the evening events and hospitality on offer, always leave at least one night free for some rest and relaxation!

Echostar Europe will be exhibiting at IBC on Stand 1.F76