Case Study: Channel5 achieves a file-based workflow and faster, lower-cost content distribution with Signiant

Building Media-Centric Video Facilities, Channel Five Implements a File-Based Workflow

Five (formerly Channel 5) is a UK broadcaster running multiple channels and multi-platform services from several London sites with a mix of in-house and outsourced operations. Faced with rising volumes of content, duplicated tape traffic and the launch of new channels, Five needed to move from a tape-based model to a file-based workflow without disrupting existing operations — a change seen as a broader business and cultural transformation rather than just a technology upgrade.

Five began with a non-disruptive proof of concept: ITFC generated browse files and XML metadata from masters, which were encrypted and delivered via Signiant’s traffic management to local servers for authorized access, while partners root6 and Isilon provided integration and clustered storage. The trial delivered quick wins — reduced dubbing and courier costs, faster simultaneous access to assets, and clearer content control — and is being rolled out with plans to scale storage (targeting thousands of hours) and phase out DigiBeta tapes.

Channel5

Chris Anning

Chief Technology Officer