Gabriel, can you elaborate on how Octopus Newsroom is reacting to cloud technology and the changes in news production?
Absolutely. At Octopus, we’ve recognized broadcasters’ increasing gravitation towards cloud-based solutions. Our developers have taken a proactive approach to ensuring that Octopus Newsroom offers the flexibility and choice that news broadcasters demand. In our global business, we can see different approaches to cloud and on-prem deployments – some broadcasters move all their technologies to the cloud, and many others, especially larger ones, consider the news production system such a crucial tool that they want to have complete control of on-prem, or at best in a hybrid environment. Thanks to the system’s flexibility, Octopus can support all these approaches.
When considering cloud migration and distributed workflows, what key considerations should news organizations contemplate?
The cloud enhances operational efficiency, lowers hardware-related costs, and ensures better access to tools from anywhere. From a journalistic perspective, cloud technology empowers journalists to work independently and remotely, with enhanced collaboration capabilities.
Are there also some downsides to a cloud-based newsroom?
Like everything, cloud technology also has its pros and cons. While it may be perfect for some use cases, it may not be the best fit for all. Cloud technology removes the constraints of many traditional IT processes, empowering broadcasters to access tools easily and worry-free. However, it’s essential to carefully assess the accessibility, reliability of the network, and the total cost of ownership.
Many large customers also face hurdles in terms of trust, particularly since the NRCS typically contains sensitive information and forms a critical part of the broadcasting infrastructure. Budgetary constraints also hinder their ability to transition their production to the cloud. When the timing aligns, Octopus Newsroom stands prepared to assist them in making the transition.
One of the most critical aspects of modern newsrooms is flexibility. With over 70 technology integrations, Octopus allows broadcasters to define their technological workflows. Our cloud technology provides 24/7 access and the highest level of digital security.
Can you tell us about Octopus Newsroom’s latest offering, Octopus 12?
The highlight of the latest Octopus 12 news production system is undoubtedly the new Octopus Web Client, which brings us back to our roots where we started. Before we decided to go with a dedicated Desktop client, Octopus was entirely web-based, and now we are heading back to this again. It fully utilizes the powerful Octopus backend, so all the integrations, collaboration, and flexibility of Octopus 12 will be there from the beginning. Octopus showcases improved planning, resource planning systems, advanced search capabilities, a dynamic assignment map, and seamlessly streamlined workflows with automation systems.
To meet the demands of modern newsrooms, Octopus was one of the first NRCS to integrate AI workflows. The built-in AI Assistant allows journalists to write, edit, fact-check, and summarize articles in record time. Additionally, Octopus 12 supports third-party AI engines, including facial recognition, quick fact-checking, and speech-to-text capabilities.
Also, one of the most critical aspects of modern newsrooms is flexibility. With over 70 technology integrations, Octopus allows broadcasters to define their technological workflows. Our cloud technology provides 24/7 access and the highest level of digital security. Each customer receives a dedicated instance in a secure environment, empowering them to upgrade at their convenience.
The new Web Client sounds undoubtedly exciting. Is this part of your cloud transition plans?
It sure is. The Octopus Web Client facilitates seamless collaboration for teams worldwide and streamlines the entire production workflow, whether the system is deployed on-prem or in the cloud. Thanks to its real-time multi-user script editor, journalists can create collective content at remarkable speed from anywhere. Users in the newsroom or the field can all be connected to the robust Octopus 12 system.
Are there other cloud-based solutions that Octopus Newsroom showcases at the upcoming NAB Show?
We’re also showcasing the latest version of our user-generated content platform, iReporter. Tailored specifically for the needs of the newsrooms, it swiftly collects videos from both stringers and the public to ensure timely coverage of breaking news. With its Mobile App and web-based portal, iReporter fosters a dynamic digital community, enabling news organizations to gather local news, breaking news, traffic updates, and weathercasts. With complete video copyrights and high-quality content, iReporter helps news organizations collect a large amount of media content that may be published on all the different platforms, be it social media, web, or linear broadcasting.
