Harris Broadcast scheduling software installation simplifies productivity

Qatar TV (QTV), the state-owned broadcast network in Qatar, will automate its planning and scheduling workflows with a new integrated solution from Harris Broadcast. The implementation, part of a large-scale modernization of the broadcaster’s facilities in Doha, will replace manual systems to schedule the three current channels, with capacity for expansion.

Currently, staff charged with planning and scheduling the QTV channels and preparing final playlists use manual methods backed up by several spreadsheets. As part of a move to a completely integrated and seamless workflow, QTV sought to implement a more sophisticated system that could replace its various manual systems with one fully integrated solution, sharing data across its various departments, which could integrate with other parts of the technology infrastructure.

Harris Broadcast media software provides specialist application modules serving the various parts of the organization while managing the data within a single database. The system manages program acquisition and rights, along with all content and media – including management of physical libraries. All scheduling functions are fully integrated, across programme planning, sales traffic and presentation scheduling. Commercial processes are supported by a dedicated airtime sales module. Complex logistic workflows can be optimized using fully integrated workflow and task management tools. The product also offers proven interfaces to other broadcast software systems through the industry-standard BXF protocol.

“We are looking for substantial efficiencies in the way we work, but we do not want to compromise our broadcast reliability in any way,” said Abdulkarim El Sabbagh, head of operations, QTV. “Harris Broadcast has experience in installing, planning and scheduling systems for broadcasters of our status and size around the world, and we are confident that the installation here will ultimately help us work more accurately, more productively and more reliably.”

“Harris Broadcast provides an exceptionally well-proven solution,” said Alain Pecot, vice president, Middle East and Africa, at Harris Broadcast. “As we introduce the staff at QTV to the benefits of seamless integration, together we see the potential for considerable cost savings in the long term, as well as the more immediate advantages of simplified workflows without the need to copy and carry critical data.”

The contract was awarded to Harris Broadcast by QTV in March 2013. The Doha implementation is based on standard software modules which will be integrated with other technology on site. Following training and data integration, the new system is planned to go live next month.

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About Harris Broadcast
Harris Broadcast is a market leader in content management and network infrastructure serving more than 3,000 broadcasters, cable networks, MSOs and mobile and IPTV providers spanning 140 countries. Harris Broadcast has been awarded 240 patents and has received eight Emmy Awards from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

For more information, please visit harrisbroadcast.com.