Streamlining Content Delivery: Accelerate Publishing with AI-Enhanced Localization and Accessibility

Introduction

Welcome to the latest edition of the OTX Wednesday Webinar Series. Today's discussion centers on global distribution in the Over-the-Top (OTT) and Connected TV (CTV) industries. Navigating localization demands and compliance requirements can pose significant challenges for success in these businesses.

We are joined by Eric Ducker from Three Play Media, an expert in accessibility and localization, to explore how to leverage APIs and AI to simplify compliance and expand global reach effortlessly. The conversation will cover the integration of human-in-the-loop services that harness the strengths of both AI and human expertise to optimize workflows. Additionally, we will discuss the transformative potential of APIs in streamlining complex publishing processes into automated steps, helping content providers turn regulatory requirements and localization efforts into competitive advantages that drive revenue for their platforms.

About Three Play Media

Eric Ducker leads product marketing at Three Play Media, a company dedicated to making video content accessible and understandable for all audiences. Founded by MIT alumni, Three Play Media started as an initiative to streamline the process of creating closed caption files. They now offer comprehensive services that include closed captioning, media localization, and corporate accessibility, successfully aiding prominent clients such as Master Class and Crown Media.

Key Trends in Content Production

The landscape of content delivery and production is continually changing. Recent market research indicates a decline in new TV productions, attributed to various factors, including the effects of a writer’s strike and increased interest rates. This ongoing downturn means OTT providers must find innovative ways to keep subscribers engaged with existing content.

Advancements in AI also present exciting opportunities, enabling faster content delivery and aiding in content localization. However, mere reliance on AI could lead to inaccuracies, particularly in accessibility services that demand precision, like closed captioning. As competition intensifies within the subscription streaming market, with families spending an average of $ 46 monthly across services, companies must find ways to differentiate themselves using features such as high-quality captioning and accessibility.

The Importance of Human-In-The-Loop Services

To address the limitations of AI, the concept of human-in-the-loop services emerges as key. This approach combines automated technology with human oversight to ensure accuracy and quality. It allows businesses to leverage AI's efficiency while ensuring that the final output meets high-quality standards. Eric Ducker emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach, integrating AI in processes like audio description and localization, where nuances matter significantly.

Three Play Media has processed millions of files, providing a scalable and accurate solution for media companies that require high-quality accessibility services.

Case Studies: Real-World Applications

1. Master Class

   • Master Class is committed to delivering inclusive content. By transitioning to an Amazon S3 workflow and utilizing Three Play Media’s services, they streamline their accessibility processes for close captioning and audio description while maintaining reliability.

2. NBC Sports

   • NBC Sports collaborated with Three Play Media during the Olympic games to ensure accuracy in their content's closed captioning. They incorporated a workflow that combined automatic speech recognition with a human review process, achieving nearly perfect 99% accuracy within a rapid turnaround time.

Conclusion

OTT platforms that prioritize accessibility and localization can turn compliance issues into competitive advantages. By effectively utilizing AI and human collaboration, companies can enhance user experiences, improve engagement, and maintain revenue growth, ultimately meeting the diverse needs of their audiences.

Keywords

AI, accessibility, localization, OTT, CTV, content production, compliance, human-in-the-loop, closed captioning, audio description, global distribution

FAQ

Q: What is the role of AI in content localization?
A: AI enhances content localization by providing quicker translation and captioning services, but requires human oversight to ensure quality and accuracy.

Q: Why is human-in-the-loop important?
A: The human-in-the-loop model combines AI efficiency with human review to enhance the accuracy of accessible content like closed captions and audio descriptions.

Q: How can companies leverage accessibility for competitive advantage?
A: By investing in high-quality accessibility features like closed captioning and audio description, companies can attract and retain more subscribers in a competitive market.

Q: What is the impact of regulatory compliance on OTT services?
A: Compliance with accessibility regulations is essential for OTT services to ensure they provide inclusive experiences for all viewers and avoid legal repercussions.

Q: Can accessibility improve revenue growth for OTT platforms?
A: Yes, effective localization and accessibility can increase subscriber growth and maintain brand loyalty, which ultimately drives revenue for OTT platforms.