In a recent interview for the Convergence Conversations podcast series, Chris Johnson, Director of Oceania for Riedel, discussed the increasingly blurred lines between broadcast and AV technologies. 

When asked whether Riedel considers itself a broadcast or AV company, Johnson's answer was simple: "both."

According to Johnson, Riedel's business is evenly split between media and other sectors including corporate, government, education, sports, and live events. Products like their Bolero intercom system are used across numerous industries, from Formula One racing to music tours and traditional broadcast studios.

Technological Drivers of Convergence

Several technological developments have driven this convergence. The shift toward IP networks and conventional IT systems has brought these worlds closer together. The broadcast sector has embraced control and automation workflows - a longtime focus of AV professionals - while COVID-19 accelerated remote production capabilities across industries.

Expanding Broadcast Capabilities Beyond Traditional Media

Johnson highlighted how non-traditional verticals have enhanced their broadcast capabilities. Sports organisations now produce second screen and fan content alongside traditional broadcasts. Meanwhile, corporate events that went virtual during the pandemic have maintained hybrid formats even as in-person gatherings return. Many businesses are building in-house broadcast studios to leverage communication platforms like Teams and Zoom more effectively.

Bridging Technologies

Riedel's Medianet signal distribution system exemplifies how technology bridges these worlds, enabling event producers to move any signal anywhere - serving both live event needs and broadcast requirements on a single network.

The Rise of Remote Production

Remote production has emerged as a game-changer, driven both by pandemic necessities and ongoing benefits including cost savings, resource optimisation, and new creative possibilities. Johnson described Simply Live, Riedel's platform used for remote officiating in sports, as built specifically for this new production paradigm.

A Two-Way Relationship

The relationship between AV and broadcast is not one sided. While AV technology now plays a crucial role in broadcast workflows, traditional broadcasting has benefited from AV innovations. News gathering, once requiring specialised vans and equipment, can now be accomplished with smartphones and video conferencing tools.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead to the Integrate Expo in Sydney, Johnson welcomes the increased presence of broadcast players. "Increasingly, we're telling the same stories to both groups of people," he notes, adding that many technology leaders now oversee both AV and broadcast operations at their organisations.

Don't miss the full conversation for deeper insights into how these technologies are reshaping content production and delivery.

Watch it here on YouTube or listen here on Spotify.