At Switch Media, we have first-hand experience helping media companies in this position. We recently delivered a great new streaming service for Solomon Telekom Company Limited (STCL) that took their free-to-air channels online to be accessed anywhere, anytime, from any device. Recently launched, the offering, which utilises Switch Media’s MediaHQ Lite online video platform, provides Telekom Television (TTV) subscribers with a two-channel service that is available online across multiple devices including Chromecast streaming technology.

The new over-the-top (OTT) service will provide a combination of free access and subscription, with subscribers receiving unlimited data via their ISP. Billing is carried out via mobile phones and users will have the opportunity to purchase vouchers to access the service from local retailers.

Working closely with companies on projects like this, we have developed a deep understanding of the challenges facing customers globally and a clearer view of the current variances from market to market. Even before COVID-19, smaller (and larger) broadcasters have been looking at ways to reduce costs and complexity so they can extend their reach and free up time and money. To do this they need a best-of-breed online video solution without the need for customisation (other than adapting to company branding). Some of the features that this type of off-the-shelf solution provides include: Secure VOD and live streaming with DRM; a global CDN service; real-time analytics reports; comprehensive metadata; high-definition ABR encoding; dynamic ad insertion (DAI); and a range of ready-to-go applications across every screen.

Using MediaHQ Lite, TTV has a streamlined, cost-effective, fast-to-market online video solution that meets all these requirements and more. It provides all the essential capabilities and features, complete with applications and the ability to monetise seamlessly, without the complexity and overheads of other OTT solutions. Drawing key components and features from our world-class online video platform MediaHQ, MediaHQ Lite keeps the lion’s share of features and value without complications or the need for a big budget.

It allows companies of all sizes the opportunity to significantly extend their reach and revenue generation, even in the more remote parts of the world. Furthermore, the considerably reduced operational resources mean that you can easily adapt to the ever-changing OTT landscape and consumer expectations.

We want content providers to have the freedom to think strategically and to be able to leverage agile technologies in OTT. Our mission is to empower clients with cutting-edge, cost-effective solutions that allow them to be competitive and provide an exceptional viewer experience, especially in smaller communities and evolving territories around the globe.