ARD selects EVS for Berlin news production overhaul
September Europe/London By Jörn Krieger

German public broadcaster ARD is to modernise the news production environment of its capital studio (“Hauptstadtstudio”) in Berlin with EVS’ VIA Media Asset Platform (VIA MAP), replacing the existing hardware-based TV production system as it approaches end-of-life.

According to Belgian technology provider EVS, the MediaCeption solution, built around VIA MAP, will provide a unified workflow for the production and distribution of content across television, web and social media. The software-defined platform can be deployed in cloud, hybrid or on-premises environments.

The system will cover workflows ranging from live ingest and editing to media management, playout and distribution. Journalists and editors will be able to collaborate within a common environment, while integration with Adobe Premiere Pro will allow editors to continue using their existing editing tools.

The deployment will also include EVS server infrastructure. XS-VIA will provide ingest and playout capabilities, while XStore will be used for nearline storage and access to content during production.

VIA MAP will be integrated with the Hauptstadtstudio’s existing technology environment, including newsroom computer systems, craft editing and automation. EVS said open APIs will allow additional tools and systems to be integrated as the newsroom develops.

“We are delighted to welcome ARD Hauptstadtstudio as the latest ARD organisation to join the growing number of broadcasters relying on EVS solutions to support their transition to a modern news production environment,” said Serge Van Herck, CEO of EVS.

“This project demonstrates how VIA MAP can combine the reliability expected in live production with the flexibility required by today’s cross-media newsrooms delivering stories through linear, digital and social media channels. We look forward to working with the ARD Hauptstadtstudio team as they modernise their workflows and pave the way for the next generation of news production with EVS,” Van Herck added.

According to EVS, the move to the new platform is intended to accelerate content turnaround, streamline operations and improve collaboration between teams. The solution also includes AI-powered production tools.