OverDrive Automated Production Control System

News Production Job Functions and Workflow

A common question we are asked when clients are first introduced to the OverDrive Automated Production Control (APC) system is ‘How will our workflow change when we introduce OverDrive technology into our live productions?’

Here's demonstration of a typical OverDrive Automated Production Control (APC) workflow with descriptions for functions carried out by each APC position. In the system described, there are 3 operators in the control room; a Producer, the TD/Director (APC operator) and a Production Assistant (PA). This staffing would be found in most major markets that OverDrive operates in. For smaller markets, the PA position may not be staffed. For some smaller, less complex productions such as cut-ins, etc. the production could be controlled by just one APC position.

This drawing provides a template key to each individual function detailed below.

Click on thumbnail to enlarge.

Open Rundown

Producer

Open Rundown
To initiate preparation for a production, the Producer opens up a rundown in the NRCS system. This rundown is typically a saved default ‘skeleton’ or ‘framework’ rundown that already includes OverDrive templates that are used on a daily basis. This saves valuable time in coding a show.

Production Coding

Producer

Insert Templates
The Producer will begin coding new information into the show by inserting the appropriate OverDrive templates from the OverDrive ActiveX plug-in into the NRCS stories. These OverDrive templates create a MOS id in the NRCS story script area. Other MOS ids, such as for CG media or server clip id are inserted into the story using the appropriate vendor’s ActiveX plug-in. The order that these MOS ids appear in the story body are the order that the related OverDrive template will appear in the OverDrive rundown. In some environments, the TD/Director may be responsible for production coding. Please note that not all MOS ids are supported by OverDrive.

Recorder Rundown
Leading up to on-air, the Producer will be reordering, adding, deleting and editing stories within the rundown. Close collaboration must take place with the TD/Director and all other APC operational staff.

Verify Rundown
During creation of the NRCS rundown, the Producer will verify data to ensure accuracy. This function includes the standard responsibilities found within a traditional production with the addition of accurate OverDrive template placement.

Production Assist (PA)

Input Media Data
During the production coding process the PA, if used, will be responsible for inputting media data (server clips, camera positions, CG, audio level, etc.) into the OverDrive templates and various ActiveX templates used in the production.

Verify Data
Before the NRCS rundown is made MOS Active, the PA will verify and correct for inaccurate data in the rundown.

TD/Director

Verify Templates
During the production coding phase, the TD/Director will be preparing the RundownControl work environment. Duties may include: verifying OverDrive templates to ensure their accuracy, add or edit QuickRecalls, configure timers and coordinate changes with the Producer. In some environments, the TD/Director may also be responsible for production coding.

Input Media Data
In a production where a PA is not used, the TD/Director will be responsible for inputting media data (server clips, camera positions, CG, audio level, etc.) into the OverDrive templates and various ActiveX templates used in the production.

Verify Data
Before the NRCS rundown is made MOS Active, the TD/Director will verify and correct for inaccurate data in the templates and rundown.

TD/Director 2

Build/Edit Templates
In facilities where back-to-back productions take place, a second TD/Director could be preparing for the next show at any time by using OverDrive RundownControl and DirectControl client applications.

Rundown MOS Active

Producer

Publish Rundown
Before the production is taken to air, the NRCS rundown must be made MOS Active. Once this process is complete, NRCS rundowns are available to OverDrive to be loaded.

TD/Director

Correct Errors
Once the TD/Director loads the NRCS rundown into OverDrive items such as missing templates, missing server clips, unauthorized back-to-back shots, etc., will trigger warnings in the GUI. These warnings provide the operator the opportunity to resolve this issue before the show is taken to air.

System Verification

PA

Verify Devices
Before going to air, the PA will check and verify all devices being controlled by the APC. Depending on the workflow and configuration of the system, this might include audio mixer configuration, microphone testing, camera robotic test, server clip verification and CG system check.

TD/Director

System Check
The TD/Director is responsible for a full system check before taking the production to air. This may include Rundown test, Device Verification/Test and communication test.

On-Air Playout

Producer

Manage NRCS
During on-air playout, the Producer is responsible for managing the NRCS rundown, including adding, deleting and floating stories. In some environments, the Producer is also responsible for editing OverDrive templates in the NRCS and managing teleprompter, CG and other devices.

AP

Manage Devices
During on-air playout, the AP may be responsible for managing devices such as audio mixer, robotic camera/s, CG, teleprompter or others. Clear communication with the Producer and TD/Director is vital.

TD/Director

Manage OverDrive
TD/Director takes the production to air and is the primary operator responsible for managing the rundown, including device control. Clear communication with the production team is essential for a successful, clean show.

Producer 2

Open New Rundown
In facilities where back-to-back productions take place, a second Producer could be preparing for the next show at any time using the OverDrive NRCS ActiveX plug-in on their desktop.

If you need a more detailed explanation, or have unique workflow challenges, please feel free to contact us at or by phone at 613-652-4886. We’d be happy to work with you in making your productions cleaner, more efficient and more profitable for your organization.