Innovating remote production: Insights from 3 industry experts

Remote production is shifting rapidly, driven by new technologies and evolving workflows. In a recent webinar hosted by TV Tech, Ross Video’s VP of Production Services, Stephen Repass, joined a panel of industry leaders to discuss the breakthroughs and technology trends reshaping how content is created and delivered. Here’s a summary of the key insights shared during the conversation. 

A smarter approach to remote production workflows   

Signal transport technologies like JPEG XS and HEVC are transforming how production teams manage video streams, delivering high-quality, low-latency content regardless of bandwidth constraints. This shift empowers outside broadcasters to maintain production standards even in challenging environments. 

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“ Anybody who’s been involved in the remote production space has learned the lesson that not every venue is built the same. We’re seeing more and more use of low-bit-rate, low-latency, high-quality codecs like HEVC to complement JPEG XS transmissions. So, you can get the same number of streams or even more streams utilizing a fraction of the bandwidth.”
Deon LeCointe, Director of Product, Networked Solutions, Sony

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Gone are the days when operators had to travel to every site. Distributed production models allow teams to collaborate from anywhere, with operators virtually connecting to on-site equipment. This approach reduces costs and increases flexibility, allowing creative teams to focus on storytelling rather than logistics.

For Ross Production Services, this shift means 90% of their graphics operators now work from home—proof that production quality doesn’t depend on proximity to a production control center, just a high-quality internet connection. 

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“Right now, ninety percent of our shows have graphics operators working at home—they don’t travel anymore. And most of the time, the team connects with the truck remotely to handle everything. It’s a better solution than a traditional REMI setup where you send feeds back to a control room and then back out. By having operators stay home, we’re cutting costs and creating a more streamlined workflow.”
– Stephen Repass, VP of Ross Production Services   

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IP & cloud technology: Balancing progress with complexity 

Cloud-based tools are unlocking new possibilities. By moving key production elements to the cloud, teams can take on projects that might have been unfeasible due to budget or logistical constraints. Emerging leagues and digital-first platforms are tapping into these workflows, creating opportunities for growth and innovation.  

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“Our clients are always looking for savings, asking how we can reduce costs while maintaining high-quality productions. With cloud-based solutions and distributed workflows, we’ve been able to open new doors and tap into opportunities with more minor leagues and digital-first platforms that might not have had the budget for traditional setups.” 
– Stephen Repass, VP of Ross Production Services   

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The transition to IP-based workflows is streamlining live production, but integrating multiple IP standards presents challenges. Companies like NETGEAR are stepping in to simplify the setup, offering tools to manage hybrid networks effectively. For producers, this means less time wrestling with technology and more time creating engaging content. 

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“The transition to AV over IP using various codecs, like ST 2110, NDI, and Dante, creates mixed environments that require careful configuration to avoid performance issues. The network should not be a barrier but facilitate the transition to AV over IP, eliminating complexity with certified switch platforms and simplified configurations“
– Laurent Masia, Senior Director of Product Line Management, NETGEAR

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What’s next for remote production? 

The future of remote production is filled with potential. The industry is poised for continued transformation, with developments like 5G promising even greater connectivity, and mobile production units like Ross Video’s RPS9 bringing more flexibility and advanced capabilities to production sites. 

Technology can only succeed if it’s easy to adopt. Solutions that replicate the feel of a traditional production environment—like ultra-low-latency connections and familiar control surfaces—help operators and clients feel comfortable with new remote or distributed workflows. This balance of innovation and familiarity ensures smooth transitions and reliable outcomes. 

As the panelists emphasized, the key to success lies in creating workflows that adapt to client needs while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The takeaway? The best solutions don’t just save time and money—they elevate storytelling.