Broadcasters, mobile operators, software vendors and technical suppliers are set to unite to capitlise on the expanding opportunities in the media-telecom value chain. 

Artificial intelligence mobile device

Driving digital business transformation, IBC and the TM Forum have announced the launch of five new Catalyst projects for 2019. 

Catalysts are proof-of-concept projects developed collaboratively, bringing together companies large and small to drive technical innovation and create solutions to common challenges.

The partnership builds on the strengthening relationship between the media and telecom industry ecosystem. 

Collaboration will focus on areas including:

  • 5G powered drones for enhancing the viewing experience during live sporting events
  • Utilising blockchain to support the media supply chain in ways such as royalty tracking
  • Collection and tackling piracy and the unlawful use of unlicensed streaming boxes
  • Developing an open API to securely and anonymously monitor advertising performance in digital media

The development of the Catalyst programme with IBC is part of TM Forum’s commitment to extend its Catalyst model to vertical markets undergoing digital transformation where the communications industry can play a vital part. 

“The digital age is changing the landscape for creation, distribution and consumption of media” - Nik Willetts, TM Forum

michael crimp IBC CEO

Michael Crimp

IBC Chief Executive Michael Crimp said: “IBC is pleased to be able to help facilitate the convergence that we are seeing throughout the industry.

“With our unique position within the media community, and now our collaboration with the TM Forum, we are now fully equipped to facilitate long-term solutions to the most vexing problems facing the telecoms and media industries today.”

The projects will work through the collaboration with IBC in order to quickly capitalise on new opportunities in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Each team will build a working proof-of-concept solution to a specific industry challenge and the successful projects will be showcased at IBC2019 and Digital Transformation World 2019.

Nik Willetts

Nik Willetts

TM Forum Chief Executive Nik Willetts said: “Media is an increasingly important sector for our global membership as the boundaries between telecoms and media continue to blur.

“The digital age is changing the landscape for creation, distribution and consumption of media, and we believe that through industry collaboration we can drive a new wave of innovation and growth. We’re delighted to collaborate with IBC, and to extend the Catalyst model to explore the convergence of telecoms and broadcasting.”

  • More information on the TM Forum and IBC Catalyst programme can be found here
  • Register your interest to be a part of the projects

Benefits of joining a Catalyst project include:

Multiplication of resources to accelerate R&D

Catalysts serve as extensions to R&D departments, where resources are pooled by participating organisations. With an R&D cycle considerably faster than most in-house initiatives, innovation is achieved faster, and at lower cost due to the sharing of resources and effort. TM Forum manages each of these projects ensuring structured programs are in place, adhered to by all participants.icipating organisations. With an R&D cycle considerably faster than most in-house initiatives, innovation is achieved faster, and at lower cost due to the sharing of resources and effort. TM Forum manages each of these projects ensuring structured programs are in place, adhered to by all icipating organisations. With an R&D cycle considerably faster than most in-house initiatives, innovation is achieved faster, and at lower cost due to the sharing of resources and effort. TM Forum manages each of these projects ensuring structured programs are in place, adhered to by all participants.

Creativity from a multi-company team

Working with some of the brightest minds from outside their own organisation helps companies get fresh perspectives into their project.

Testing Platform

Participants learn how the solution works with others in the industry in a hands-on environment. Suppliers receive real requirements and valuable feedback from the Catalyst ‘Champions’ and industry peers.

‘Trust’ - a safe place to innovate

Participants can explore new concepts without needing to expend time and energy to form commercial relationships - TM Forum takes care of contracts.