The way people watch sports has changed rapidly with the development of new technologies. A shift from traditional broadcasting mediums to live streaming platforms is not merely a change in content delivery but signifies a broader financial transformation. Certainly, the actual viewing experience has also changed with an absolute increase for greater mobility in the viewing experience and less emphasis in the traditional television experience. In similar manner other forms of content including social media has challenged the importance of format within a viewing experience.
Chris Martin, Chairman of the Board at GlenMartin, a powerhouse in the telecommunication infrastructure arena, offers an expert lens on this evolving landscape.
There’s a shift in the way sports are being consumed globally. With the ubiquity of high-speed internet and mobile devices, live sports have been unlocked from the constraints of cable networks. This paradigm shift, though seemingly technological at the surface, has financial implications.
Financial Disruption
The landscape of sports financing is transforming in unprecedented proportions. Revenue streams, once tightly held by broadcast media rights, advertisements, sponsorships, and the stronghold of colossal networks, are witnessing a seismic shift.
Digital platforms have democratized access to live sports by making it accessible to a far-reaching audience. This is in contrast to traditional channels, which monopolized these avenues in the past. And that, in turn, amplifies its potential for revenue generation.
A report by PwC underscores this transition, highlighting that sports media rights alone are set to surge to $23.8 billion by 2023.
Adding another layer to this financial tapestry, a study by Deloitte anticipates that in the same year, half of all adults in developed nations will subscribe to at least two online-only streaming platforms. A significant propellant for this trend? The undying allure of live sports content.
Chris’ Analysis
Chris, with decades of experience in infrastructure and finance, sees this as a pivotal juncture for the industry. “The true potential lies not just in streaming more games via the latest broadband providers formally known as cable companies but in harnessing technologies like artificial intelligence, more efficient uplink backhaul and optimized digital over the air technologies to revolutionize the way the game is not only produced but also delivered to market” says Chris. At the end of the day content delivery networks can almost become technology agnostic as long as it can be done cost effectively. This in fact challenges all aspects of the value chain within Live Production and Distribution.
The future, as he envisions, is one of high-volume, high-quality productions facilitated by advanced remote production strategies and AI-driven solutions.
GlenMartin’s recent partnership with DNA Studios, is a tangible stride toward realizing this vision.
GlenMartin’s Strategy
GlenMartin, a company synonymous with innovation and forward-thinking, is poised to ride this wave. From developing the BlueBird Network to their latest sports production venture, their rich history is a testament to their ability to anticipate and capitalize on industry shifts.
The company’s vision is to be at the nexus of technology and content, ensuring they’re ahead of the curve. This partnership promises to provide the networks they service with quality broadcasting and video content.
With the growing demand for live sports content and the convergence of cutting-edge technology, the insights and strategies put forward by industry stalwarts like Chris, combined with the relentless drive of companies like GlenMartin, indicate that we’re on the verge of a golden age of live sports production.
Live sports are meant to be accessible for all. The drama, the unexpected twists, and the raw talent of athletes speak to something in all of us. As we change how we watch and experience these moments, new avenues to appreciate and profit from them will naturally emerge.
As we forge ahead into this brave new world, diligent visionaries will undoubtedly experiment to innovate. And Chris Martin is all set to take charge to shape the industry’s future with a blend of experience, innovation, and foresight.
