Real-Time Broadcast Management System for a Major Broadcasting Corporation
Media & Entertainment // Developing a bespoke, real-time software suite to manage on-air scheduling and show content, directly empowering on-air talent and streamlining broadcast operations.
Custom Software
Real-Time Systems
Media
Operational Efficiency
Azure
Timeline
24 Months
Environment
On-Prem & Azure Hybrid
Core Mission
Replace manual workflows with a modern, integrated software solution.
Our Role
Lead Software Architect & Developer
The Challenge
- On-air talent relied on paper scripts and manual timing, leading to inconsistencies and errors.
- Show producers struggled to coordinate content and topics across multiple shows and stations.
- Lack of a centralised system for managing show schedules, advertisements, and news inserts.
- Difficult to adapt to last-minute programming changes.
The Approach
User-Centric Discovery & Prototyping
- Conducted extensive workshops with on-air talent, producers, and management.
- Developed interactive prototypes to validate workflows and user interface design.
- Defined the core data model for shows, topics, and scheduling.
Agile Development & Iteration
- Built the core application suite using .NET and a modern JavaScript frontend.
- Implemented a real-time backend using SignalR to push live updates to the on-air studios.
- Developed in iterative sprints, delivering features for feedback every two weeks.
System Integration & Rollout
- Integrated the new system with existing advertising and audio playout systems.
- Conducted phased rollouts, starting with one station and expanding across the network.
- Provided comprehensive training and support to all users.
What We Built
Core Application
- Live On-Air Dashboard
- Show & Topic Planner
- Content Management System
- User & Permissions Module
Backend & Integrations
- Real-Time Messaging Service
- SQL Server Database Schema
- API for third-party system integration
Operations
- Deployment pipeline to Azure
- System monitoring and alerts
- User training documentation
Outcomes
Provided a single source of truth for all on-air activities, reducing ambiguity.
Reduced on-air errors related to timing and content by over 60%.
Cut show preparation time for producers by an average of 30 minutes per show.
Enabled dynamic, real-time adjustments to programming.
Tech & Tools
.NET Core
C#
SQL Server
JavaScript
React
SignalR
Azure App Service
Azure DevOps
Key Principles
- Deeply Understand the User's Workflow
- In Real-Time Systems, Resilience is Paramount
- A Single Source of Truth Eliminates Chaos
- Iterate with End-Users Constantly
Ready to Transform Your Business?
Don't let technology challenges hold you back. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discover how we can help you build a scalable and resilient digital foundation.