7fivefive helps BBC Studios’ Media & Streaming team shift to and scale cloud-based post workflows, supporting efficient resource management and collaboration across time zones.
BBC Studios’ Global Media & Streaming team has been undergoing a digital transformation since 2020, moving to a virtual infrastructure that enables them to manage resources efficiently while collaborating across different time zones. To realise their cloud-first vision, they have been working with 7fivefive, together with Amazon Web Services (AWS), the BBC’s selected cloud provider.
7fivefive, an expert in systems innovation and integration, works with organisations to build new workflows using cloud and hybrid infrastructure. With a focus on customisation and a sound understanding of workstation requirements for creative teams, 7fivefive has developed its Lens platform to support collaboration in cloud environments, leading to more efficient resource management and allowing real-time analytics.
Scaling the Virtual Infrastructure
Most recently, the project’s attention has turned to scaling the virtual infrastructure, for which 7fivefive is delivering the remote editing backbone – the central infrastructure within the wider network, interconnecting the local sub-networks – that supports post-production and content-based workflows. In effect, 7fivefive’s cloud expertise now underpins the Global Media & Streaming teams’ post-production process.
Throughout the project, 7fivefive has served as strategic consultant, designing and implementing solutions that enhance responsiveness and reduce overheads. Consequently, as the media industry shifts to the cloud, BBC Studios is already embracing a framework that delivers the speed, flexibility and cost effectiveness of its post operations over the longer term.
Dynamic Provisioning
The system is designed to dynamically scale active resources, with automated controls that support productivity. Virtual workstations can be provisioned and optimised based on real-time requirements, empowering users to self-serve without compromising on performance.
Different teams receive customised resources that are best suited to specific creative tasks, across editing, graphics, colour grading, compliance and branding. Access management supports single sign-on (SSO) and Active Directory services for secure user authentication and role-based access control.
The latest phase of the project deploys Adobe software and AWS services within a unified cloud environment. Regional departments can transition between projects directly, access content securely from anywhere, manage allocation and act on data-driven insights. Pools of users are categorised to support custom GPU and CPU allocation and prevent unnecessary use of higher cost resources.
Predictive cost metrics and automated budget management can be applied, based on detailed analytics, helping to inform the media team and indicating how their business objectives can be met without compromising creative quality or affecting operational goals.
Continued Partnership
Managing Director of 7fivefive Tim Burton said, "We are very proud to continue our long-standing partnership with BBC Studios, providing the technology, insights and strategic support that helps make its cloud-first approach to post-production infrastructure possible.
“These workflows enable creative teams to focus on the task at hand, while the complexity of integrated cloud resources is navigated via an accessible interface. Through our shared commitment to innovation, they will be well-equipped for the media challenges of the future."
Emma Ellis, Creative Services Technology Manager, Global Technology at BBC Studios commented, “7fivefive's cloud expertise and practical insight have been essential as we modernise our creative technology stack and post-production workflows, and implement optimisations with confidence and efficiency.
“These enhancements have increased flexibility across our creative teams, opening access to remote editing resources and global media content from anywhere. This shift has not only brought operational efficiency, but has ensured we can continue delivering high-quality, engaging content to audiences worldwide.”
Adam Jakubowski, VP of Technical Operations, Global Technology at BBC Studios also said, "The collaboration with 7fivefive has played a key role in our cloud trajectory. We have scaled virtual post-production workflows over the past 5 years, and adaptive resource allocation continues to improve cost and workflow efficiency. The increase in flexibility means we can respond to evolving business and industry needs and enhance the autonomy and agility of our creative teams." 7fivefive.com
