Broadcast2Post | Podcast by Key Code Media
Cloud has been one of the biggest promises in post production for years. It offers flexibility, scalability, and the ability to support teams across multiple locations.
But as more productions move from testing to real world use, a bigger question is coming into focus: does using cloud for media production actually save money?
In this episode of the Broadcast2Post Podcast, host Michael Kammes speaks with Suzanne Greenfield, former Head of Post Production, International Originals, for Amazon Prime Video and MGM Studios, about what cloud workflows really cost and where they make the most sense.
1. Storage Is Only Part of the Cost Equation
Many organizations begin evaluating cloud workflows by comparing storage costs to on premise infrastructure. While storage is important, it is often not the largest expense.
Additional costs can include:
- Media ingress and egress
- Workstation compute resources
- User access and usage time
- Data transfers between vendors
Ongoing support and management
Understanding how media moves throughout a workflow can be just as important as knowing where it is stored.
2. Cloud Delivers Scalability More Than Cost Savings
One of the key takeaways from the discussion is that cloud should often be viewed as a scalability solution rather than a cost savings solution.
Cloud workflows can help organizations:
- Quickly onboard editors and creatives
- Support geographically distributed teams
- Expand resources as projects grow
Centralize media and permissions
For many productions, those operational benefits may provide more value than direct infrastructure savings.
3. Workflow Requirements Matter
Cloud is not a one size fits all solution. Successful implementations often depend on factors such as:
- Team locations
- Bandwidth availability
- Security requirements
- Production schedules
Workflow complexity
The more distributed and collaborative a project becomes, the more attractive cloud infrastructure can be.
4. Hybrid Environments Continue to Play an Important Role
Despite significant improvements in cloud technology, not every workflow is ready to move entirely off premises.
Areas such as audio production, latency sensitive work, and specialized post production requirements may still benefit from traditional infrastructure. As a result, many organizations are finding success with hybrid environments that combine cloud flexibility with on premises performance.
Designing Accessible Media Workflows
Key Code Media designs, integrates, and supports media infrastructure for broadcast, post production, and content creation teams. From on premises systems to hybrid and cloud workflows, we help organizations build infrastructure that supports collaboration, security, and operational efficiency as production requirements continue to evolve. Contact us for more information
Subscribe to the Podcast
