Convergence in action?

Convergence of broadcasting, publishing, telecommunications and computers into a single industry seems inevitable in the longer term. Digital technology is the source of this convergence. The transition to digital technology, together with the process of convergence, will have profound effects on the technology of broadcasting-not only for delivery systems, but also for content production. Until now, broadcasters have played a dominant role in setting standards for broadcasting. However, major players in the fields of telecommunications and computers already consider broadcasting to be a sub-set of their own industries. The danger is that these new players might try to impose their technologies and standards on broadcasters and content providers. Experience in the Digital Audio Visual Council (DAVIC) suggests that few content providers, and even fewer broadcasters, are taking an active interest in developing specifications for advanced digital audio and video services.