Introduction to the 2019 Progress Report: Building Communities

Like no other industry, the rapid advances in technology and new content formats pose a particular challenge to media. This goes hand in hand with the transition of technology to more and more software-driven systems of which artificial intelligence (AI), cloud, Internet Protocol (IP), and metadata are prime examples. Users and business are constantly compelled to innovate either in their techniques and products or in new content formats. The annual SMPTE progress report highlights key advances in technology and recognizes the work of many other organizations in the broader media sector. The objective is to share the progress and facilitate a better understanding of the roles of fellow stakeholders in the media ecosystem. Ultimately, we can shape the media future together through collaborations, proactive liaisons, and building communities.