MSA Focus a Hit with Asian Music Channel

Content + Technology, Sept 8th 2011

MSA Focus, the provider of specialist business management services for broadcasters, has enjoyed a long and developing partnership at Malaysia-based satellite broadcaster Astro since implementing its enterprise product ForeTV in 2009. The latest addition to the functionality supports a host of new services to be introduced by the Hitz TV music channel.

Hitz currently uses an in-house music scheduling system, which is to be replaced by ForeTV in this project. The aim is to allow Hitz to streamline its operation, providing lively and varied channels with plenty of viewer interaction and on-screen graphics, all delivered automatically.

For each music video ForeTV will store the core metadata – such as artist, title, recording and so on – but also allow for other information to be added. That could be background information or even gossip about the performer, which can be added to the graphics to create more interest. ForeTV will then support the scheduling, not just of music clips, but secondary and tertiary events to add extra graphics and other effects.

Reflecting on the continuing relationship with Astro, MSA Focus’ head of projects Nicola Sturgess said, “Astro has been an extremely exciting and successful project for us. This new chapter demonstrates the flexibility of ForeTV and our commitment to working with Astro to enhance their business operations. We have developed a strong working relationship that continues to add value to both parties.”