IBC2017 is approaching. Between now and then Radio World offers a series of short Q&As with manufacturers about their plans and offerings, to help you get the most out of the annual trade show. Christophe Poulain is Vice-President of Sales and Marcom for WorldCast Systems.
Radio World: How has business been for the company since last year¹s IBC show?
Christophe Poulain: Well, we have been very busy designing new innovative products, visiting customers all over the world and selling in more than 80 countries last year. We have also created a new company called WorldCast Connect, which is dedicated to Network Management Software Solutions for the Broadcast, Cable, Satellite and Telecom networks. So, pretty busy year, actually!
Radio World: What are you hearing from your customers about their business outlook this year? In what areas should we expect growth or the most interesting projects?
Poulain: Radio is everywhere and the situation is different from one country to the next. But overall, the market is dynamic with plenty of projects. Opportunities are everywhere honestly.
Radio World: What do you anticipate will be the most significant technology trend at IBC2017?
Poulain: I don’t see really new technology emerging but the continuity of what already started couple years ago with AoIP, SaaS, Virtualization, augmented radio, etc.
Radio World: You’ve been active in the monitoring, transmission and codec markets for more than 30 years. What¹s the biggest problem or challenge facing users in this segment right now?
Poulain: I see fewer technical staff. Engineers are busy dealing with many things simultaneously. They really need need reliable equipment they can depend on 24/7, as well as versatile, innovative products to deal with daily operations and new technology trends. That’s our focus, offering the best features at the best price.
Radio World: Has IP technology affected your company, if at all?
Poulain: Absolutely, we are definitely involved and our APT AoIP codecs are compatible with Dante. We are planing to integrate more existing protocols as well.
Radio World: What new products will your company be showing? Why should attendees visit your booth (8.C58)?
Poulain: For APT codecs, Dante compatibility, MPX over IP and monitoring of AoIP infrastructure with our WorldCast Manager software. As for Ecreso products, we have a new five-band audio processor available for all our FM transmitters as a software license. In addition, our Solar FM, low power turnkey solution based on solar energy is unique on the market! And, of course, we’ll be showing our high power FM transmitter Solid as a 1+1 (Ecreso FM 5 kW/10 kW). On the Audemat side, visitors will discover a new software release for FMMC5 test and measurement equipment and a very nice RDS2 demo. Finally, our new sister company WorldCast Connect will showcase the latest version of the WorldCast Manager NMS Software. If you need to monitor your broadcast facilities and infrastructure, make sure to stop by and have a look — great software!
Radio World: Is the IBC Show a good investment?
Poulain: Yes, it is. No doubt!
Radio World: What’s your favorite thing about the IBC show?
Poulain: Sunday morning, when I use my rental bike to go to the convention. The streets are empty and you can really enjoy the city. And of course, now that I am an IBC veteran (I am afraid…), I enjoy meeting with old friends and loyal customers!
Radio World: Social media is the new marketing frontier these days. Is it affecting the way your company does marketing/business?
Poulain: Yes, we definitely put some effort into social media and are trying to be more active. So, the answer is yes, it does affect the way we do our marketing and business.
