Sports content production is undergoing a period of rapid change. Multiple new production and delivery technologies are being adopted across the industry, delivering new opportunities for the sector.
These technologies can be transformative for broadcasters, sports brands, leagues, and individual clubs. Whatever your organization’s size and audience, it’s vital to stay informed of new trends so you can continue delivering content in ways your viewers expect.
In this article, you’ll learn about some of the most significant new trends in sports content production and strategies to make the most of these opportunities.
Strategies for sports content production and delivery in 2024
Whatever markets you cover, whether you’re a global media behemoth or a scrappy startup covering a niche sport, the following sports content production and delivery strategies will pay dividends in 2024.
1. Centralize content management
Production teams need a centralized hub to manage assets and collaborate across teams.
Technologies like Media Asset Management (MAM) allow production teams to organize and access game footage, highlights, interviews, and analysis whenever and wherever they choose.
Courtesy of the Goodwood Group
2. AI-powered clips and highlights
One game-changer in sports content production is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. And near real-time editing is of particular value to publishers.
In the past, creating highlights or short-form video clips required meticulous editing processes that could be time-consuming. With AI ‘coworkers,’ these tasks are executed in near real-time, providing an instantaneous and dynamic viewing experience.
Imagine a high-stakes game where a pivotal moment occurs, such as a game-winning goal, a breathtaking dunk, or a record-breaking performance. AI-powered content production software can instantly recognize key moments and generate highlights within minutes, allowing your editorial teams to be far more productive.
3. AI-powered analysis
Automated video analysis is another area where AI shines in content production. Instead of relying on manual efforts to dissect and analyze player performances, AI algorithms can process vast amounts of video footage, extracting valuable insights at any moment.
This speeds up the analysis process and provides a more comprehensive understanding of player strategies and team dynamics, making production and delivery smoother than ever.
Automated video analysis plays a significant role in how sports content is delivered. Now, production teams don’t have to upload full videos. Instead, using video analysis tools lets them create shorter videos with bigger highlights.
A report by Variety Intelligence Platform showed that about 50% of younger fans of major US sports leagues prefer short videos and highlights over watching entire games live.
4. FAST channels
The growing popularity of Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) channels for sports is expected to continue in 2024, appealing particularly to younger audiences who favor digital platforms over traditional TV.
These channels provide free access to a variety of sports content, from live games to analysis shows, and rely on targeted advertising to generate revenue. Their multi-device accessibility and interactive features enhance viewer engagement, making them an attractive alternative to paid services.
As younger viewers migrate to FAST channels, traditional broadcasters may face a shift in demographics and increased pressure to innovate, potentially leading to more collaborations and enhanced digital offerings in the sports broadcasting landscape.
5. Offering Premium Content Through Subscription Models
Subscription models represent a large chunk of monetized content. By offering exclusive access to premium content, producers can create a dedicated community of subscribers willing to pay for an enhanced experience. This may include:
- ad-free viewing,
- pay-per-view models,
- on-demand videos,
- early access to streams,
- interviews,
- or behind-the-scenes footage.
Subscription models provide a reliable and direct revenue stream while rewarding loyal fans with more interactive content delivery. In-platform purchases are another avenue for monetization, especially on platforms that support such transactions. Creators can offer merchandise, virtual goods, or special offers directly within the platform.
Strategies to succeed in content creation for 2024
The pace of technological advancement is neck-breaking. Creators must stay informed about emerging technologies and be ready to incorporate these innovations.
Today, sports viewing is becoming a journey that unfolds across various platforms, connecting the lines between reality and digital media management.
Traditional methods are not fading away. Instead, they are evolving into a new era where technology, accessibility, and engagement are at the forefront. And Backlight is leading the charge, enabling all stakeholders in the sports content industry to maximize new technologies and methods.
Are you ready to revolutionize your sports content production and delivery? Contact Backlight and discover how our full stack of solutions can help you stay ahead of the curve.