This article is a summary of the Operation of playback of in-game motion graphics on LED displays in a sports venue during a live game production. This operator is a key position in a live sporting event production for videoboard displays during a live sporting event.
We will refer to this position as a Content Playback Operator (CPO) — Although it is important to note that this position does much more than simply play back content.
This position typically operates these most commonly found LED control programs:
- Chyron Systems
- Ross Video Systems (Xpression Tessera, Mosaic, etc)
- Daktronics Show Control / Content Studio
- Motion Rocket
- OES Bolt
- ProPresenter
Here are some key insight about the type of hire you will need for this playback position:
OVERVIEW OF POSITION
Description of skills/capabilities for Content Playback Operator in a live sports venue control room.
This position is a vital piece of the production; requiring planning, organization, and quick reaction to in-game scenarios. There are key areas that this position will need to manage:
- 1 – STATS AND DATA PROGRAMMING
- 2 – PLAYBACK OF SCRIPTED VIDEOS AND ELEMENTS
- 3 – QUICK REACTION PLAYBACK OF GAME SCENARIO ANIMATIONS
- 4 – FILE and DATA MANAGEMENT
STATS AND DATA PROGRAMMING:
The typical LED Playback system integrates stats feeds and graphic design elements to present Game-In-Progress (GIP) data/layouts. All of this type of work is done well ahead of game day. The layout, design, and programming of various data/score elements should be intentionally designed for clear visibility, strong brand presentation, and sponsor integration (if applicable.) These designs are typically long term layouts, built in specific “zones” of each display, with easy-to-update areas such as visit team name/logo.
PLAYBACK OF SCRIPTED VIDEOS AND ELEMENTS:
Every sporting event needs to be organized with a game-day script. This document outlines every element, video, and pre-planned “moment” in your game-day production. From doors-open to final “thank you for attending”, any content that needs to be displayed in the presentation should be blocked/earmarked from various playback sources.
During the GameDay Production, your CPO will be vital in playing back elements at their proper time. It is critical that the operator be very organized and have good listening/communication skills to always be in tune with the production. This position will be the backbone of a great GameDay Presentation.
QUICK REACT PLAYBACK OF GAME SCENARIO ANIMATIONS:
You can’t script great plays or touchdowns… therefore, the CPO needs to be quick to react to events on the field/court. The operator should be attentive, and always engaged with what’s happening in the game, to quickly respond and playback the appropriate in-game elements.
FILE AND DATA MANAGEMENT
As stated above, a high level of organization is critical to keeping the show simple but effective. File management on the computer is critical. The operator will receive a large amount of files for each game — some will be used for one event only, and some will be reused throughout the season. It is important that the operator have good file management skills to sort/keep/discard and backup all needed materials.
GOOD COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Communication is critical. A good operator always knows where they are in the script— but great operators communicate it to the rest of the crew in a way that provides organization and clarity. It is extremely helpful to hear a “ready” or “got-it, good to go!” To enhance the synchronized timing of a production. The best operators are the ones that keep the room cohesive with good communication.
ADDITIONAL SKILLS:
It is a great benefit to have a CPO that is familiar with graphic design software, such as Adobe Photoshop and AfterEffects. It is extremely helpful if your operator can open master template files to make “tweaks and adjustments” on their own.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Collegiate productions have high turnover. Labor budgets are a factor. Student operators are a vital part of a GameDay Production. It should be assumed that training a new operator will be part of the start-up process, and from time to time your “Ace” operator will graduate or move on and you will need to start over.
An ideal potential candidate should:
- Portray a balance of computer proficiency AND people skills.
- Have experience in Adobe Creative Suite/Video editing
- Demonstrate a dedicated/consistent schedule of availability. The best operators come from consistent exposure and training.
- Have desire to have a career in sports, not just an avid fan.
CONCLUSION:
The Content Playback Operator position is one of the most critical roles in the control room on game day. This position acts as the “hub” for a majority of content displayed on the screens, and the timing of this content is critical to a professional presentation. The best operators not only understand how to push the right buttons, but also are in tune with what’s happening in the game so they stitch together a smooth and purposeful production. A highly organized person that can keep their cool in a stressful moment will win the day. While technical skills are obviously big part of the equation, any sharp candidate can likely be trained to produce a high level presentation.
