With little to differentiate it from last year, NAB, which took place at the end of April, was reckoned to have generated little buzz. The inevitable IP revolution is in full swing but old news, argued the panel.

It added that Ultra-HD seems to be driven by marketing whims rather than good engineering principles.

IP distribution and workflow efficiencies, particularly with relevance to the future of broadcast engineers, dominated the discussion at the RTS event.

Panel members suggested that adaptability and progressive attitudes were the most important qualities to succeed in television engineering.

The panellists hotly debated monetisation and the threat to traditional broadcasting from newcomers such as Amazon and Netflix.

Data analysis and viewer feedback through social media were identified as key factors in targeting content and advertising, but it was argued that traditional linear transmission is holding firm.

High-budget productions from the likes of Netflix were welcomed by the panel, but their longevity was questioned due to the short-term business models they employ.

Some members of the audience questioned the relevance of NAB. The panel, however, highlighted the need for social interaction in business. It also applauded the IP Showcase at the Las Vegas show for its demonstrations of technical excellence and interoperability.