Why IMF for archival applications?

The world is moving to component-based workflows

Workflows are increasingly becoming component-based, where the elements of a presentation (audio, video, timed text, etc.) are stored and processed individually.

This transition is driven by:

• the proliferation of localized versions due to worldwide distribution and acquisition
• the multiplication of viewing experiences (living room, mobile, PC, etc.)
• the expanding repertoire of audio-visual essence (access services, immersive sound, HDR, 4K, etc.)

Instead of manufacturing and managing a large inventory of individual and independent masters, component-based workflows allow deliverables to be assembled just-in-time from available components to match the needs of the recipient.

IMF organizes loose components

IMF simplifies the interchange and storage of component-based audio-visual media:

• it standardizes the storage of components using the MXF file format
• it defines a timeline that uses XML to synchronize components and metadata
• it standardizes a package that allows components to be stored on, and exchanged through, on a wide range of mechanism, from tapes to websites

By standardizing the representation of essence, metadata and timeline, IMF reduces the friction to automation, search, exchange and long-term exploitation. By defining a timeline, it ensures that audio-visual essence and metadata remain synchronized.

IMF is well-suited to replace ad hoc systems where the relationship between components is inferred through conventions (file name, directory layout, etc.) and where metadata is unstructured.