JP2013225877A - Systems and methods for semantic editorial control and video/audio editing - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a media content management application that allows a user to create and customize a version of media content on the basis of semantic criteria.SOLUTION: On the basis of the semantic criteria, the media content management application uses editing/assembly software packages to construct a version of the media content for an intended audience. In addition, the media content management application uses the semantic criteria to provide the user with options for optimizing the cost of the version of the media content, options for delivering the version of the media content, and/or options for delivery mediums to transmit the version of the media content.

Description

  The present invention relates to the field of media generation and editing, and more particularly to systems and methods for generating, customizing, and distributing media content using semantic criteria.

  Media content is generated with the goal of causing the content to be viewed, listened to, or otherwise received by the target audience. The target audience is, for example, the whole world, a single country, a region, a city, a neighbor, or a specific individual. However, it is a difficult process to distribute desired content and target the desired content to a desired viewer. It is often difficult to control which consumers receive specific media content. As a result, content distributors or creators must supply content to a larger or smaller area than desired.

  For example, marketers and advertisers have relied on demographic solutions to establish patterns and trends regarding target audience purchase habits. Market traders and advertisers use the derived information to generate observations about their markets, direct individuals to different types of products, and select appropriate media purchases for advertising. In the case of video advertising media, such as emailed videotapes, Internet video streams, or broadcast or cable advertisements, customized versions of advertisements, or direct marketing information that directly incorporates the benefits of information available about the target audience. There are only limited means for generating. Therefore, even if the company knows a huge amount of information about the target audience, the ability to use this information is limited by the fundamentals of broadcast media, so send similar messages to all customers Is required.

  In another example, a market trader and / or advertiser creates a general advertising campaign. When a parent company purchases a general campaign from market traders and advertisers, the company typically supplies the campaign to their field office (eg, a subsidiary organization) for distribution. Each field office typically employs a separate advertising agency to modify advertisements based on their respective markets, for example. This process of changing advertisements is not only costly, but the messages included in the changed advertisements may be different from the general campaigns desired by the parent organization. Furthermore, the changes made may be made separately and therefore redundant by different field offices. This is an expensive and ineffective way of generating and distributing content.

  Accordingly, there is a need for a system and method for content management management that overcomes these and other shortcomings of conventional systems.

  In accordance with the present invention, systems and methods are provided for generating, customizing, and / or distributing media content. In general, systems and methods are provided that allow a user to manage the editing of media content and make decisions regarding media content based on semantic criteria and other matters.

  Generally speaking, the present invention provides certain metadata characteristics (eg, male, female, unknown) to users (eg, advertisers, market traders, field offices, parent company subsidiaries, cable television operators, etc.). The media content management application can be given a semantic standard that associates gender, zip code, vehicle type, age, race, etc.). For example, semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics may be related to the intended audience for the media content. In response, the application extracts metadata characteristics and performs the necessary functions to generate one or more versions (eg, advertisements) of the media content. This one or more versions of the media content are provided to the user. It is developed by professional editing / assembly software such as editing software developed by Avid Technology Inc., “Final Cut Pro” developed by Apple Computer Inc., Visible World. It can be performed by a user who does not have knowledge of IntelliSpot or other integrated software. That is, the media content management application uses one or more of these professional editing / integration software or software packages, or these professional editing / integration, depending on the semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics provided. Send information to another user (eg, a “visible world” employee) who has knowledge of the software or software package or other software to generate one or more versions of the media content corresponding to the metadata characteristics be able to.

  Professional editing / integration software allows users to become familiar with the software editing toolset and details of media content, such as editing points, sequences of media segments, how audio segments are combined into video segments, Need to be familiar with whether background audio tracks are combined into video segments, which media segments are customized and / or exchanged, and any other suitable details related to media content To do. In addition, professional editing / integration software allows the user to know the database structure called by the editing / integration software, or which metadata to how audio segments, video segments, or any other suitable media segment. You need to know what has been combined. Media content management applications avoid these difficulties of professional editing / integrated software packages. This is because the user is given an abstraction in the form of semantic controls or semantic criteria. In response to the semantic control, the semantic control is converted into a function performed by one of these professional editing / integrated software packages. Thus, the user of the media content management application need not have knowledge of professional editing / integrated software packages or how to put together media content (eg, advertisements). Furthermore, the user of the media content management application has knowledge of the structure of the database accessed by the professional editing / integrated software package, or knowledge of what metadata is associated with the media segments stored in the database. There is no need.

  In addition, media content management applications allow users (eg, advertisers) to have media content without knowledge of media planning and placement, dynamic processing, production, and post-production. Makes it possible to generate versions of

  Note that the user and / or media content management application need not have a database or special purpose database that assembles versions of media content. The media content management application uses editing / integration software to version media content with appropriate media segments (eg, audio portion, video portion, background audio, narration, images, animation, graphics, etc.). And having a special purpose database (eg, an object oriented database with multiple media segments including media segments not desired by the user) and / or without having to maintain versions of the media content Avoid these difficulties by giving to the user. A media segment related to the semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics is used to generate a version of the media content.

  Using this application, the user can order and receive a completed version of the media content. The finished version is a distribution point on any suitable media (eg, video tape, DVD, CD, MPEG-2 format, MPEG-4 format, standard resolution format, high resolution format, media format, media resolution, download, etc.) Is sent to.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may provide the user with additional semantic criteria for adjusting media content versions.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may send a version of the media content to the distribution point.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application can send a version of the media content in a particular distribution format.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may optimize the cost of the media content version. In some embodiments, the media content management application may attach semantic criteria to each version of the media content and allow the user to manage the cost of the version of the media content. A cost associated with each version of the media content based on the attached semantic criteria can be given to the user. The user can then select one of the plurality of versions of the media content based at least in part on the cost associated with each version of the media content.

  In some embodiments, the attached semantic criteria are: terms and conditions with “Screen Actors Guild”, compensation agreement with talent, media costs for media content, actor costs, media content version The number of weeks required to integrate, the cost of on-camera performers, the cost of off-camera performers, extra costs, narrator costs, musician costs, music costs One or more of costs, distribution costs, production implications, talent implications, and distribution implications.

  In some embodiments, the attached semantic criteria are used to recommend one of multiple versions of media content to the user (eg, based on cost).

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may provide the user with multiple delivery options including a delivery format determined using the selected semantic criteria.

  In some embodiments, the distribution format is one of video tape, DVD, CD, high resolution format, standard resolution format, MPEG-2 format, MPEG-4 format, media format, and media resolution.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application recommends a delivery format to the user using semantic criteria.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application uses semantic criteria to screen at least one delivery format from the plurality of delivery formats for the user.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may allow a user to select at least one distribution format from a plurality of distribution formats for at least one version of the media content.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application allows a user to select at least one distribution point from a plurality of distribution points for a version of the media content.

  In some embodiments, the at least one distribution point is one of a specific market, broadcaster, affiliate, company, cable interconnect, headend, cable television operator, and individual.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application recommends at least one delivery point to the user using semantic criteria.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application uses semantic criteria to screen at least one distribution point from the plurality of distribution points.

  The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the more important features of the present invention in order that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood and so that the contribution of the invention to this technology may be better understood. Of course, additional features of the invention will also be described hereinafter that form the subject of the appended claims.

  In this regard, before describing at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, the present invention, in its application, is described in the following description or illustrated in the structural details and component arrangements shown in the drawings. It should be understood that it is not limited. The invention is capable of other implementations and can be practiced in various ways. It should also be understood that the expressions and terms used herein are illustrative and not limiting.

  Thus, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the concepts underlying the present disclosure can be readily utilized as a basis for designing other structures, methods and systems for accomplishing the various objectives of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

  These and other objects of the invention, as well as various novel features that characterize the invention, are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the present invention, the advantages of its operation, and the specific objects achieved by the use of the present invention, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and description in which preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated. is there.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a media content management system in which a media content management application is implemented in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a workstation and server provided by some embodiments of the present invention, for example in FIG. FIG. 6 illustrates a home screen provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 5 illustrates a customization screen with options to customize and edit media content provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates a message template provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the contents of a media database provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates a planning screen provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates an approval screen with an option to further customize one or more versions of media content provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates an approval screen with an option to further customize one or more versions of media content provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates an approval screen with an option to further customize one or more versions of media content provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates a screen for ordering integration, production, and distribution of media content provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates a screen for ordering integration, production, and distribution of media content provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates a screen for ordering integration, production, and distribution of media content provided by some embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates a screen for ordering media content integration, production, and distribution provided by some embodiments of the present invention.

  This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 686,612, filed Jun. 8, 2005, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

  Various objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which like elements are identified with like reference numerals. It will be.

  The following description includes a number of specific details. It is to be understood that such details are included for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, some features well known in the art will not be described in detail so as not to complicate the subject matter of the present invention. Further, it should be understood that features in one embodiment can be combined with features in other embodiments of the invention.

  In accordance with the present invention, systems and methods for generating, customizing, and / or distributing media content (hereinafter “media content management application” or “application”) are provided. More specifically, systems and methods are provided that allow a user to manage the editing of media content and make decisions regarding media content based on semantic criteria and other matters.

  Generally speaking, the present invention allows users (eg, advertisers, market traders, field offices, parent company subsidiaries, cable television operators, etc.) to have certain metadata characteristics (eg, male, female, unknown Can be given to the application a semantic criterion that associates gender, zip code, vehicle type, age, race, etc.). For example, semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics relate to the intended audience for the media content. In response, the application extracts metadata characteristics and performs the necessary functional functions to generate one or more versions of media content (eg, advertisements). The one or more versions of media content are provided to the user. This includes professional editing / integrated software such as editing software developed by Avid Technology Inc., “Final Cut Pro” developed by Apple Computer Inc., intelliSpot developed by Visible World, or It can be performed by a user having no knowledge of other integrated software or the like. That is, in response to providing semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics, the media content management application may use one or more of these professional editing / integration software or software packages, or these professional editing / integration software. Or the information can be sent to another user with knowledge of the software package to generate one or more versions of the media content corresponding to the metadata characteristics.

  Professional editing / integration software allows users to become familiar with the software editing tools and details of media content, such as editing points, sequences of media segments, how audio segments are combined into video segments, and how It is necessary to be familiar with whether background audio tracks are combined with video segments, which media segments are customized and / or exchanged, and other suitable details related to media content. In addition, professional editing / integration software allows the user to know the database structure called by the editing / integration software, or what metadata is combined into audio segments, video segments, or other suitable media segments. Need to know what. Media content management applications avoid these difficulties of professional editing / integrated software packages. This is because the user is given an abstraction in the form of semantic controls or semantic criteria. In response to the semantic control, the semantic control is converted into a function performed by one of these professional editing / integrated software packages. Thus, users of media content management applications do not need to have knowledge of professional editing / integrated software packages or how to integrate media content (eg, advertisements). Furthermore, the user of the media content management application has knowledge of the structure of the database accessed by the professional editing / integrated software package, or knowledge of what metadata is associated with the media segments stored in the database. There is no need.

  In addition, the media content management application generates media content versions for users (eg, advertisers) without knowledge of media planning and placement, dynamic processing, production, and post-production. Make it possible.

  Note that the user does not have to enter all the required metadata characteristics necessary to generate one or more versions of the media content. For example, the user may enter that the intended viewer lives in the zip code “10020”. In response, the media content management application may not require the user to know other information about the intended viewer of zip code “10020”. The media content management application can obtain metadata characteristics corresponding to the intended viewer from another entity, database, or other suitable source. For example, the media content management application may indicate that from the input zip code “10020”, the intended viewers are 60% male, 40% female and 80% have a higher income level than $ 100,000. And that 60% are Caucasian.

  It should also be noted that the user need not have a database or special purpose database that consolidates versions of media content. The media content management application uses editing / integration software to version media content with appropriate media segments (eg, audio portion, video portion, background audio, narration, images, animation, graphics, etc.). And providing it to the user without having and / or maintaining a special purpose database (eg, an object-oriented database with multiple media segments including media segments that the user does not want) Avoid these difficulties. A media segment related to the semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics is used to generate a version of the media content.

  Using this application, the user can order and receive a completed version of the media content. The completed version is sent to the distribution point on appropriate media (eg, videotape, DVD, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, standard resolution, high resolution, download, etc.).

  The following FIGS. 1-14 and their accompanying description provide examples of the system and method of the present invention.

  FIG. 1 is a generalized schematic diagram illustrating a media content management system 100 in which a media content management application is implemented in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the system 100 includes one or more workstations 102. These workstations 102 may be local to each other or remote from each other. Workstation 102 is connected to communication network 106 by one or more communication links 104, which are linked to server 110 by communication link 108.

  The system 100 includes one or more servers 110. Server 110 can be any suitable server that provides access to a media content management application, for example, a processor, a computer, a data processing device, or a combination of such devices. The communication network 106 includes the Internet, an intranet, a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a wireless network, a digital subscriber line (DSL) network, a frame relay network, an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) network, and a virtual private network. (VPN), or any suitable computer network including a combination of these networks. Communication links 104 and 108 may be any communication link suitable for communicating data between workstation 102 and server 110, such as a network link, dial-up link, wireless link, hard wire drink, other suitable It can be a communication link or a combination of such links. . The workstation 102 allows the user to access the functions of the media content management application. The workstation 102 can be a personal computer, laptop computer, mainframe computer, dumb terminal, data display, internet browser, personal digital assistant (PDA), two-way pager, wireless terminal, portable phone, other suitable access device, or Any combination of these devices can be used. The workstation 102 and server 110 can be located at any suitable location. In one embodiment, workstation 102 and server 110 are located within an organization. Alternatively, workstation 102 and server 110 may be distributed among multiple organizations.

  The server and one workstation shown in FIG. 1 are shown in detail in FIG. Referring to FIG. 2, the workstation 102 includes a processor 202, a display 204, an input device 206, and a memory 208, which are interconnected. In a preferred embodiment, memory 208 includes a storage device that stores a workstation program for controlling processor 202.

  The processor 202 can use a workstation program to show on the display 204 the applications and data received via the communication link 104 and the commands and values sent by the user of the workstation 102. It should also be noted that data received via communication link 104 or any other communication link may be received from a suitable source such as a web service. Input device 206 may be a computer keyboard, cursor-controller, dial, switchbank, lever, or other suitable input device used by the designer of the input or process control system.

  Server 110 includes a processor 220, a display 222, an input device 224, and a memory 226, which can be interconnected. In a preferred embodiment, the memory 226 includes a storage device for storing data received over the communication link 108 or other link and also receives commands and values sent by one or more users. The storage device further includes a server program for controlling the processor 220.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may include an application program interface (not shown) or may reside on the workstation 102 or server 110. In another suitable embodiment, the only distribution to the workstation 102 is a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows the user to interact with, for example, a media content management application resident on the server 110.

  In one particular embodiment, the media content management application includes client-side software, hardware, or both. For example, an application includes one or more web pages or web page portions (eg, hypertext markup language (HTML), dynamic hypertext markup language (DHTML), extensible markup language (XML)). , Java server page (JSP), active server page (ASP), any suitable encoding such as Cold Fusion, or any other suitable technique).

  Although the media content management application is described herein as being implemented at a workstation and / or server, this is merely an example. The application can be any suitable platform (eg, personal computer (PC), mainframe computer, dumb terminal, data display, two-way pager, wireless terminal, portable phone, portable computer, palm, etc.) to provide such functionality. It may be mounted on a top computer, an H / PC, an automobile PC, a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile phone / PDA multifunction machine, or the like.

  It should also be understood that the detailed description provided herein is presented in terms of program procedures executed on a computer or network of computers. These procedural descriptions and representations are the means used by those skilled in the art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art.

  A procedure is generally considered here as a self-consistent sequence of steps that yields the desired result. These steps are those requiring physical manipulation of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common usage, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like. It should be noted, however, that these and similar terms are all to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient representations applied to these quantities.

  Furthermore, the operations performed are commonly referred to in terms such as addition or comparison associated with the computation of brain activity performed by a human operator. In any of the operations described herein that form part of the present invention, this capability of a human operator is in most cases not required or desired. That is, the calculation is a machine calculation. Useful machines for performing the operations of the present invention include general purpose digital computers or similar devices.

  The present invention also relates to an apparatus for performing these operations. This apparatus may be specially configured for the required purposes, or it may include a general purpose computer selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored on the computer. The procedure shown here is not inherently related to a particular computer or other device. Various general purpose machines may be used in programs written based on the teachings presented herein, or it may be more convenient to configure more specialized equipment to perform the necessary method steps. Is shown. The required structure for a variety of these machines will appear from the description given.

  The system according to the present invention may comprise a general purpose computer or a specially programmed special purpose computer. A user can interact with the system via, for example, a personal computer, a PDA, the Internet, an intranet, and the like. Any of these may be implemented as a distributed computer system rather than a single computer. Similarly, the communication link may be a dedicated link, a modem over POTS line, the Internet, and / or any other way of communicating between computers and / or users. Further, the processing may be controlled by a software program in one or more computer systems or processors, or may be implemented partially or wholly in hardware.

  Although a single computer can be used, the system according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is optionally equipped with multiple processors or storage devices or combinations thereof as appropriate. For example, the computer may be replaced with or combined with a suitable processing system that operates in accordance with the concepts of embodiments of the present invention, which may be an elaborate calculator, handheld, laptop / Includes notebooks, minis, mainframes and supercomputers, and combinations of their processing system networks. Furthermore, a part of the system may be provided in a suitable electronic form, for example it may be provided as an electronic signal via a communication line, may be provided on a CD and / or DVD, or optical. It may be provided in a disk memory, and so on.

  Such embodiments of the present invention may use currently available or future developed computer software languages and / or hardware components. For example, at least some of the functions described above can be implemented using visual basic, C, C ++, or assembly language suitable from the perspective of the processor used. It can also be written in an object-oriented and / or interpretation environment, such as Java, to reach multiple destinations for different users.

  Referring now to FIG. 3, an exemplary home screen 300 provided by some embodiments of the present invention is displayed. Media content management applications are designed to give users the ability to efficiently and conveniently generate, customize, and / or distribute media content using semantic criteria. This is, for example, information about the media content by the user (for example, which media segments are available, which media segments are new, inventory information, sales information, sales results, discount information, usable templates, etc.) Including enabling browsing.

  As shown in FIG. 3, screen 300 relates to generating, customizing, and / or distributing media content related to a car (eg, a car commercial). However, the media content may relate to other suitable subjects, such as travel, electronic devices, political campaigns, and the like.

  Screen 300 shows campaigns, campaign templates (eg, campaign templates for 30-second commercials of multiple vehicles), inventory (eg, newly delivered vehicles and allocations in the northeast), sales volume (eg, 2004 3rd quarter sales results, sales results to date, annual sales report, etc.), discounts (eg, October and November discounts, year-end discounts, lease discounts, etc.), and Contains information regarding updated media content (eg, new campaign templates available, new media content for selection, etc.).

  As shown, the screen 300 of FIG. 3 is designed to be provided on a computer display (eg, the display 204 of the workstation 102 of FIGS. 1 and 2 or the display 222 of the server 110). However, it should be noted that the screen format and content described below can be modified to accommodate different platforms as needed. It should also be noted that some, all, or alternatives of the screens described below may be provided to users of media content management applications according to the present invention.

  Media content management applications are used by advertisers, marketers, field office users, parent company users, parent company subsidiary users, and cable television operators to generate, customize and / or distribute media content. Can be accessed by a variety of users, including but not limited to: In some embodiments, the media content management application may provide different functions to each of these users. For example, advertisers are allowed to generate various versions of commercial spots, while field office users are only allowed to make some changes to one or more commercial spots. Not. In such an embodiment, the commercial spot generated by the advertiser may be customized by other users, but in a manner that does not change the overall message. Alternatively, some users (eg, advertisers or marketers) are allowed to generate and / or customize media content while other users (eg, users in the field office) purchase media content. Or may be allowed to receive.

  The media content management application provides the user with an interface 340 for creating, customizing, and / or distributing media content. As shown in FIG. 3, a “Home” button is currently selected in the interface 340.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may allow a user to choose to receive media content. For example, the user is provided with an interface having a plurality of media content. In response to a selection by the user, the media content management application retrieves the media content from a library of media content and provides the media content to the user. A library of content is provided to the user, for example in the form of a list, database, or other suitable approach for providing content to the user. Alternatively, the media content management application may provide the user with one or more semantic criteria for generating and / or customizing the media content. Segments (eg, audio parts, video parts, background audio, narration, images, etc.) are retrieved from a library of content and media content using an editing / integrated software package, editing / integrated system. It may be integrated to generate, or the user may do this using an editing / integrating software package or editing / integrating system. The user can preview the content before purchasing the content or during or after the selection and generation process.

  Returning to FIG. 3, in response to the user selecting a “preview” button on the interface 340, the media content management application provides the user with a generation screen 400 (FIG. 4). In some embodiments, the media content management application provides the user with a list of campaigns (eg, a car advertising campaign, a politician advertising campaign, etc.) or a list of generated media content. In response to the selection of a specific campaign or specific media content, the media content management application provides the user with a screen 400 for customizing the media content using semantic criteria.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may provide the user with one or more semantic criteria (eg, in the form of questions or options) regarding the media content. Using the response to the semantic criteria, the media content management application provides the user with semantic editing control. For example, the media content management application provides the user with one or more abstract questions for information about gender, wealth, ethnicity, advertising style, discount format, etc. Based on the response to each question, the media content management application uses an edit / integrated software package to determine which media segment is associated with the response, search for the corresponding media segment, and / or One or more versions of the media content can be integrated.

  In one embodiment, the media content management application provides the user with the question “what discount?” In response to the user entering that a 20% off discount should be conveyed on the media content, the media content management application performs the routines necessary to generate the media content conveying such a message. For example, a media content management application may associate such a response with a media segment for a 20% off sale discount (eg, an audio segment describing a discount, a video segment describing a discount, a discount Soundtracks that go along, disclaimers displayed with discounts, how to order media segments, how to merge audio segments into video segments, which segments overlap, how background Merge audio tracks into video segments, etc.). The media content management application sends semantic criteria to the user of the editing / integrated software package, editing / integrating system, or editing / integrating software package or editing / integrating system that builds a version of media content for the user.

  As shown in FIG. 4, screen 400 provides the user with a list of semantic criteria 420 for the media content to be generated. Using screen 400 or any other suitable interface, the media content management application allows the user to manage the editing of media content and make decisions regarding media content (or media content versions) based on semantic criteria. Like that. Semantic criteria 420 includes, for example, options related to advertising style, options related to events, options related to vehicle types, options related to vehicle models, options related to discounts, options related to the target viewer's gender (eg, male or female), targets Options related to viewers' wealth (eg, $ 70,000 + revenue), options related to target audience ethnicity (eg, Caucasian, African American, Spanish, Asian, etc.) Options related to geography (eg, Tohoku, South, Europe, Asia, etc.), and so on. Any other suitable criteria may be provided. For example, criteria for target audience likes and dislikes (eg, viewers like sports-related commercials, viewers like advertisements with dogs, etc.) may be provided.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a media content management application may allow a user, such as an advertiser, to respond to questions that have semantic criteria. The response to the semantic criteria (eg, semantic criteria 420) is used by the media content management application to perform the functions necessary to generate one or more versions of the media content. For example, in response to a user indicating that the intended viewer's gender is “male”, the media content management application uses this semantic criteria to determine which version of the media content to build. Determine if the media segment can be used. In one embodiment, the media content management application provides semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics (eg, male) to an edit / integrated software package or a user of an edit / integrated software package. This editing / integration software package can be used to search media segments for semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics and to integrate one or more versions of media content.

  Professional editing / integration software (eg, editing software developed by Avid Technology Inc., “Final Cut Pro” developed by Apple Computer Inc., IntelliSpot developed by Visible World or other integration Software, etc.) the user is familiar with the details of the software editing toolset and media content, eg, editing points, sequences of media segments, how audio segments are combined into video segments, how Become familiar with whether background audio tracks are combined into video segments, which media segments are customized and / or exchanged, and any other suitable details related to media content It requires that. In addition, professional editing / integration software allows the user to know the database structure called by the editing / integration software, or which metadata to how audio segments, video segments, or any other suitable media segment. You need to know what has been combined. Media content management applications avoid these difficulties. This is because the user is given an abstraction in the form of semantic control or semantic criteria. Depending on the semantic criteria, the semantic criteria are translated into functions performed by one of these professional editing / integrated software packages. Depending on the semantic criteria, the media content management application may use one or more of these professional editing / integrated software packages or pass information to another user with knowledge of these editing / integrated software packages. Send to generate one or more versions of media content corresponding to the metadata characteristics. Thus, users of media content management applications do not need to have knowledge of professional editing / integrated software packages or how to integrate media content (eg, advertisements). Furthermore, the user of the media content management application has knowledge of the structure of the database accessed by the professional editing / integrated software package, or knowledge of what metadata is associated with the media segments stored in the database. There is no need.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may use the semantic criteria provided by the user to obtain additional information about the intended viewer of the media content version. For example, the user enters in the “Geography” field of FIG. 4 that the intended viewer lives in zip code “10020”. In response, the media content management application does not require the user to know any other information about the intended viewer at zip code “10020”. The media content management application may obtain metadata characteristics corresponding to the intended viewer from another entity, database, or any other suitable source. For example, a media content management application may have an input level of “10020” from which the intended viewer is 60% male, 40% female and 80% has a higher income level than $ 100,000. , And 60% can be extracted as Caucasian. In another example, the media content management application may retrieve information from different sources (eg, US Census Bureau website, Market Demographic website, marketing database, etc.).

  In some embodiments, the media content management application allows the user to indicate whether certain semantic criteria are variables for generating or customizing media content. As shown in FIG. 4, the user can select “NO” for at least one of the semantic criteria 420. Accordingly, these semantic criteria are not considered as variables that generate or customize media content. For example, a media content management application may not be directed to a specific gender (gender neutral or gender unknown) default audio and / or video segment in response to the user selecting “NO” for the gender semantic criteria Can be selected from the database.

  Thus, in response to the user responding to one or more of the semantic criteria 420, the media content management application can integrate the media content that the user previews. In response to selecting preview button 440, the media content management application can display a version of the media content in window 460. Using semantic criteria, the media content management application allows the user to preview and order a completed version of the media content for distribution.

  Media segments can be, for example, graphics (eg, text, images, background fillers, visual objects, visual effects, etc.), video segments, audio segments (eg, synthesized speech, music, background sounds, etc.), animations, etc. Note that this includes These media segments used to integrate one or more versions of media content can be retrieved from a database, but the user or media content management application need not have a database that integrates versions of media content Please note that. The media content management application includes an editing / integrated software package that generates a version of media content with appropriate media segments (eg, audio portion, video portion, background audio, narration, images, animation, graphics, etc.). By using this, avoiding this difficulty, having and / or maintaining a special purpose database (eg, an object oriented database with multiple media segments including media segments not desired by the user), Provide users with media content versions. Media segments related to semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics are used by the editing / integrating software package to generate a version of the media content.

  Note also that media segments and other elements have associated metadata with respect to relative or absolute matching with one or more semantic criteria. For example, in response to price changes, a media content management application or editing / integration software package may place one or more different corresponding video segments one or more and corresponding audio segments one or more placements, audio And video synchronization and background music track changes rules. In another example, each media segment has one or more metadata tags associated with it, and the editing / integration software package responds in response to receiving semantic criteria regarding the corresponding metadata characteristics. A media segment having metadata characteristics can be searched. Semantic criteria include how the media content is sequenced, the primary audio segment and how it is combined with the video segment, the background audio track and how it is combined with the video segment, And so on.

  In addition, the media content management application can integrate multiple versions of media content that the user previews using an editing / integration software package or any other suitable software, each of which is one or more Note that this is based on the user's response to the above semantic criteria 420. The user can preview and select one or more of the media content for distribution and one or more. In another embodiment, the media content management application allows the user to select additional options (eg, option 420) to fine tune one or more versions of the media content.

  Alternatively, in some embodiments, the media content management application can provide the user with various media segments that are selected by the user and that correspond to the semantic criteria to build a customized version of the media content. For example, the media content management application provides the user with various customized media content, each having a different media segment, and the user can select at least one of the customized media content. In another example, the media content management application provides the user with a list or display of media segments, and the user can select one or more of the media segments to incorporate into the resulting customized media content. .

  5 and 6 illustrate an exemplary message template 500 and database content 600 provided by some embodiments of the present invention. The message template 500 illustrates a framework for generating and integrating target viewer media content. The message template can include a sequence 520, such as an insertable sequence (eg, insertable audio and / or video media segment) and / or a predetermined sequence. For example, a predetermined sequence that does not change between different versions of media content can be inserted into the message template 500. Further, the message template 500 can include rules for selecting and combining media segments and other resources for generating media content.

  Note that the message template 500 of the present invention is not limited to orthogonal assembling of media segments. One or more elements of the media content can be controlled and combined using various approaches to form customized media content. For example, a background scene, such as a geographical landscape, is selected from one database and used as a common background throughout the playback of the media content, while an insertable video segment is added to the media content at a location. Added.

  The design of the message template can be determined using information from the campaign, information from a default message (eg, uncustomized media content), etc.

  In response to instructions from the user, the media content management application can generate media content for a particular market, company or individual. For example, a media content management application uses an editing / integration software package to obtain specific media segments and / or media information from one or more databases and integrate media content to be distributed to viewers. be able to. A database accessed by a media content management application or editing / integrated software package may include advertising information, audio segments, video segments, sequences, any other suitable media segment, and any other used to generate media content. Note that any suitable storage device for storing suitable information may be used. The database may be a specialized media database accessed by a media content management application or editing / integrated software package. The database can be untethered to media content management applications, editing / integrated software packages, cable operators, headends, network providers, and / or any other suitable entity.

  These sequences and media segments are also high capacity, high speed servers capable of delivering these sequences and media segments in “real time” or “near real time” to create and integrate the sequences and media segments on the fly, Note also that it can be stored in a database, or any other suitable storage device.

  Editing / integrating software packages and features for generating customized messages based on user information are described in, for example, US patent applications filed April 7, 2000, assigned to the same assignee as the present application. 09 / 545,524, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may use or attach semantic criteria and / or metadata characteristics to fine tune or customize the media content version.

  Referring to FIG. 7, in response to a user previewing the assembled version of media content, the media content management application provides the user with a planning screen 700 provided by some embodiments of the present invention. As shown, in the interface 340, the “plan” button is currently selected.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application previews a version of the media content based on selected options, edits and / or customizes the media content, and gives the user an opportunity to approve the media content to be produced. Can be given to. In some embodiments, the media content management application dynamically calculates product and delivery costs for approved media content. The media content management application can provide an alternative to the user and / or optimize the version of the media content based on cost. For example, one version of the media content provides a video clip using an actor, while another version of the media content provides a video clip using a cartoon character. Each version of the media content is associated with a different cost (eg, for the cost of hiring an actor, or for a contract with a movie actor union for the filming actor associated with the video clip).

  As shown in FIG. 7, the media content management application provides parameters 720 and 725 to the user. Parameters 720 and 725 allow the user to further customize the media content version based on additional semantic criteria. Based on parameters selected by the user or media content management application, some additional semantic criteria can be given to the user to customize the media content version. For example, in FIG. 5, parameters “Media Plan” and “Zone Data” are provided. “Zone data” may relate to demographic values for an area to which media content is to be transmitted. Thus, the parameter “zone data” can provide the user with demographic options such as gender options, income options, ethnicity options, and the like.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application allows the user to import parameters (eg, parameters 730 and 735) from other sources. For example, the user can import a “zone data” parameter 735 from another campaign. In another example, importing the “zone data” parameter 735 includes retrieving demographic information from different sources (eg, US Census Bureau website, market demographic website, marketing database, etc.). .

  As shown in FIG. 7, the media content management application provides the user with a list of each provider's programs 740 (eg, broadcast programs, cable zones, cable programs, etc.). In response to selecting a provider or program type, the media content management application may display a list of programs 740. Each listed program 750 may include program information, eg, channel name, airtime, program title, program type, and / or any other suitable information. The user can select a customized version of the media content, for example, by selecting check box 765 and associate it with program 750. Once the media content is approved, the media content is assembled, produced, and distributed to the appropriate entities for playback during the selected program 750.

  For each selected program for distributing media content, the media content management application dynamically calculates the associated cost and displays the associated cost on the cost interface 770. The cost may be an estimate for generating one or more media content and delivering the media content to the appropriate entity. The cost includes, for example, media cost, production cost, distribution cost, and the like. The cost provided to the cost interface 770 allows the user to optimize the cost of the media content version using the media content management application. For example, the media content management application provides the user with an opportunity to optimize the cost of the media content version without knowledge of the different costs associated with generating and distributing the media content version (e.g., user Does not need to know the cost of providing a version of media content to MPEG-2 or MPEG-4, and the user needs to know about the terms of the contract with the film actors union, or the top priority compensation contract with a particular talent In addition, the user does not need to know about the production implications for generating a version of the media content, etc.).

  In some embodiments, the media content management application further informs the user of the media content version for a particular program using one or more semantic criteria (eg, in the form of questions or options). Allows customization. Using the response to the semantic criteria, the media content management application gives the user additional semantic editing control. For example, the media content management application may give the user one or more abstract questions about information about gender, wealth, ethnicity, geography, advertising style, discount format, etc. Based on the response to each question, the media content management application sends the semantic criteria to the editing / integrated software package, the editing / integrating system, or a user of these editing / integrated software package or editing / integrating system, and the media content. One or more versions can be further tailored and / or built for the user. By selecting one of the preview buttons 760 of FIG. 7, the media content management application is an exemplary approval screen according to some embodiments of the present invention, 800 of FIG. 8, 900 of FIG. 9, and FIG. Can be given to the user.

  As shown in screens 800, 900, and 1000, the media content management application may add additional semantic criteria (eg, options and information regarding the statistics shown in FIGS. 8-10, population, etc.) to adjust the media content version. Statistical information, etc.) can be provided to the user. For example, in the approval screen 800 of FIG. 8, a “broadcast program” category 810 and semantic criteria 820 regarding gender, income, and ethnicity are given to the user. As shown, the media content management application can provide the user with additional semantic criteria. For example, the media content management application informs the user that a Caucasian man whose income is less than $ 70,000 is the intended viewer of the media content. The media content management application may obtain demographic information for determining how the user should further customize the media content version. In another example, the media content management application may select based on demographic information by default. If the media content management application determines that the region where the user is providing media content is primarily Caucasian males (eg, 61% male and 81% Caucasian as shown in FIG. 8), these options Can be automatically defaulted.

  Using screens 800, 900, 1000, or any other suitable interface, the media content management application allows the user to manage the editing of media content based on semantic criteria and to determine the media content (or media content version). ) Can be made. Semantic criteria include, for example, options related to advertising style, options related to events, options related to vehicle types, options related to vehicle models, options related to discounts, options related to the target audience's gender (eg, male or female), target viewing Options related to the wealth of consumers (eg, income of $ 70,000 or more), options related to the target audience's ethnicity (eg, Caucasian, African American, Spanish, Asian, etc.), the geography of the target audience Options for (e.g., Tohoku, South, Europe, Asia, etc.) can be included. Any other suitable criteria may also be provided. For example, criteria for target audience likes and dislikes (eg, viewers like sports-related commercials, viewers like advertisements with dogs, etc.) may be provided.

  Again, professional editing / integration software (eg, editing software developed by Avid Technology Inc., “Final Cut Pro” developed by Apple Computer Inc., IntelliSpot developed by Visible World, Inc. Or other integrated software, etc.) the user is familiar with the editing toolset of the software package and details of the media content, eg editing points, sequences of media segments, how audio segments are combined into video segments How background audio tracks are combined into video segments, which media segments are customized and / or exchanged, and any media content related Suitable details will entail familiar with. In addition, professional editing / integration software allows the user to know the database structure called by the editing / integration software, or what metadata to audio segments, video segments, or any other suitable media segment. You need to know what has been combined. Note that media content management applications avoid this difficulty because the user is given an abstraction in the form of semantic controls or semantic criteria. Depending on the semantic criteria, the semantic criteria are translated into functions performed by one of these professional editing / integrated software packages. In response to providing semantic criteria, the media content management application may use one or more of these professional editing / integrating software packages or to another user with knowledge of these editing / integrating software packages. Information can be sent to generate and / or adjust one or more versions of media content corresponding to the metadata characteristics. Thus, users of media content management applications do not need to have knowledge of professional editing / integrated software packages or how to integrate media content (eg, advertisements). In addition, users of media content management applications have knowledge of the structure of the database accessed by professional editing / integrated software packages, or knowledge of how and what metadata is associated with media segments stored in the database. There is no need.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application uses such semantic criteria to determine that the user has properly targeted the media content. For example, the media content management application determines that the media content is most suitable for a Caucasian male with a revenue level of less than $ 70,000. In response, the media content management application can evaluate this information along with other semantic criteria selected by the user to customize the version of the media content.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application can use such information to automatically modify options selected by the user. For example, based on demographic information, or any other suitable target or marketing information, the media content management application may adjust the options selected by the user to improve targeting to the intended audience. Can do.

  Returning to FIG. 8, in response to the user responding to one or more of the additional semantic criteria, the media content management application uses the additional semantic criteria 820 to determine the version of the media content that the user previews. Tune and customize. Using a button or interface, such as preview button 830, the user can preview a customized version of the media content in preview window 840. To approve the customized version of the media content, the media content management application provides an approval button 850 to the user.

  Note that the additional semantic criteria 820, 920, and 1020 in FIGS. 8-10 can be any suitable criteria. In some embodiments, the semantic criteria 820 for broadcast programs may be different from the semantic criteria 920 for cable zones. Any semantic criteria suitable for customizing the media content version can be provided by the media content management application.

  In response to approval of one or more versions of media content, the media content management application provides the user with an order screen as shown in FIGS.

  Referring to FIG. 11, the media content management application can dynamically calculate production costs for generating one or more versions of media content. Production costs can be based on, for example, media segments used for media content versions, time required to integrate and create media content, and the like. As shown in FIG. 11, the media content management application provides the user with estimates for the production of these customized versions of the media content, and the estimates are customized for the media content without using the media content management application. Compared to an estimated versioning cost (eg, hiring an advertising agency to produce multiple versions of media content). These production cost estimates are displayed on the interface 1120.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may provide the user with an opportunity to cost-optimize the media content version. Using the order screens shown in FIGS. 11-14, the media content management application can attach other metadata to the version of the media content. For example, the order screen can provide the user with multiple versions of the media content and provide the user with metadata associated with each version. One version of the media content can inform the user that a particular actor plays a scene in the media content. This version has associated costs for hiring the actor (eg contract terms with a movie actor union, or a top priority compensation agreement with a particular talent) and other costs associated with that particular actor . Note that the media content management application gives the user an estimate of these costs without the user having to be familiar with these contracts and related costs. Furthermore, the media content management application may allow the user to select a version of the media content based on its associated costs. In response, the media content management application can send cost information, semantic criteria and / or associated metadata to the editing / integrating software package to integrate the versions of the media content.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application can show production costs by item so that the user is given an estimate for producing each version of the media content, and the media content management application In addition, it may be possible to select one or more of the costs indicated by item. These selected costs are sent to the editing / integration software package, where the selected costs can be translated and used to integrate the versions of the media content. For example, in response to a user approving a cost estimate for a performer that is filming, the editing / integrated software package interprets the approved cost estimate and includes a media segment (e.g., filming that has the performer being filmed). Video clips containing the performers in), and integrate media content versions.

  As shown in FIG. 12, the media content management application may generate an estimate of talent costs associated with generating one or more versions of media content. Talent costs may include costs associated with hiring performers who are filming, performers who are not filming, extras, narrators, musicians, and the like. These talent costs may be based on, for example, contract terms with movie actor associations or contracts with specific talents. These talent costs are displayed on the interface 1210.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may provide the user with an opportunity to select and / or optimize a delivery option for sending the media content version. That is, the media content management application selects the media for the media content version, one or more delivery points for the media content version, etc. without having to recognize the costs associated with delivering the media content version. It is possible to do.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the media content management application may allow a user to select a delivery option. The media content management application may allow the user to select from one or more distribution points. These distribution points include, for example, specific markets (eg, Northeast, Atlanta, Chicago, etc.), broadcasters and affiliates (eg, KCNC (CBS) Denver, WABC (ABC) for distributing media content New York, etc.), companies, cable interconnections, personal types (eg, via mailing lists), or actual individuals.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application recommends which distribution points should receive the media content version. For example, the media content management application may provide a list of distribution points having demographic information corresponding to the target information selected for the media content. In another example, the media content management application may generate an optimized list of distribution points using previously entered semantic criteria.

  In some embodiments, the media content management application can generate a list of distribution points using previously entered semantic criteria (each distribution point has associated metadata), where: The metadata from the listed distribution points is one that matches the metadata characteristics associated with the previously entered semantic criteria. For example, the media content management application can extract metadata characteristics from previously entered semantic criteria. Metadata properties are used by media content management applications and can be used to screen a list of available distribution points (eg, all distribution points in WABC New York or New York are more than 50% male And most households earn more than $ 100,000).

  In addition to selecting a distribution point, the media content management application may allow a user to select a format in which the media content should be distributed to the distribution point. These formats include, for example, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, video tape (VHS), DVD, standard resolution media (DV, DVCPRO, DVCAM, uncompressed SD, etc.), high resolution media (eg, HDV, XDCAM HD). , DVCPRO HD, uncompressed HD, etc.), other media formats, other media resolutions, and so on. For example, broadcaster KCNC (CBS) Denver can receive media content in the form of videotape, while broadcaster WABC (ABC) New York can download media content from a server or database. In another example, broadcaster KCNC (CBS) Denver can receive media content versions at standard resolution, while broadcaster WABC (ABC) New York can receive media content versions at high resolution and standard resolution. .

  In some embodiments, the media content management application may optimize user selections. For example, the media content management application may determine media format preferences, requests, and other information regarding the broadcast station that the user has selected to receive the media content version. The media content management application may determine that WABC (ABC) New York requests that the media content version be received in both standard resolution and high resolution. The media content management application can also determine that WABC (ABC) New York prefers to provide media content versions in MPEG-2 format. The media content management application also determines that WABC (ABC) New York requests that a video tape of media content be sent to a specific destination. In response to these determinations, the media content management application can pre-select a selection (eg, standard resolution and video tape only) that the user can use for a particular distribution point. Alternatively, the media content management application may prohibit the user from selecting an option that is not within the delivery point requirements (e.g., the user may only accept high resolution media content at a particular delivery point). Standard resolution cannot be selected).

  Thus, the media content management application provides the user with a number of options for distributing a version of the media content with the user having to know about the requirements and / or preferences of a particular distribution point.

  When the media content and distribution point are selected by the user, the media content management application provides a confirmation screen 1200 to the user. This confirmation screen allows the user to create a campaign plan, customized options, delivery specifications, and Other information can be requested to be reviewed (confirmation area 1410). The user also has a total cost estimate area 1420 that displays an estimate of media costs, production costs, distribution costs, and total costs associated with assembling, producing, and distributing customized versions of the media content. Can be given. When the “Process Order” button is selected, an order is issued.

  The media content management application provides the user with the ability to generate or select from various media content ready to be delivered to the intended viewer. .

  As mentioned above, the media content management application of the present invention can allow users to generate, customize and / or distribute media content using semantic criteria. One skilled in the art will know how to use standard algorithms to implement the process of the present invention based on the information given in this application.

  It should be understood that the invention is not limited to the details of construction or the arrangement of components set forth herein or illustrated in the drawings. Other embodiments are contemplated and can be implemented in various ways. Also, it should be understood that the expressions and terms used herein are for the purpose of explanation and are not limited thereto.

  It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the concepts underlying the present disclosure can be readily utilized as a basis for designing other structures, methods, and systems for achieving the various objectives of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that such equivalent constructions be regarded as included in the scope of the claims without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

  Although the present invention has been described with reference to embodiments thereof, the present disclosure has been made by way of example only and numerous changes may be made in the details of implementation of the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Please understand that you can.

Claims (46)

A method of preparing media content for an intended audience,
Providing a user with semantic criteria for the media content;
Responsive to receiving an instruction from the user about the selected semantic criteria, sending the selected semantic criteria to an integrated software package;
Using the integrated software package to integrate at least one version of media content according to selected semantic criteria dictated by the user;
With a method.   The method of claim 1, further comprising constructing a media content template including a video segment slot and an audio segment slot using the selected semantic criteria. Using the selected semantic criteria to further retrieve a media segment including a video segment and an audio segment from a database for insertion into a message template;
The method of claim 2, wherein a number of video segments can be selected for insertion into one of the video segment slots and a number of audio segments can be selected for insertion into one of the audio segment slots. The method described.   The method of claim 1, further comprising providing additional semantic criteria to the user to adjust at least one version of the media content.   The method of claim 1, further comprising sending at least one version of the media content to a distribution point. Sending the first version of the media content to a first distribution point, and sending the second version of the media content to a second delivery point;
The method of claim 1, wherein the first version and the second version of the media content are different.   The method of claim 1, further comprising optimizing the cost of at least one version of the media content. Further comprising attaching a semantic criterion to at least one version of the media content;
The method of claim 1, wherein the attached semantic criteria enables the user to manage the cost of at least one version of the media content. A method of providing media content for an intended audience,
Providing a user with multiple versions of the media content, each version having a semantic criteria attached thereto;
Providing a user with a cost associated with each version of the media content based on the attached semantic criteria;
Receiving a selection from a user that is one of a plurality of versions of the media content;
Integrating a selected version of the media content using an integrated software package;
With a method.   The attached semantic criteria include the terms of the contract with the film actor union, the compensation agreement with the talent, the cost of the media for the media content, the cost of the actors, the number of weeks required to integrate the media content versions, One or more of the cost of performers, non-shooting performers, extra costs, narrator costs, musician costs, music costs, distribution costs, production implications, talent implications, and distribution implications The method of claim 9, wherein:   The method of claim 9, further comprising: recommending one of a plurality of versions of the media content to the user using the attached semantic criteria. A method of providing media content for an intended audience,
Providing a user with semantic criteria for the media content;
Responsive to receiving an instruction from the user about the selected semantic criteria, sending the selected semantic criteria to an integrated software package;
Using the integrated software package to integrate at least one version of media content according to selected semantic criteria dictated by the user;
Providing the user with a plurality of delivery options including a delivery format determined using the selected semantic criteria;
With a method.   The distribution format is one of video tape, DVD, CD, high resolution format, standard resolution format, MPEG-2 format, MPEG-4 format, media format, and media resolution. The method described.   The method of claim 12, further comprising recommending the delivery format to a user using the semantic criteria.   The method of claim 12, further comprising using the semantic criteria to screen a user for at least one delivery format from a plurality of delivery formats. A method of providing media content for an intended audience,
Providing a user with semantic criteria for the media content;
Responsive to receiving an instruction from the user about the selected semantic criteria, sending the selected semantic criteria to an integrated software package;
Using the integrated software package to integrate at least one version of media content according to the selected semantic criteria dictated by the user;
Allowing the user to select at least one delivery format from a plurality of delivery formats for at least one version of the media content;
With a method.   The distribution format is one of video tape, DVD, CD, high resolution format, standard resolution format, MPEG-2 format, MPEG-4 format, media format, and media resolution. The method described.   The method of claim 16, further comprising recommending the delivery format to the user using the semantic criteria.   The method of claim 16, further comprising: using the semantic criteria to screen the user for at least one delivery format from a plurality of delivery formats. A method of providing media content for an intended audience,
Providing a user with semantic criteria for the media content;
Responsive to receiving an instruction from the user about the selected semantic criteria, sending the selected semantic criteria to an integrated software package;
Using the integrated software package to integrate at least one version of media content according to selected semantic criteria dictated by the user;
Allowing the user to select at least one distribution point from a plurality of distribution points for at least one version of the media content;
With a method.   The method of claim 20, wherein the at least one distribution point is one of a specific market, a broadcast station, an affiliated station, a company, a cable interconnect, a headend, a cable television operator, and an individual. .   The method of claim 20, further comprising recommending the at least one delivery point to the user using the semantic criteria.   The method of claim 20, further comprising the step of screening the at least one delivery point from the plurality of delivery points using the semantic criteria. A system for providing media content for an intended audience,
Giving the user a semantic standard for the media content,
In response to receiving an instruction from the user about the selected semantic criteria, sending the selected semantic criteria to the integrated software package;
A processor that at least partially executes a media content management application configured to use the integrated software package to integrate at least one version of media content in accordance with selected semantic criteria dictated by the user; System with.   The media content management application is further configured to construct a media content template including a video segment slot and an audio segment slot using the selected semantic criteria. system. The media content management application is further configured to retrieve a media segment including a video segment and an audio segment from a database for insertion into a message template using the selected semantic criteria;
A number of video segments can be selected for insertion into one of the video segment slots and a number of audio segments can be selected for insertion into one of the audio segment slots. The system according to 25.   The system of claim 24, wherein the media content management application is further configured to provide the user with additional semantic criteria for adjusting at least one version of the media content.   The system of claim 24, wherein the media content management application is further configured to send at least one version of the media content to a distribution point.   The media content management application is further configured to send a first version of the media content to a first delivery point and send a second version of the media content to a second delivery point, the first of the media content The system of claim 24, wherein the version and the second version are different.   The system of claim 24, wherein the media content management application is further configured to optimize the cost of at least one version of the media content.   The media content management application is further configured to attach semantic criteria to at least one version of the media content, the attached semantic criteria managing a cost of at least one version of the media content to a user. 25. The system of claim 24, wherein: A system for providing media content for an intended audience,
Giving the user multiple versions of the media content, each version having a semantic criteria attached thereto,
Giving the user a cost associated with each version of the media content based on the attached semantic criteria,
Receiving a selection from a user that is one of a plurality of versions of the media content;
A system comprising a processor that at least partially executes a media content management application configured to integrate selected versions of the media content using an integrated software package.   The attached semantic criteria include the terms of the contract with the film actor union, the compensation agreement with the talent, the cost of the media for the media content, the cost of the actors, the number of weeks required to integrate the media content versions, One or more of the cost of performers, non-shooting performers, extra costs, narrator costs, musician costs, music costs, distribution costs, production implications, talent implications, and distribution implications 33. The system of claim 32, wherein:   The media content management application is further configured to recommend one of a plurality of versions of the media content to the user using the attached semantic criteria. The system described in. A system for providing media content for an intended audience,
Giving the user a semantic standard for the media content,
In response to receiving an instruction from the user about the selected semantic criteria, sending the selected semantic criteria to the integrated software package;
Using the integrated software package to assemble at least one version of media content according to selected semantic criteria as directed by the user;
A system comprising a processor that at least partially executes a media content management application configured to provide a user with a plurality of delivery options including a delivery format determined using the selected semantic criteria.   The distribution format is one of video tape, DVD, CD, high resolution format, standard resolution format, MPEG-2 format, MPEG-4 format, media format, and media resolution. The described system.   36. The system of claim 35, wherein the media content management application is further configured to recommend the delivery format to the user using the semantic criteria.   36. The media content management application is further configured to screen at least one delivery format from a plurality of delivery formats for the user using the semantic criteria. System. A system for providing media content for an intended audience,
Giving the user a semantic standard for the media content,
In response to receiving an instruction from the user about the selected semantic criteria, sending the selected semantic criteria to the integrated software package;
Using the integrated software package to assemble at least one version of media content according to selected semantic criteria as directed by the user;
A processor that at least partially executes a media content management application configured to allow a user to select at least one distribution format from a plurality of distribution formats for at least one version of the media content. With system.   The distribution format is one of video tape, DVD, CD, high resolution format, standard resolution format, MPEG-2 format, MPEG-4 format, media format, and media resolution. The described system.   40. The system of claim 39, wherein the media content management application is further configured to recommend the delivery format to the user using the semantic criteria.   40. The media content management application is further configured to screen the user for at least one delivery format from a plurality of delivery formats using the semantic criteria. System. A system for providing media content for an intended audience,
Giving the user a semantic standard for the media content,
In response to receiving an instruction from the user about the selected semantic criteria, sending the selected semantic criteria to the integrated software package;
Using the integrated software package to assemble at least one version of media content according to selected semantic criteria as directed by the user;
A processor that at least partially executes a media content management application configured to allow a user to select at least one distribution point from a plurality of distribution points for at least one version of the media content. With system.   44. The method of claim 43, wherein the at least one distribution point is one of a specific market, a broadcast station, an affiliated station, a company, a cable interconnect, a headend, a cable television operator, and an individual. system.   44. The system of claim 43, wherein the media content management application is further configured to recommend the at least one delivery point to the user using the semantic criteria.   44. The system of claim 43, wherein the media content management application is further configured to screen the at least one delivery point from the plurality of delivery points using the semantic criteria.

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