The organisation is now providing scheduling information and EPG metadata to the PCCW, Sky UK, Freesat, Yes, OSN, and DSmart platforms via its scheduling software Pawa. In addition, EBS is sending an EPG feed to satellite operator SES, in what is a first for the service. SES is uplinking the EPG data via an event information table (EIT) stream direct to its satellite, which is then distributed across Europe to viewers’ set-top boxes.

“The fight for viewers is getting tough,” said Keith Bedford, managing director, EBS. “There’s so many options, so much content choice. In this kind of market, presentation must be perfect. With Pawa’s robust functionality and bespoke capabilities, JIB can be confident that their European operations with NHK World TV are in safe hands.”

Yoshihiko Shimizu, CEO, Japan International Broadcasting Inc, said: “Elegant delivery of EPG information is a key element to improving our channel awareness around the world. We are delighted to work with EBS in providing this critical service.”

Pawa provides a one-stop database for organizing and distributing schedules and metadata, but can also provide separate libraries for each channel a broadcaster operates. Data can thus always fit a channel identity, and allows operators to manage tailored workflows for both linear and non-linear services. It also allows for video-on-demand (VOD) attributes, image enhancements and alterations, and translation services to be generated within a centralised database.

The deal with Japan International Broadcasting shows, said EBS, that Pawa can be used to meet any workflow requirements.