MEF goes to NATPE

MEF recently returned from NATPE (National Association of Television Program Executives) annual conference, which is normally a whirlwind of TV programmers, producers, sales execs and new media mavens.

With the weak economic climate – and the tendency for most of the suits to be tucked away in suites – it was a quiet Show Floor. MEF Americas did its part to liven things up when Jim Beddows, Board Chairman, was on the Mobile and Viral Video panel. The panel was on the show floor, hosted by always gracious and amusing Frank Chindamo, and included the Fine Brothers (Benny and Rafi) who showcased their popular satire web videos. By the end of the session there were dozens of railbirds that came over to enjoy the panel – all the seating had already filled up. It was the only full room MEF saw all day.

In his comments, Jim reported several findings about mobile video - here’s a 6-minute clip of Jim, followed by the Fine Brothers intro and spoof video:



NATPE once had an entire conference day dedicated to mobile – with a separate admission — and this year the mobile entertainment content was placed into their regular programming. MEF consider this a sign of the mainstreaming of mobile video into all discussions related to TV production, distribution and marketing.

Next from here is the Mobile Video Initiative, and the directive MEF received from our in-person meetings was that Content Reporting is a primary issue, along with Business Models, User Experience, and Standards. Those are the four main components to the Mobile Video project plan that will be reported on in the coming months.

Next up for MEF on Mobile Video is the NAB Show (also in Las Vegas) – mark your calendar for April 20-23. MEF met with our NAB contact and she was pleased to report that delegate registrations are UP from the same period a year ago. Please contact Mike Navarra for the opportunity to be in the MEF-hosted Mobile Video Pavilion on the NAB show floor. It’s in a great spot and for a fixed-fee you’ll have a turnkey exhibit opportunity at America’s biggest trade show for Film and Broadcast.