Section
Three: Selecting a Client/Server System
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Digital audio
and video exist today in a state of paradox: demand for digital files
in audiovisual formats is great; mature standards supporting digital
video and audio on optical media (CD, CD-ROM and DVD) and broadcast
systems (satellite, TV, HDTV) are widely available. Systems to support
digital video, however, while offering exciting functionalities and
tremendous potential, are still emerging rather than proven, particularly
in critical areas of interoperability and adherence to open standards.
It is possible to select the right system for your needs, among many
good, fairly solid offerings, but more care must be taken than in
the selection of client/server systems to support electronic text.
In early 1999, selecting the right digital video client/server system
to grow with your developing needs is still a risky venture, requiring
careful planning and needs assessment.
