Mar 19, 2024
Merapar has recently achieved a significant milestone in the cloud technology domain – obtaining the AWS Media & Entertainment Services Competency. This accomplishment is a confirmation of our technical expertise and deep understanding of the media and entertainment industry’s needs. It marks a crucial step in our commitment to providing top-tier cloud solutions. Working with Merapar will significantly transform your media workflows. Our expertise in leveraging AWS services has led to a noticeable improvement in the operational efficiency of many leading media companies including PBS, NBCU and Comcast Sky
In an insightful interview, we speak with Richard Cross, our business development director, who will shed light on the importance of this achievement. Together, we explore the added value this certification brings to our clients and the industry, delving into the challenges, strategies, and implications of this notable success.
To start, can you explain the significance of the AWS Media & Entertainment Services Competency for Merapar?
Absolutely. Achieving this competency is a significant milestone. It's not just a recognition of our technical expertise in media workflows and cloud solutions, but it solidifies our position as a trusted, high-quality service provider in the media industry. It demonstrates our deep understanding of the unique challenges and needs in this sector. This competency underlines our expertise in areas such as content recommendations, playback and other D2C workflows. We’ve also developed unique solutions for the deployment and enhancement of AWS Personalize demonstrating our ability to not just meet but exceed industry standards. (e.g. see our offering on AWS Marketplace)
How does this certification provide tangible benefits to your clients in the Media & Entertainment industry?
For our clients, this certification assures them of our proficiency in managing complex media workflows and delivering scalable, consistent cloud solutions. It's a guarantee of quality and reliability. For potential clients, it serves as a benchmark of excellence and trust, assuring them that partnering with us means working with a company that meets the stringent standards set by AWS. Our clients benefit from our agile methodologies and proven sector experience. This approach distinguishes us in the marketplace and directly translates to enhanced performance and efficiency for our clients.
Can you elaborate on the specific advantages that Merapar’s clients gain from this achievement?
Of course. Clients gain access to a team that's been audited and verified by AWS for their technical expertise and governance. This means they benefit from cutting-edge solutions, seamless implementations, and a partnership that's always aligned with the latest industry standards and innovations. It’s about providing not just solutions, but value and strategic advantage in their market. Our client-centric approach, combined with our deep domain expertise, enables us to tailor solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also perfectly aligned with our clients’ specific needs and goals. We aim to help our customers achieve positive metrics including cost reductions, improved operational resilience as well as increases in business agility and productivity.
What was the preparation process like for Merapar to achieve this certification?
The preparation was rigorous. It involved compiling extensive documentation, preparing detailed use cases, and working closely with our customers to reflect our capabilities accurately. This process required an in-depth analysis of our internal processes and customer interactions, ensuring that every aspect of our operation aligned with AWS's high standards.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the competency acquisition process?
One major challenge was ensuring that our entire company structure supported the high-level work we do for our clients. This meant a thorough assessment and often enhancement of our operational and organisational processes. The audit, in particular, was a demanding phase but was instrumental in highlighting areas for improvement. It lasted over five hours and was an intense but fair assessment of our capabilities. The positive feedback we received from the auditor is a source of great pride and motivation for us. There were recommendations as to how we could improve certain aspects of our processes but overall we were delighted to receive a very positive report and recognition from the auditor and ultimately from AWS itself.
Reflecting on the journey, what key lessons did you learn that could benefit other organizations seeking similar competencies?
One key lesson is the critical importance of teamwork and internal alignment. Every department needs to be in sync. Also, continuous learning and adaptation are vital. The industry is always evolving, and staying ahead means being proactive in learning and applying new technologies and methodologies. Merapar is uniquely positioned having our own Agile Centre of Excellence and we provide training and coaching to other organisations and customers as well as within our own teams.
Finally, what’s next for Merapar following this achievement?
Looking ahead, we’re focused on leveraging this competency to further innovate and elevate our services. We're committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of cloud solutions in the media and entertainment sector. Our goal is always to bring value and advanced capabilities to our customers, helping them succeed in their digital transformation journey. Furthermore, we are leading the way in innovation by developing pioneering technologies and services, such as advanced AI-driven content personalization and cloud-based collaborative platforms. Those are really making an impact in the industry.
Merapar is set to expand its collaborative efforts with industry leaders AWS. These initiatives are part of our commitment to staying at the forefront of cloud and technological advancements in the media and entertainment sector and ensuring that Merapar is the “go to” partner for operators, broadcasters and content owners looking to maintain and enhance their competitive advantage.
Meet Merapar at our upcoming events...the next one being NAB
We invite you to experience firsthand the innovative solutions Merapar offers. Join us at NAB Show 2024, where we're happy to be a part of the AWS Partner Village (West Hall). This is your opportunity to engage directly with our experts, who will be there to discuss our latest advancements, answer your questions, and explore how our solutions can be tailored to meet your unique needs.
