Objectives
Move Networks provide comprehensive solutions for delivering video over IP on a global scale.  Their solutions include both online PC based services and more conventional IPTV to a television via a set-top-box (STB). Move have developed an innovative rate-adaptive bit-rate technology that allows it to deliver a quality TV service over networks where bandwidth is limited - as well as operating over multicast networks at the high quality levels expected of traditional television.

Move uses this technology to deliver a revolutionary IPTV service, Freewire, to students in the UK over the specialist broadband network operated by universities around the country.

Move approached 3Vision to assist with all aspects of the content offering for its IPTV launch from strategy development and business modelling through to content acquisition and marketing.

3Vision Approach
3Vision initially focused on developing a comprehensive content strategy for Freewire. This process included:

• Investigating availability of content – initially many channels were reluctant to offer their channels to the PC “virtual-STB” platform or had genuine rights clearance problems
• Developing a strong content proposition targeted to the very specific demographics of the student market

Once the proposition was agreed, 3Vision led the implementation phase of the project by negotiating content deals with all the required providers. This work included all commercial and contractual negotiations, with Move effectively outsourcing this area of their business so that they could focus on the operational priorities of launch preparation.

Results
The Freewire IPTV service launched successfully with TV channels from leading providers such as Viacom (MTV, Comedy Central), Channel Four, Discovery, NBC Universal (Sci-Fi), Fox (FX) and leading international channel providers to address the international student community (e.g. PCNE, SET, Zee, Al Jazeera, TV5).

The service continues to roll-out to universities throughout the UK, with awareness and usage growing rapidly across the student base.

3Vision provides ongoing support to Move Networks with its IPTV service -negotiating additional content deals in preparation for its VOD launch and expansion into new territories and markets.

“3Vision have given us excellent support in helping us launch our PC client service – a service that at the time of launch was very unique compared to traditional TV platforms. Their ability to conclude what could have been complex channel deals was more than impressive. 3Vision also provided excellent ongoing strategy support that has helped us develop a very successful TV service.” Nick Ruczaj, VP Sales, EMEA, Move Networks

Note: Move Networks acquired Inuk Networks in April 2009

September 2009