What are the processes involved in live broadcasting?

Answer 1

Every live broadcast begins with a contract signed by the sponsor/client. After all, broadcasting IS a business. Without the money up front, nothing much happens. The main process involved in a live broadcast is getting the equipment set up and the talent on their marks. Equipment is deployed as required. This can be as involved as a multi-set comedy show, operatic production, or sports event. Or, it can be as simple as a fellow or gal with a microphone standing on an empty set, or a street corner. Usually there is a printed program format or schedule of some sort so all the production staff can be on the same page at the same time; everyone knows what's coming next and there are no undesirable "surprises." Development of the format/program/schedule is a multi-step process all its own. Another important process is producing the script. Without a script, the talent has nothing to say. Script production is yet ANOTHER multi-step process. If the broadcast is a live remote, another important process is back-hauling the signal, or getting the remote signal back to the place where it can be broadcast; either a local station or a network hub. Sometimes this involves the use of installed telephone lines rented for the purpose. Sometimes it involves the use of auxiliary radio equipment. Sometimes it involves satellite links, frequently installed in a mobile equipment truck. If the broadcast takes place at a local station, the signal(s) go from the studio, to the controlroom to the transmitter. If the production occurs at a network hub, the signal goes to the control board and then out to the network feed/satellite uplink. During the broadcast, the production staff monitors equipment and talent performance, making necessary adjustments as the program progresses. (For elaborate productions, there is a stage crew for moving stage sets, as well as costuming and makeup teams to prepare the talent.) After the production is finished, equipment is struck, the studio or production site is returned to its pre-show condition. Station or network representatives discuss the program with the sponsor/client to get their feedback and see if they want to do it again and when. Frequently, production staff members then go to a local restaurant (usually Pizza) to decompress and debrief. It's a very satisfying feeling when everything goes as planned and the sponsor/client is happy.