FIAT/IFTA WORLD CONFERENCE
15-18 OCTOBER
BUCHAREST 2024
Don’t Believe Me, Just Watch!
Register for the conference below!
Don’t Believe Me, Just Watch!
Welcome to the upcoming conference, ‘Don’t Believe Me, Just Watch!’, set to take place in Bucharest this October 2024. As we anticipate the approach of this engaging event, we delve into a multitude of questions encompassing the ever-evolving landscape of media preservation, acquisition, and archiving. Are we truly prepared for the challenges that lie ahead, or are we merely spectators in a rapidly changing arena? How do we navigate the intersection of ethics, technology, and skill sets in this digital age?
Our conference will bring together media managers, archivists, researchers, developers, strategists, as well as service and technology providers, fostering a collaborative environment for the exchange of well-informed opinions. Through presentations, keynotes, workshops, and discussion sessions, participants will confront pressing issues facing the archive industry today.
Located in the vibrant city of Bucharest, our discussions will span diverse topics, such as the challenges and opportunities in media preservation, the ethical considerations surrounding technological transformations, and the strategic choices for archive management teams. Migration, collaboration, AI integration, ecological responsibility, and access to archives are just a few of the subjects that will be explored in depth.
Join us as we delve into the intricacies of media archives, embracing the challenges, uncertainties, and opportunities that await. Your participation and insights are highly valued as we work together to uncover the stories influencing our media views and strategic decisions for the future.
HOST
GENERAL ASSEMBLY
FIAT/IFTA GENERAL ASSEMBLY
The General Assembly is the highest governing body in the Federation. It is composed of Full, Associate, Supporting and Honorary members. All members are invited to join this meeting, although only Full Members can vote, with one vote per Full Member.
AGENDA
STAND FOR ELECTION
Employees of Full Members who wish to stand for election, either as an Executive Council member or as President, should fill out the appropriate form. This form will remain open until 11:30 AM (GMT+3) Wednesday, October 16th. 24h before the 2024 General Assembly on Wednesday, October 17th.
VOTE BY PROXY
Full Members absent from the General Assembly may hand over their right to vote to another Full Member (vote by proxy). Full members can only vote by proxy for one other Full Member at maximum. This form will remain open until 11:30 AM (GMT+3) Wednesday, October 16th. 24h before the 2024 General Assembly on Wednesday, October 17th.
CONFERENCE SPONSORS
For more information, click on the sponsor’s logo.
GOLD SPONSORS
The Ark
Tape Digitisation: We provide a comprehensive tape digitisation service. Older tape formats are susceptible to deterioration over time, making it increasingly challenging to restore and maintain the original content quality. Formats include:
VHS | Digi Betacam | Betacam/SP |
1’’C | U-matic | Hi-8 | DVCPRO | HDCAM/SR
Film Scanning: Preserve the historical and visual quality of your film content, while transforming it into a digital format suitable for modern distribution and future preservation. We can handle complex or deeply damaged film and preserve the quality of the original. Formats include: 8mm | 16mm | 35mm
Restoration of Materials: Restore your scanned material using a selection of the best software options in the industry. Our skilled operators can remove dirt, de-grain, sharpen and work on a frame-by-frame basis to ensure precise adjustments and corrections. Modernising vintage footage whilst preserving its original charm.
Explore the possibilities at The Ark by visiting their official website at The Ark.
Amazon Web Services
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a premier cloud computing platform provided by Amazon, offering a vast array of services designed to meet diverse computing needs. Since its launch in 2006, AWS has become a cornerstone of cloud infrastructure, providing resources such as computing power, storage, databases, and networking. It also supports advanced capabilities like machine learning, data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). With its flexible, pay-as-you-go pricing model, AWS allows businesses to scale their operations efficiently without the need for extensive upfront investment in physical hardware.
AWS operates a global network of data centers, ensuring high availability, low latency, and robust disaster recovery options. Its extensive suite of tools and services enables organizations of all sizes—from startups to large enterprises—to deploy, manage, and secure their applications effectively. Known for its reliability and innovation, AWS remains a leading choice for cloud solutions, offering a comprehensive ecosystem that supports a wide range of industry needs and use cases.
Omnisearch
Omnisearch is a leading provider of multimodal search software. It uses state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms to efficiently index and search petabyte-scale archives of multimedia content such as video, audio and images. From spoken quotes to appearances of people, text, logos, objects and more, Omnisearch makes searching your content as easy as a Google query. It even supports complex scene descriptions. Our product is used by media companies, national broadcasters and online education companies across five continents. Providing both cloud and on-premise solutions, it keeps customers’ content safe and secure while not requiring any extra storage space. Our exceptional engineering team provides customization and integration services to make sure the search functionality fits neatly into the customer’s own workflows.
SILVER
SPONSORS
Mayam
Mayam delivers workflow orchestration and metadata solutions to professional media organisations around the world. The Mayam Tasks workflow engine software package brings the advanced functionality required by leading media companies. The Mayam Tasks workflow engine is currently in use supporting media and metadata workflows in 15+ countries.
Our team of software and workflow experts have more than 20+ years of experience of implementing integrated media workflows and systems in the media environment. On top of the Mayam Tasks workflow engine, we offer professional services to design and implement orchestrated workflows, metadata managers and system integration services.
This year, Mayam is launching two new products. Mayam JustSKOS is a multilingual thesaurus manager that follows the SKOS-XL standard for knowledge organisation. Secondly, Mayam Core is a metadata manager that implements the EBU Core standards to store and exchange large quantities of complex metadata. For additional information, don’t hesitate to contact us via our website – mayam.com, and request a demonstration!
Mimir
Mimir is a video production and collaboration platform for professionals. The Fonn Group company, Mimir, embodies the front line of cloud-native platforms, redefining efficiency, seamless workflows and collaboration from any location.
Mimir manages your live videos, clips, images, and audio files. It uses AI for automatic metadata logging to power its industry-leading search.
Customers are, amongst others, VRT, NRK, Axel Springer, blinx, GB News, Deutsche Presse-Agentur, Formula E, TV 2 FYN, Sky News Australia, The New York Times, News UK, TVNZ, and ausbiz. Mimir has won several prestigious industry awards since its launch in early 2019.
About the Mimir team
The Mimir team has extensive experience in the media technology industry, spanning roles in vendors, public and commercial broadcasters, and media houses. The team possesses a deep understanding of video workflows, cloud-native technologies, and continuous delivery. We are dedicated to creating a new standard in media workflows. Our passion for delivering the best product in the world is our DNA. Visit our website for more information: http://onemimir.com/
MWA Nova: continuity, stability, flexibility
Experience, quality and innovation are three other main characteristics of their systems for audio and film postproduction and archive applications.
MWA Nova currently offers more specialist solutions for the actual physical transfer and replay of celluloid, nitrate and magnetic film for archival purposes than any other single manufacturer.
Our viewing and inspection table spinner V is an example of this.
We want to keep the functionality of the currently used STEENBECK tables – but based on the latest technology, with the possibility to record a viewing copy of various sound and film formats.
Learn more at: https://mwa-nova.com
NOA
NOA Archive Solutions has established itself as a pioneering force in the field of audiovisual archiving and preservation. With a commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage through advanced technology, NOA Archive Solutions offers comprehensive solutions tailored to the unique needs of broadcasters, cultural institutions, and archives worldwide. Their expertise spans the digitization and management of audio and video content, ensuring that valuable historical and contemporary media are preserved for future generations.
At the heart of NOA Archive Solutions’ approach lies a blend of cutting-edge software and hardware solutions designed to meet the challenges of archiving in the digital age. Their systems enable seamless digitization and restoration of analog and digital audiovisual content, paired with sophisticated metadata management capabilities that enhance accessibility and usability. By partnering with NOA Archive Solutions, organizations gain access to a wealth of knowledge and technology aimed at not only preserving but also maximizing the value and accessibility of their audiovisual collections. Explore more about their innovative solutions and their impact on global archiving practices at NOA Archive Solutions.
XenData
XenData, the global provider of active archive systems, has over 1500 installations in more than 95 countries. It is trusted for the long-term retention of media assets by many national and regional archive institutions and broadcasters. All XenData systems integrate easily with other applications and existing networks. We have proven installations with many complementary products, including from Dalet and NOA.
XenData offers data storage systems that archive media files to LTO data tape within a robotic library and scale to 100 Petabytes and beyond. High capacity LTO cartridges provide stable storage with a lifetime of more than 50 years. XenData systems write to LTO using industry standard interchange formats and, where required, make it easy to migrate content away from old legacy LTO formats and applications. XenData systems offer rich functionality including the option to browse video previews, create LTO cartridges for delivery to other organizations and to publish to the cloud.
BRONZE
SPONSORS
SUPPORTING
PARTNER
PROGRAMME
WELCOME TO BUCHAREST 2024
Don’t Believe Me, Just Watch!
The programme is correct at the time of publishing. Still, organisers reserve the right to alter it if and when deemed necessary, and the FIAT/IFTA Office reserves the right to make changes without prior notice to the parties concerned.
VENUES
SHERATON HOTEL
Conference, Newcomer’s Breakfast &
Closing Drinks Venue
Nestled in the heart of Romania’s bustling capital, Hotel Sheraton Bucharest offers an unparalleled blend of modern luxury and classic elegance. With its contemporary design, the hotel provides a serene oasis for both business and leisure travelers. Guests can enjoy spacious, well-appointed rooms and suites, top-tier amenities, and personalized service that ensures a comfortable and memorable stay. The hotel also boasts a variety of dining options, including a stylish rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city, perfect for savoring gourmet cuisine while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Bucharest.
Beyond its exceptional accommodations, Hotel Sheraton Bucharest features state-of-the-art conference facilities, making it an ideal venue for meetings, events, and weddings. The hotel’s prime location offers convenient access to the city’s key attractions, shopping districts, and cultural landmarks, allowing guests to explore Bucharest’s rich history and dynamic energy with ease. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, Hotel Sheraton Bucharest promises an unforgettable experience marked by refined comfort and world-class hospitality.
If you’re attending the conference and decide to stay at the Sheraton Hotel, you can book your room at a discounted rate here.
ROMANIAN NATIONAL TELEVISION
Opening Cocktail Venue
Romanian National Television, known locally as Televiziunea Română (TVR), is the primary public television broadcaster in Romania, with a legacy dating back to its first broadcast in 1956. As a pivotal institution in Romanian media, TVR offers a diverse array of programming that spans news, documentaries, cultural shows, entertainment, and educational content, catering to a wide audience across the nation. Committed to delivering high-quality, unbiased information, TVR plays a crucial role in informing and educating the public, while also preserving and promoting Romanian culture and heritage.
TVR’s headquarters in Bucharest is a modern facility equipped with advanced technology to ensure the highest standards of broadcast quality. The network operates several channels, each with a distinct focus, including TVR1, TVR2, and TVR International, which reaches Romanian communities abroad. With a rich history and a forward-looking approach, Romanian National Television continues to be a trusted and influential voice in the Romanian media landscape, dedicated to upholding its mission of public service broadcasting.
BRAGADIRU PALACE
Gala Dinner & Awards Show
Bragadiru Palace, an architectural gem located in Bucharest, stands as a testament to Romania’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Built in the late 19th century by entrepreneur Dumitru Marinescu Bragadiru, the palace showcases an exquisite blend of neoclassical and eclectic styles, featuring ornate facades, grand halls, and lush gardens. Originally intended as a venue for both business and leisure, the palace has retained its grandeur and elegance, making it a sought-after location for a variety of events, from weddings and corporate gatherings to cultural festivals and private celebrations.
Today, Bragadiru Palace is not only a historical monument but also a vibrant cultural hub. Its meticulously restored interiors provide a stunning backdrop for events, offering a unique ambiance that combines historical charm with modern amenities. Visitors can explore the palace’s rich history through guided tours, while also enjoying its role as a contemporary venue that hosts a dynamic range of activities. Bragadiru Palace stands as a symbol of Bucharest’s enduring legacy, inviting guests to experience its majestic beauty and timeless appeal.
REGISTRATION
BUCHAREST 2024
Early Bird rates until August 16th!
All conference registrations include coffee and refreshments during the breaks and lunch provided at the conference venue.
FIAT/IFTA WORLD CONFERENCE 2024
REGISTRATION FEES
Early Bird
FIAT/IFTA MEMBER
€300.00
Regular rate (Euro)
SPEAKER
€300.00
Regular rate (Euro)
FIAT/IFTA NON-MEMBER
€350.00
Regular rate (Euro)
Other rates
SINGLE DAY
€150.00
1-Day rate (Euro)
This ticket doesn’t include access to the FIAT/IFTA social events.
Places may be limited.
STUDENTS (1-DAY)
€25.00
1-Day rate (Euro)
Students will be required to submit valid proof of registration at a university for the 2024-2025 academic year at the venue.
This ticket doesn’t include access to the FIAT/IFTA social events.
Places are limited to 20 participants.
GALA DINNER
€90.00
Regular rate (Euro)
Available for third parties interested in attending the Gala Dinner social event on October 18th.
This ticket doesn’t include access to the FIAT/IFTA World Conference.
Places may be limited.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
- Participants who cancel before 30th September 2024 will be entitled to a 50% refund of their registration fee. No refunds are possible for cancellations received after 30th September 2024.
- A participant who cancels may ask the FIAT/IFTA Office to transfer the registration to a colleague. A fee of 10% of the registration fee is charged for the replacements/transfers.
- Cancellations must be submitted in writing to FIAT/IFTA Office in order to receive any possible reimbursement.
- The participants shall bear any bank charges for international transfers.
- Refunds for no-shows are not possible.
- Until payment has been received, registration for the World Conference and any of its associated events will not be valid. Without a valid registration, participants will not be listed in the programme or in the list of participants.
- The FIAT/IFTA reserves the right to update individual registrations and invoices to reflect the registrant’s FIAT/IFTA membership status.
- The data submitted during registration will be used in the framework of the membership of the organisation mentioned above to FIAT/IFTA. This data will be treated according to FIAT/IFTA’s Privacy and Data Processing Statement.
The programme is correct at the time of publishing. Still, organisers reserve the right to alter it if and when deemed necessary, and the FIAT/IFTA Office reserves the right to make changes without prior notice to the parties concerned.
All World Conference and other arrangements are subject to alteration and cancellation at any time without prior notice due to factors that are outside of the organisers’ reasonable control. This will be at the sole and absolute discretion of the organisers. Should such events, such as Force Majeure, render the organisers unable to deliver such service, the organisers shall not be held responsible. The organisers cannot be held responsible for any damages and/or costs arising from any such alteration or cancellation.
TRAVEL ADVICE
Travelling to Bucharest
PLANE
To reach Bucharest by plane, book a flight to Henri Coandă International Airport, the city’s main airport, which offers numerous international and domestic flights.
BUS
Check for international bus services like FlixBus, which offer routes to Bucharest from various European cities. Travel to one of the city’s main bus stations, such as Autogara Filaret or Autogara Militari, which connects Bucharest with various European destinations.
CAR
Drive along major European routes such as the E81 or E85, ensuring you follow the Romanian road regulations and prepare for tolls.
TRAIN
Traveling to Bucharest by train can be a convenient and scenic option!
If you’re coming from other European cities, start by checking connections with major railway operators like Deutsche Bahn (for journeys from Germany, accessible at bahn.com) or the Austrian ÖBB (bookable at oebb.at). These websites offer routes that often connect through Budapest, a major hub with regular trains to Bucharest.
For a direct approach, Romanian Railways (CFR) offers comprehensive options for both domestic and international routes, and tickets can be purchased directly on their website at cfrcalatori.ro.
Additionally, platforms like Rail Europe provide an easy interface for booking international train tickets, including trips to Bucharest. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure the best rates and ensure availability.
Accomodation
Finding accommodation in Bucharest is a breeze with a variety of options to suit every budget and preference.
Start by browsing popular websites like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia, where you’ll find everything from cozy apartments to luxurious hotels. For a more local touch, check out OLX.ro and Imobiliare.ro, which offer rentals directly from property owners.
Remember to read reviews and check the location to ensure you’re close to the city’s vibrant attractions. Happy searching and enjoy your stay in the charming capital of Romania!
If you’re attending the conference and decide to stay at the Sheraton Hotel, you can book your room at a discounted rate here.
Public Transport
Public transport in Bucharest is convenient and runs from 5 AM to 11 PM, with night buses available on specific routes after 11 PM. Check routes and timetables here. The subway system operates from 5 AM to 11:15 PM, with tickets available at vending machines or by credit card at the turnstiles for about 0.30 euros (3 Lei) per journey.
Train tickets can be purchased online from CFR Calatori, from vending machines on platforms, or inside the train. The trip from the airport to the main railway station takes about 25 minutes and costs around 1 euro (5.5 Lei). For other destinations in Romania, it’s best to book at least 24 hours in advance.
Surface public transport tickets, valid for 90 minutes, can be bought inside buses, trams, or trolleybuses, or from vending shops at some stations, costing 0.30 euros (3 Lei). Integrated tickets for both subway and surface transport are available. More information can be found here and here.
General Visa Advice
If you require an invitation letter for the FIAT/IFTA World Conference 2023 while applying for your VISA, please email our General Secretary. We will do our best to provide you with one.
PREVIOUS EDITIONS
- 2023
- 2022
- 2021
- 2020
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- 2016
- 2015
SOCIAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 15th | 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Opening
Cocktail
Attendees
Free access with registration.
Students
Not included in the registration.
OCTOBER 17th | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Newcomers’
Breakfast
Attendees
Free access with registration.
Students
Not included in the registration.
OCTOBER 17th | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Awards Candidate
Session
Attendees
Free access with registration.
Students
Free access with registration.
OCTOBER 17th | 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Gala Dinner &
Award Show
Attendees
Free access with registration.
Students & Third Parties
Registration is available for a fee.
OCTOBER 18th | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Closing Drinks
Attendees
Free access with registration.
Students
Free access with registration.