DVD* Quality Control
DVD* Quality Control (QC)staff work in companies that author DVDs by programming multiple asset programmes into a DVD master, according to client specifications. From this master DVDs are copied for distribution. These companies can be stand alone DVD facilities, Post Production or Replication Houses. QC staff are responsible for quality control of the audio and video content, and for testing of all aspects of the navigation and production of DVDs.
What is the job?
DVD QCs are vital members of the DVD production team, they are responsible for the thorough testing and checking of DVD disc contents, including video, audio, graphics, subtitles, etc., to defined specifications. This work can be split into two. Firstly, the integrity of the encoded audio and video material has to be checked - this is called AV QC or Runtime QC. Secondly, the navigation and programming of the finished DVD must be thoroughly tested. To do these tasks QC staff refer to all pertinent information relating to each project.
AV QC staff carry out asset checking, including referencing external assets and encoded reports. Specifically they are looking for any evidence that the quality of the original materials has been compromised by the encoding process that prepared the programmes/films for use in the DVD. Issues like audio drop outs, macroblocking and pixellisation must be identified and reported.
DVD QC ensures that the highest quality is maintained throughout the authoring process, and that any bugs or errors in the authoring of the discs are promptly identified and dealt with. To do this they test and check disc functionality and navigation. This is to ensure that DVD discs perform correctly and according to specifications. These tests are carried out at emulation and check disc stages. In order to keep track of bugs or faults, and to ensure that they are promptly dealt with, DVD QCs maintain accurate, up to date logs and records of all testing undertaken.
They also carry out all related administration for each production, and document, file and report any relevant project information to the producer or project manager responsible, including projected completion dates and any issues which may affect them. They assist in building and refining procedural documentation in order to facilitate their use. They ensure that all testing equipment and systems are fully functional, and recommend or implement all necessary upgrades and maintenance, reporting to and working closely with the Technical Manager and/or QC Manager.
A senior Quality Controller would provide support and training to less experienced members of the team. They would also keep up to date on technical developments and new formats in order to advise and assist senior management.
Typical career routes
DVD QCs may begin their careers in junior roles within DVD, Post Production or replication facility, progressing to other roles, often in the technical areas thereby gaining valuable knowledge and experience of the production process, before joining the QC team.
Essential knowledge and skills
DVD QCs must have some knowledge of DVD and VT QC requirements and procedures, and should understand the production processes involved. They must have an advanced understanding of DVD menu navigation, functionality and encoding artefacts. They need to be able to develop comprehensive reporting systems in order to work effectively on a number of productions, to specified deadlines, while maintaining all specified QC standards and requirements.
Key Skills include:
- excellent oral and written communication skills;
- precise attention to detail;
- a systematic lateral thinking approach to projects;
- a keen interest and advanced knowledge of IT and multimedia files;
- advanced understanding of DVD menu navigation, functionality and encoding artefacts;
- awareness of developing DVD authoring technologies;
- ability to motivate self and others;
- a high level of organisational skills;
- initiative and problem solving skills;
- ability to work effectively under pressure;
- effective team working skills;
- diplomacy and sensitivity when working with clients;
- knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures.
Training and qualifications
A relevant new media qualification, e.g., Foundation Degree in Broadcast Operations and Production, HE in Broadcast Post Production may be helpful but is not a necessity. A thorough knowledge of video and audio formats and standards, in theory and practice, is vital. A thorough understanding of DVD production processes is essential.
Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for Creative Media. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.
Websites
- UK Screen Association is the trade body for Post Production;
- BECTU, the trade union represents Post Production personnel;
- BKSTS (The Moving Image Society) publishes Image Technology;
- Ravensbourne College of Design and Communication
Publications
- Broadcast, weekly newspaper for the UK TV and Radio industry;
- Televisual, monthly business magazine for the broadcast industry;
- How Video Works - Weynand & Weise - ISBN 0-240-80614-X
- Video Editing and Post Production - Gary H Anderson - ISBN 0-240-80337-X
- Digital Editing with Final Cut Pro 4 - Mamer &Wallace - ISBN 0-941188-91-4
- Digital Nonlinear Editing - Thomas Ohanian - ISBN 0-240-80225-X
- Editing Digital Film - Jaime Fowler - ISBN 0-240-80470-8
All books available from: http://www.focalpress.com/
Glossary
Linear : Editing in formats where it is not possible to move sections around within edited material, e.g., VHS, u-matic or BETA, etc.
Non-Linear : Editing in formats where it is possible to move sections around within edited material, e.g., film, AVID, Edit Pro, etc.
*DVD means here: Standard DVD, HD DVD, Blu-ray and associated formats
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DVD Quality Control - Post Production
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