An enterprise innovation: University of Reading Video Publishing System

Abstract

Technology innovation in universities can be formidable tasks due to size of user base, the increasing distance between campus and students, but also increasing proximity that technologies such as video could establish. University of Reading, UK, having invested in smaller installations Helix and iTunesU, then decided to implement an enterprise-level transcoding and publishing system. The process faced many challenges. The passion and commitment from a core community provided enough impetus for senior management to move the project forward. A major innovation process ensued which saw further engagements from increasingly more and diverse users. By championing best practice and demonstrating excellence in technology, entrepreneurship that is fundamental for successful innovation, this paper demonstrates evidence of excellence in many ways. The innovation remains operational and is sustaining high use with very few issues and problems for over four years. The paper suggests methodologies that others could consider in their own innovation.