System and method for monitoring and controlling the production of audio and video streams

This invention relates to broadcast automation systems, and more particularly to a system and method for integrating the schedule management, playback and media management of digital audio and video in response to an event-based playback schedule. An Integration Controller integrates broadcast automation systems and thereby provides a single command and control center for monitoring production of the audio and video stream. An event-based schedule, or a "playlist," specifies the segments to be played along with the necessary timing and hardware information. Each event in the schedule commands the playback or record of a video segment, generation of a special effect, transfer of a video segment from one device to another or closure of one or more video switches. Events may be launched automatically at a specified time, or manually by an operator. An Integration Controller (IC) communicates with an Event Scheduling System via a Scheduling System Interface. The Scheduling System Interface communicates with the Integration Controller via the IC server. The IC server utilizes various modules to communicate with Device Drivers, a Log Manager and one or more User Interfaces.