Bringing the digital domain to the world is proving to be a bigger challenge than anyone realized. Prior to Monday's opening exhibits of NAB 2001 (National Association of Broadcasters), I talked to many industry veterans and press colleagues. The recurring topics included: Did you hear "so and so" was out of business or were struggling. Many companies are entering into more alliances, going through forced mergers, laying off staff or becoming acquired.

Others faced challenges in deciding what equipment to offer or purchase, how to manufacture it and sell it at a profit, in light of falling prices. Increased competition, changing technologies and end user frustration with products and services that don't live up to their hype rounded out these initial comments. Stock market performance and devaluations added a sobering tone to the opening days of NAB 2001.

The ominous storm and rain clouds gathering over the satellite vehicle lot along Paradise Road,

outlining the steel super structure of LVCC's South Hall's massive expansion did little to dampen the industry's enthusiasm and energy.

Workers seemed possessed to complete their tasks by Monday morning. The companies paying the bills and hopefully benefiting from future revenues were even more focused on the continuing build out of the digital infrastructure using their products and services. After all, this is NAB and it's Spring -- there are products to hype and money to be made.

Embrace The Future

Copyright © 2001 Jim Bennett All rights reserved.