Counting down to the online forum on “Archives Access And Exploitation: Dealing With Rights And IP Restrictions”, scheduled for 10 February 2022, Broadcast Media Africa conversed with Dirk Wilson, the Founding Partner of AdRights. In sharing his expertise, Wilson conveyed his experience, knowledge and expertise by highlighting some of the challenges faced by the industry when it comes to technology adoption. In addition, he noted how essential it is for technology providers to collaborate for an improved offering and for archivists’ mindsets to be welcoming towards new technology advancements.
Moreover, Wilson called for the need for industry entrants to be educated on how and when rights are applied and the risk factors associated with content rights and restrictions.
Below is an excerpt of the conversation Dirk Wilson had with BMA on the forthcoming forum, where he is a panellist:
BMA: What influenced your decision to agree to participate in the Online Forum on “Archives Access And Exploitation: Dealing With Rights And IP Restrictions”?
Dirk Wilson: Well, for one, I read most of your newsletters and believe that BMA is a superb platform to be informed and involved with. Talent media use-rights is a multi-faceted topic. I welcome the opportunity to be included in any debate that helps your delegates and readers, particularly with the ambiguities around globally applying and managing talent use-rights infringements.
BMA: How would you describe the relationship between archives access, IP rights management and the accelerated digital migration that is taking place?
Dirk Wilson: I would say pivotal – should there be a real buy-in from the various stakeholders to accelerate digital platforms and API collaborations in order to assist towards eradicating costly use-rights infringements.
BMA: What is the biggest industry challenge faced at the moment in relation to international IP systems, such as those that govern patents, trademarks and copyrights??
Dirk Wilson: I can only speak from our niche, being the systems and groups in Africa and internationally that assist with support, transparency and accountability regarding global talent media use rights. If the users of these systems don’t understand the basic industry guidelines and best practices, then, unfortunately, the systems that are there to help are unlikely to be effective.
BMA: In your opinion, what do you think can be done to improve archives access and licensing models across the African continent?
Dirk Wilson: On the topic of asset archives access, I would say collaboration between various technology providers will improve access by essential stakeholders.
BMA: Could you please tell us what you hope fellow participants will take away from this industry event?
Dirk Wilson: Adoption of various technologies can play a significant role in combating the challenges the industry faces and the mindset changes that are essential in order for progress to happen.
More needs to be done to educate the fresh blood entering the industry on understanding how and when rights are applied and the risk factors perpetuated in the absence of understanding the complex aspects of media use rights and restrictions.
