WINNIPEG – One of the competitive advantages cable companies often speak of is their cable community channels – the volunteer-driven, low on the dial micro-locally-focused channels that only they show.
The western DSL TV providers are trying to close that advantage using video on demand technology. SaskTel launched its VOD community programming in December and today MTS TV added Winnipeg On Demand to its lineup of VOD programming.
On Winnipeg On Demand, viewers can watch stories about people, events and activities within the community, says the press release.
"Winnipeg On Demand showcases stories that inspire viewers with the history, culture and issues affecting life in this city," said Stan Kurtas, vice-president marketing, consumer markets division. "This programming will encourage MTS TV viewers to learn more about their community, engage them with important civic and social issues, and build awareness of the people and places that make Winnipeg unique."
Now featured on Winnipeg On Demand are gardens of local homes and commercial properties nominated in the Winnipeg in Bloom contest. MTS TV viewers can view more than 600 nominations, perhaps recognizing a home in their own neighbourhood. A local production company is producing the Winnipeg in Bloom series, with two award-winning videographers who are graduates of Tec-Voc High School’s Broadcast Program, says the press release.
Winnipeg On Demand content will refresh on an ongoing basis while building a library of programming that builds pride and understanding about Winnipeg’s people and places. Current content includes Sierra’s Song, a biography of Sierra Noble, a Métis fiddler, and Legacy in Stone, a documentary on the building of the Manitoba Legislature.
And the advantage it has over cable’s community television is the digital platform where the content will be stored for some time and viewers can pause, stop, rewind and fast-forward when watching their little tykes in the Santa Claus parade, for example.
MTS also put out the call for local producers, who are professionals, hobbyists or students from educational institutions, to submit their work for consideration.
