The Impact of Artificial Intelligence and Disruptive Technologies on the Media & Entertainment Sector

Bergin, Ste; Grubert, Ben; O'Mahoney, Sean

Abstract

The Media & Entertainment sector has continually transformed due to disruptive technologies. From the Lumière Brothers' Cinématographe in the 19ᵗʰ century, to the Virtual Production techniques of today and beyond, the sector has witnessed significant transformations driven largely by development of new technologies.

This study examines the impact of recent disruptive technologies on the Film & TV industry, and the broader Media & Entertainment sector, aiming to determine whether these innovations can reduce production costs while simultaneously improving outcomes in the creation process of audiovisual media.

‘Understanding the Impact of Disruptive Technologies on Media & Entertainment: A Conceptual Framework’ is a thesis written as part of a PhD by Publication. The thesis adopts a multi-work structure comprising academic papers and short films. Each academic paper covers one disruptive technology, whilst each short film compares traditional production methods to ones with these innovative technologies.

A list of the technologies covered includes:
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Blockchain and Web3
• Deep Fakes
• Distributed and Decentralised Video Rendering
• Peer-to-Peer Rental of Audiovisual Equipment
• Virtual Production

This conceptual academic framework employs a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Key metrics are used to provide a thesis-wide benchmark to establish the impact of these technologies on the sector and to gain a deeper understanding of their effects on various aspects of audiovisual media production. Examples of metrics include: cost of production, time to produce content, resolution, frame rates, realism of CGI and SFX, audience engagement and satisfaction, and expert opinions.

The findings of the thesis may impact industry professionals, academia and policymakers alike. Ultimately, the research seeks to contribute to the advancement of the creative industries, enhance the quality and efficiency of audiovisual media production, and, by extension, positively influence the business operations within the wider Media and Entertainment sector. Each academic paper published as part of this thesis will provide key findings on the impact of the corresponding technology.

Citation

Bergin, S., Grubert, B., & O'Mahoney, S. (2022, July). The Impact of Artificial Intelligence and Disruptive Technologies on the Media & Entertainment Sector. Paper presented at Learning, Teaching and Student Experience (LTSE) 2023, International Convention Centre, Newport, Wales

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: Learning, Teaching and Student Experience (LTSE) 2023
• Conference Location: International Convention Centre, Newport, Wales
• Deposit Date: Dec 11, 2023
• Publisher: Springer Verlag
• Series Title: The Impact of Disruptive Technologies on Media & Entertainment
• Series Number: 1
• Keywords: Media, Media & Entertainment, Film Production, Film Producing, Media Technology, Creative Technology, Creative Technologies