Media technologies for businesses includes all the tools and systems that permit the production, distribution and consumption of digital content today in a digital-first age. These include everything from cloud computing to social media management tools, to predictive analytics. Integrated media technologies (IMT) aid organizations in reducing complicated tasks and improve customer experience. They also provide tangible business outcomes.

The development of new media technologies, including web streaming platforms, social media, and immersive experiences, has radically changed traditional business models and spurred growth in the media industry. Media technologies may not have led to the world-wide village that Marshall McLuhan imagined but they are continuing to change the way we think about spatial and social relationships.

Streaming platforms let users access content online which reduces the costs and time to market for broadcasters and opening up new revenue opportunities. Streaming platforms offer increased flexibility regarding how and where audiences consume content, and predictive analytics can help optimize the user’s experience and increase retention rates.

As more media companies transition to membership-based or subscription-based business models, they need sophisticated software that will facilitate the entire customer lifecycle including seamless signup flows and flexible payment options. They also need retention strategies that are driven by data. Subscription management software is a solution that aid in the acquisition of subscribers, streamlined billing and dunning workflows that are automated as well as unified customer communication and advanced analytics.

Integrating these new media technologies can be a problem for small and medium-sized enterprises. Collaboration with a digital content provider on-premise could be a game changer as they can provide integrated, seamless solutions that allow small businesses to deliver an multi-channel experience.