Interoperable Master Format (IMF)

Interoperable Master Format Project

The goal of the Interoperable Master Format (IMF) project is to develop a voluntary specification for an interoperable set of master files (and associated metadata) to enable standard interchange and automated creation of downstream distribution packages.  We hope to create a voluntary specification that will be handed to SMPTE in late 2009 to kick off a formal standards-setting process.

Expected outcomes of the IMF project:

    * Single, interchangeable master file format
    * Automated packaging & delivery
    * Minimize storage
    * Simplify post production transcodes

The IMF will store one master set of file-based elements to be assembled for any downstream distribution using multiple Composition Play Lists (Recipes), similar to what is used in present day Digital Cinema Packaging (DCP). The broad concept of a high quality, uniform DVP should lower costs, improve time-to-market, and increase interoperability of existing production processes and needs.  Of course, a DVP file-based workflow could be implemented and customized by any content creator, service provider, or distribution partner.