Interactive Television

Abstract

This paper presents recent experiments in interactive program development done at the BBC. Specific examples using combinations of digital technology and requiring different amounts of bandwidth are reviewed. Lessons learned are shared and various design solutions are presented. The emphasis is on the new thinking required of program developers who must accommodate both linear and nonlinear story lines as well as enriched data content This is a realistic look at several new program options some of which are possible today and some of which may become possible in the near further. All the programs described were created for the TV broadcast medium, work within the traditional TV program constraint of a set time slot, and are targeted to specific audience segments