Seen and heard: duality at the access points to television databases

Abstract

PurposeTo show how the double nature of audiovisual material, that it is viewed and referenced, is reflected at the access points of a documentary database.Design/methodology/approachTo achieve this aim a journey through the indexation elements – supported by explanatory examples – is undertaken, so as to identify and analyze onomastic, thematic, geographical and chronological aspects.FindingsThe findings reveal the need to identify in indexation the elements viewed in the image track and referenced in the sound track; such a need is supported by user/journalist requests, so that the documentation service is adapted to such information needs.Research limitationsThe management method displayed is only valid for medium and large television companies. This derives from the complexity and cost of human resources and time dedicated.Practical implicationsThe practical value lies in the fact that the best proven structure for indexation of TV audiovisual documents is shown, with this being a useful and agile guide for the implantation of information services.Originality/valueThere are few studies that develop the documentation management of audiovisual documents, of those that count on valid work that stems from the study of indexation in television.