UCI Kinowelt in Germany & Austria Simplifies KDM Distribution with Locksmith

Locksmith is designed to manage distribution of digital cinema security keys (KDMs), collecting them from distributors and delivering directly to the relevant screen server in the cinema in order to play out content. Previously, distributors needed to email KDMs to each cinema and thereafter exhibitors followed a manual and time-consuming process of searching for and transferring each KDM. Now Locksmith automates the process by receiving the KDMs from a cloud, examining each key, calculating which screen it relates to, and delivering it ready for use - all without human intervention or error.

Other benefits to the system include reporting and alerts to enable exhibitors and distributors to see any errors with KDM delivery. Alerts may be configured so they are sent directly via email or phone. Locksmith is run via a secure, web-based system, which means it is accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.

Locksmith integrates with other AAM digital cinema software, including the Screenwriter Theatre Management System (TMS) and Producer, the enterprise TMS for managing cinema chains. Once an exhibitor schedules a show using Screenwriter or Producer, Locksmith proactively examines each show to determine if any are missing KDMs. This innovative system alerts cinema operators before any shows are lost.

Jens Heinze, Director of Operations for UCI, said We have been trialling Locksmith on three of our sites very successfully, and have transferred over 300 KDMs in just the past two weeks and over 1500 since the start of the trial. We have been impressed with Locksmith's efficiency, by automating an error-prone and time-consuming process it has made our operations faster and more accurate, and crucially, reduces the chances of losing shows due to KDM errors. We're looking forward to seeing those benefits across all our sites.

Eric Stevens, Commercial Director of AAM, added It's great to see Locksmith in action; providing concrete benefits to exhibitors in saving time and reducing human error. KDMs have long been a source of frustration for both distributors and exhibitors. Locksmith's automation of the process enables both parties to see even more benefit from digital distribution while ensuring absolute content security. Locksmith is a crucial part of our end-to-end software system making all aspects of digital cinema work seamlessly to deliver efficient operations.

Odeon UCI sites in Germany, Austria and Italy already use Arts Alliance Media's Screenwriter TMS, as well as the company's Auditor software to manage VPF deals. AAM also provides the sites with remote monitoring and log collection from its London-based NOC.

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