The business process in modern media production environments is based on file-based workflows. It begins at the camera where the video and first metadata assets are gathered. In the second step, these assets are ingested into the post-production chain and more metadata is requested—triggering the first video file processing. Along the post-production chain, these sources are refined. So first, an editorial review and selection happens, followed by cutting, animation and graphics, sound, and any subtitling. Finally, a finished asset arises to broadcast "on air".

The content is provided as "Catch-Up TV" or "Video-on-Demand" in libraries shortly after airing or even parallel to the linear distribution. For such offerings on the so-called "second screen" or "multi-screen", more metadata and essences are required. The libraries offer at least a preview and a brief content description. Often there is a trailer, storyboard, long description, and more information about the provided clip available. Also essential for providers and their suppliers are exploitation rights and pricing models.

So-called aggregators form asset packages. These are occasionally processed by other service providers and often made available to multiple propagators. The latter, in turn, usually have several suppliers.

The business processes described begins in the studio and ultimately end on the devices of the viewers or users. At the beginning of the described process chain, the focus is on the processing of video materials and towards the end outweighs the need for metadata aggregation and delivery. Basically, it's always a file-based, automated, self-managing workflow.