Convergence, Collaboration and Creativity

* Contrary to popular belief, broadcasting has, hitherto, been a low-tech industry. * It is one of the last sectors on the planet to be transformed by IT. * Convergence is not just about speed and performance of computers; it is also about the power of networks. * Networks create a new collaborative environment. * The new environment is inventing its own new narratives. * The face of broadcasting is changed forever

John Varney joined the BBC in 2002 as Chief Technology Officer, responsible for the overall technology vision and strategy for the whole of the BBC worldwide. He leads the Technology Direction Group, an operation identifying the technology requirements for the corporation now and in the future. The Group is accountable for both delivering best technology practice across the BBC and reducing the cost of production processes, along with creating and delivering the technical innovations that make the BBC the most creative organisation in the world. In addition, he was appointed in September 2004 to oversee BBC Research & Development. John leads the world-renowned R&D centre for media production and broadcasting technology to work alongside Technology Direction to give it the necessary guidance to support the BBC's vision for Building Public Value and creating a Digital Britain.