A master scheduler system and method automatically operate and/or coordinate
operation
of a plurality of relatively independent systems, including manual systems, to
function as an NVOD system to provide automating diverse operations for supporting
and maintaining an NVOD system. The master scheduler system and method may also
be applied to automate manual processes of analog-based and digital broadcast based
service. The master scheduler receives, processes, and disseminates NVOD schedule-related
information for end-to-end NVOD service; that is, sending video from a back-end
which stores video data to a head-end for viewing by a user. The master scheduler
also provides operations support for the NVOD system, such as maintaining the head-end
configuration, allocating channels, performing asset management, performing content
management, etc. The master scheduler provides validation of scheduling information
by comparing information such as programmed schedules, asset metadata, and data
obtained by measuring asset parameters, for example duration.