MusicMaster Blog
How to create a working database from scratch! posted on June 1st, 2010
By Marianne Burkett
Imagine your owner or General Manager walking into your office or the studio telling you “Hey, we’re starting a new format, you’re in charge and we’re launching ASAP.”
Oh boy…your stress level has just risen 150% and you’re wondering …”Where do I start?
The order in which you implement the project is important. The first 3 steps done in the order below will save you a lot of time and frustration.
The first thing you do is acquire a library of music from a reliable source. There are several companies that can provide libraries in a hurry, with a simple internet search. You need the new library ripped into your playout or automation software. When you do so, each cut is assigned an automation number – which is crucial in the early process.
Next, clone your existing MMwin database and strip the clone of its music and non-music. That way, you’re retaining important files like your export to automation design and printed log design.
The new library you’ve acquired can be pulled into MusicMaster using a Library Import utility, or you can copy/paste the new library right into MusicMaster from an Excel spreadsheet. You may need to put a call into your MusicMaster Scheduling Consultant for assistance, but both the Library Import and Copy/Paste are relatively simple procedures.
I recommend the next steps be done in this order:
Create Categories Populate the Categories Code all the music you decide to use and make sure your Artist Keywords are in place. Build Clocks. If you’re launching a brand new format – a few starter clocks should suffice. Remember – Rome was not built in a day. Build the Clock assignment grid and activate it. Install some basic rules in the Rule Tree to get you started. Click on the Rule Tree Wizard for some basic recommendations and build from there. Run the Scheduler to see the results of the rules you’ve created. Test your export to automation to make sure the music is accepted into the playout software.
I promise if you follow these steps, the rest is easy. Checking your rotations and turnovers – tweaking the rules etc…
Of course, as with any major undertaking – consult with colleagues – or put a call into your MusicMaster Scheduling Consultant with questions you may have. You can also access a world of knowledge within the MusicMaster website by accessing our webinar series or support center.
Our job is to help you be successful.