The Digital Production Partnership (DPP) is on the brink of agreeing common specifications for file-based delivery of programmes to the UK’s biggest broadcasters.

The specifications are due to be released in July and will be based on the AVCI standard and MXF-wrapped, which Channel 4 broadcast and distribution chief technology officer Kevin Burrows described as a “future-proof and industry standard”.

Broadcasters currently receive only a small percentage of programmes as files, with the bulk delivered on HD Cam SR tape, but Burrows said he envisaged the majority of programmes being delivered as files within two years.

He added: “Once people have an understanding of the processes, and the kit they need is in place, they will move quickly because they will see the advantages.”

The DPP is an initiative led by the BBC, C4 and ITV.