BBC Scotland's Digital Fiasco As Computers Crash

Jan 6 2008 By Lynn Mcpherson

Exclusive Computer Shambles At New Hq Threatens Live Broadcasts

BBC Scotland staff yesterday revealed major technical problems are plaguing their new HQ.

They claim some live broadcasts were almost kept off air by glitches linked to a £2billion computer contract.

Insiders at the Beeb's flagship Pacific Quay HQ in Glasgow say there have been big problems with IT contractors Siemens.

In-house engineers maintained the system before the German firm took over in 2004.

A Pacific Quay insider said: "Since the technology was contracted out things have been a disaster, with live programmes often barely making it on to air. Siemens are not geared up to dealing with the demands and deadlines of broadcasting.

"Engineers can be difficult to get hold of and when you do manage to track one down they aren't actually able to fix things.

"Staff have to explain that when a live programme is due to air in five minutes they have to deal with the problem immediately or it all falls apart.

"Tapes don't work and computers stick, which is not what you need in the already stressful environment of live television - and it happens at least once a day.

"This is why BBC Scotland news programmes have been a disaster lately. Staff are under immense pressure and are very angry. It's so bad it's also affecting programmes recorded weeks ahead."

The £188million Pacific Quay building is the world's first fully-digital operation with the first integrated content production systems for radio, TV and internet.

ABBC spokeswoman said:

"There have been some issueswith technology. These are bedding down with time.

"Discussions with staff and unions are taking place."

SUNDAY EMAIL l.mcpherson@sundaymail.co.uk