"Putting Content in Context"

Digital objects such as video, audio, and images can be stored and arranged through digital asset management (DAM) software, which simplifies their location, modification, and reuse. Many enterprises are using DAM to provide a fast, centralized method that workers and partners can use to locate and manipulate content. For example, DaimlerChrysler will debut a DAM system this month that will facilitate the central storage and management of video, images, graphics, and data culled from corporate Web sites, print material, and electronic kiosks in an effort to curb duplication costs.

To bring three separate databases of still images, moving images, and textual information together under a single digital asset management system, Coca-Cola turned to a content management program. Because converting analog assets into a digital medium can be an expensive and arduous investment, many companies have to narrow their choices down: At the beginning of its conversion, Coca-Cola archives director Phil Mooney selected only those objects that would probably be frequently used. Companies also need to decide who they will make their digital assets available to, and how such usage will be facilitated. International Data (IDC) predicts that sales revenues of software for "rich media asset management" will skyrocket from $117 million to $1.8 billion between 2000 and 2004. As time does on, DAM software will be enhanced with more digital rights management features and natural language-based searching, among other things.
(http://www.cio.com/archive/071502/et_article.html)