Microsoft

Live Streaming & Video Production

Media

Production

From Script to Stream: A Polished Virtual Conference Experience

Each year, Microsoft’s Azure Cosmos DB team hosts a global virtual conference to engage developers with the latest insights and advancements in distributed database technologies. For the 2025 edition, Microsoft turned to Catalysis to produce a high-quality, end-to-end video and broadcast experience that could scale globally and reflect the polish of the brand. Catalysis delivered a comprehensive production package including remote and studio recordings, post-production editing, and live broadcast coordination. The result was a seamless multi-hour event that reflected Microsoft's brand and content goals while providing a reliable, engaging experience for attendees worldwide.

Approach

The Cosmos DB Conference required more than just content—it demanded a fully orchestrated production that blended pre-recorded sessions with a professional live show. With multiple videos to produce, studio and remote components to manage, and multiple stakeholders involved, the project called for creative and operational precision. Microsoft needed a partner who could not only deliver excellent content but also coordinate across platforms, presenters, and timelines to ensure a smooth broadcast and viewer experience.

Solution

Catalysis approached the project with a dual-pronged strategy focused on video content creation and live production. The team produced a total of 22 videos, including 12 main session presentations, five highlight reels, interstitial segments, a social media promo, and the conference’s opening and closing videos. To maintain a cohesive visual identity, all assets included branded lower-thirds, transitions, and animations aligned with Microsoft’s guidelines. Remote recordings were facilitated through Microsoft’s StreamYard platform, while all post-production was handled in-house, ensuring consistent quality across every deliverable.

On the live side, Catalysis collaborated with Microsoft Studio D to produce a 3-hour broadcast featuring two hosts, multiple keynote presentations, and real-time transitions between live and pre-recorded elements. Detailed run-of-show documents were created to manage timing and technical requirements. Rehearsals with hosts and keynote speakers ensured the event ran without a hitch. Throughout, Catalysis coordinated closely with Microsoft and Run Studios to align talent, production teams, and creative vision.

Results

The 2025 Azure Cosmos DB Conference was executed flawlessly, showcasing Microsoft’s technical leadership in an engaging, professional, and polished format. While formal viewer metrics are still being collected, the response from internal stakeholders and participants was overwhelmingly positive. The event succeeded in elevating the conference experience to new production standards, setting a new bar for future Microsoft virtual events.