In March of 2006 AP launched the Online Video Network which has grown to include nearly 2,000 news affiliates. Hear why AP thought it was critical to succeed in building this network and how that led us to toss out many aspects of how AP traditionally offers its services. We’ll also cover how the affiliate base has received and integrated this new video service into their websites, what the Online Video Network sees in the years ahead, and how UGC, syndication and monetizing this content more effectively will affect the Network’s evolution.

Jessica Hawk is director of online video at AP which includes oversight of product development, customer relations and support, technical development and operations relating to AP’s online video products. She works closely with the editorial team that produces AP's web video as well as manages the relationship with MSN, who AP partnered with in 2005 to produce its newest online video product, the ad- supported Online Video Network (OVN). Since the OVN's launch in early 2006, it has grown to include over 1600 affiliates and has just recently added a local video component that enables all members of the Network to layer in their locally-produced video on top of the national and international video AP is offering. Before becoming involved with video, Jessica ran the company's product and project management group in its Technology division.