International distribution / FIELD NOTES
Distribution metadata: organize facts and localized copy
Connect work IDs, episode order, titles, descriptions, languages and assets before adapting records for each channel.
How should a team structure titles, descriptions and assets for multiple channels?
Start with an accurate description of the content, then adapt it to each receiving field. A metadata sheet is not a keyword stuffing sheet and cannot replace watching the program. Stable IDs preserve identity when display titles change.
Create identifiers independent of titles
Assign IDs to the work, season, episode and individual asset. Record original language, duration, picture version and content type. Keep localized display names separate from stable keys. Give trailers, episodes and behind-the-scenes clips different asset IDs.
- Keep work and asset identifiers
- Define episode ordering
- Record master version and original language
Separate facts from editorial copy
Verify facts such as episode number, duration and credits against records. Review titles and descriptions for tone, spoilers and consistency. Review each language independently and use dedicated localization fields where available. YouTube provides a separate process for translated titles and descriptions.
- Link facts to an approved source
- Maintain character and title terminology
- Match artwork to the description
Worked three-language record
The fictional ID DEMO-S01-E02 stays unchanged while display names become “第二集：门后的信,” “Episode 2: The Letter Behind the Door,” and “第2話 扉の向こうの手紙.” Adapt each synopsis naturally without inventing an ending. Give every language its own editorial version and review state.
- Keep IDs independent of translations
- Label demo content as fictional
- Record a reviewer for each language
Verify the published result
Check required fields, length constraints and input format with the receiver before importing. After publication, inspect ordering, language, line breaks, artwork and visibility. Updating a spreadsheet is not confirmation that the live page changed; record the URL and verification time.
- Look for missing or truncated fields
- Open the actual release page
- Log live URLs and revisions
Before you hand over the work
- Stable IDs outlast display titles.
- Fact checking and copy review are separate tasks.
- Reconcile the sheet with the published page.
Demonstration projects and examples illustrate working methods. Follow the receiving party’s specifications and the scope agreed for your project.