Having made its seven day schedule data available on the web in TV-Anytime format, the BBC is running a competition for developers and designers to come up with interesting applications.

The idea is part of the BBC backstage prototype initiative to foster innovation as part of a new spirit of glasnost. The BBC says it is committed to using open standards that will enable users to find and repurpose BBC content in more flexible ways.

Suggested applications include: combining schedules with other web services; introducing a social element, such as rating or voting; or creating alerting systems.

The television programme schedule data is being made available on a trial basis for non-commercial use. The winner of the competition, which is only open to UK residents, will receive a rackmount server.

backstage.bbc.co.uk
www.tv-anytime.org