Skip to main content
Visual variables enable dynamic visuals for live broadcasts. They allow real-time updates based on external sources or user inputs in the Rundown Editor or Playout.
The variables are scoped to the Visual and thus great to use in designs of Show-specific Visuals, Lower-thirds and other variable graphics which should be updated regularly. ⏯️ You can learn everything about Visual Variables in the Video Guide: How to Use Simple Variables in Visual Radio Graphics

​
Global Station Variables

Unlike standard Visual Variables that apply to a single visual, Global Station Variables ensure station-wide consistency by allowing commonly used elements—such as branding, event schedules, or real-time data—to be updated in one place and automatically applied across all visuals.

​
Create a Visual Variable

​
Data Types

  • Boolean
  • Text – Single-line text
  • Long Text – Multi-line text
  • Options – Predefined list of selectable choices
  • Media Image – Image selection and upload
  • Media Image Upload – Image upload
  • Media Video – Video selection and upload
  • Media Video Upload – Video upload
Media Uploads in Visual Variables For media-based variables, an upload directory can be set. This is a designated folder in the media hub where uploaded files are automatically stored. If not defined, media will be put in the root folder of the station.

​
Visual Variable Types

API Data Source Fetches real-time data from external or internal APIs, such as RSS-newsfeeds. Read more about setting up an API Data Source. User Input Allows manual entry of text or values for on-the-fly updates. The value appears in the visual but is not stored for future use. Database Stores variable values in a database for future reference. Useful for recurring information, such as reporter details or scheduled event. This enables users of the variable to search through existing historical variable values. Music Track Metadata Displays song details, including artist, title, and album.

​
Use a Visual Variable

Visual variables can be assigned to layers in a visual. Every layer type that accepts dynamic data from a variable has its own way of selecting that variable
  • Text Layers: Use the / in the text field or use the Data Selector to link variables to text elements.
  • Image & Video Layers: Select variables in the Properties Settings on the right to dynamically update visuals.
Image Media layers don’t accept visual variables. You should select the Dynamic Media layer.

​
Linking Visual Variables

Variables from one visual can be linked to another. This creates a duplicate of the variable while keeping the original intact. This ensures that multiple visuals can use the same source without manually recreating data. The values of the variables won’t be synced, so changing them in one visual won’t change the value in the others.