While we're not yet sure what Ducard will be doing over at Google (if he is, in fact, heading there), paidContent says that he would be working on the search giant's programming strategy. Google, however, declined to comment on the hire wholesale, telling us: "Unfortunately, we don't comment on rumor or speculation." So stay tuned on that front.
We've seen evidence of Google gunning for more original content creation of late with its acquisition of Widevine, an on-demand video service known for its multiplatform DRM and adaptive streaming technologies. It's also rumored that Google-owned YouTube will be acquiring web vide production company, New Next Networks (which, if the deal comes to fruition, would mark the first time YouTube has ever created original content).
AOL, for its part, has been quite clear about its plans to ramp up its content creation plan. According to Tubefilter, new hire Lawson will oversee AOL Studios, AOL Video hub, AOL.com and deals with third-party production companies. She will also bring with her Landline TV, which produces the popular Kids Reenact series.
AOL has also been on an acquisitions tear of late, picking up online video service 5min Media as well as video creation and distribution platform StudioNow.
We recently learned that Americans are now spending as many hours online as they do in front of their TV screens, so it will be interesting to see how the web continues to flourish as a location for entertainment/news this coming year as both Google and AOL's plans take shape.