systems and methods for optimizing resource utilization of an automated content recognition system by delaying the identification of certain large quantities of media cue data are disclosed . the delayed identification of the media may be for the purpose of , for example , generating usage statistics or other non - time critical work flow , among other non - real - time uses . in addition , real - time identification of a certain subset of media cue data is performed for the purposes of video program substitution , interactive television opportunities or other time - specific events .