Channel 4 Case Study

Channel 4



- Channel 4 is publicly owned yet commercially-funded. This means that they act in the best interest of the public but still have adverts and sponsorship in order to gain money.
- They do not receive any public funding
- Unlike other broadcasters (such as ITV) they are not shareholder owned. This means they act in the interests of the audience rather than trying to please shareholders in order to receive money.
- Channel 4 is independent from the Government, so are not controlled too much about what they show (unlike the BBC.)
- It has a remit to be innovative, experimental and distinctive, therefore they show slightly edgier and controversial shows that most other channels.
- It is governed by a board who are responsible for ensuring that Channel 4 fulfils its remit and delivers its financial responsibilities.
- It is a conglomerate- they produce television, film and digital media.
- As well as their main channel, they offer E4, More4, Film4 and 4Music. This is so that they have a large and diverse audience.
- They own online activities such as the Channel 4 website and video-on-demand servive 4oD.
- They invest heavily in the UK's creative economy including investment in training and talent development.
- Channel 4 distribute a wide range of shows from soaps to documentaries to comedies. This is so that they have shows to suit every available viewer and therefore get a bigger audience.
- The channel 4 logo is quite simple. It is monotone and made up of just straight lines. This is both so that it can stand out and not be gender or age specific.
- The E4 logo isn't quite so plain. The corners have been rounded off to make it look less boring. It could also signify that E4 isn't as straight-forward and regimented as the main Channel 4. The colour purple is used which is a fun colour and is suited to both boys and girls.
- Channel 4 distributes reality shows such as 'Made in Chelsea' on E4 as they are what the audience wants to see. Made in Chelsea includes lots of fashion and music which would appeal to Channel 4's target audience (18-35 year olds.) The idea of scripted reality shows is quite unique and individual which would fit with what Channel 4 are trying to achieve. The reality aspect of the show would appeal to the target audience as they would find it exciting to know more about the lives of people living a different lifestyle to them.

http://www.channel4.com/info/corporate/about