all about digital content
May, 2009
BBC aims to commission more web-only content
Wed, 05/06/2009 - 19:01 — benzross
(cc) by-nd Tim Loudon/flickr
The BBC's Simon Nelson (controller of multiplatform) has announced the corporation's intention to step up its web-only provision, rather than ploughing money primarily into programme support micro-sites, as has been the case in the past. With the aim of creating more content that 'doesn't need a tv', that means we should be seeing more stand-alone and essentially-interactive propositions.
There's been some great work towards this from the BBC in the past - Endemol's Signs of Life springs immediately to mind - but much of the BBC's content and views come from the obvious contenders: news and programme-support. Building a reputation as somewhere to go for new content that isn't associated with their tv or radio output won't be easy, but in these times the BBC, with its guaranteed revenue, certainly stands to make a big impact both within the UK and around the world.
Michael Grade to give up ITV Chief Executive role
Tue, 05/05/2009 - 13:25 — benzross
(cc) by-sa shaz wildcat/flickr
ITV announced today that before the end of 2009 Michael Grade will step down as Chief Executive, becoming instead non-executive chairman of the group. Whilst not directly on-topic for Digital Content, the move does open the door for a significant indication of ITV's future intentions. Grade perhaps looks a little 'old media' for a company that has its eye firmly set on the expanding video markets in the digital and online spaces. If the next Chief Exec is a new media face (and there's talk of a few Google senior execs being in the picture) it will confirm the important of this sector to the company.
On the other hand, a more traditional media face might represent the notion that ITV will retrench as a solid, traditional media broadcaster and creator, seeking to establish itself firmly as a go-to brand for great content. Albeit one that will push strongly for product placement to feature in its commercial mix. In a sense, it's a little stuck-in-the-middle right now, so some clarity would be a good thing.
Some suggest that he was pushed out simply because his predictions - and his planning - hasn't worked out great for the company. I rather doubt this - and I don't think the City would be happy if this had happened with no names in the hat to replace him. I expect will hear sooner rather than later, if only through 'leaks', so that it isn't up in the air.