Channel 4 Analysis
Channel 4 is a publicly owned UK broadcaster but does not receive a share of the licence fee's like the BBC. It's primary purpose is the fulfilment of it's public service remit: "The provision of a broad range of high quality and diverse programming which, in particular: a) demonstrates innovation, experiment and creativity in the form of content and programmes; b) appeals to the tastes and interests of a culturally diverse society; c) makes a significant contribution to meeting the need for the licensed public channels to include programmes of an educational nature and other programmes of educative value; and d) exhibits a distinctive character." Over 300 production companies receive commissions from the channel, a far greater number than any other british broadcaster including the whole of the BBC. There are several channels broadcast alongside the flagship service, E4, More4, FilmFour, and 4Music all of which are now free to air.
In a similar way to the programming, the graphic packaging for the channel is produced by a great number of different studios. "If I were to summarise our creative processes, I'd say this: keep the idea simple, hire the best person for the job, let them get on with it." - Brett Foraker (Creative Director) This creates a diverse range of styles and ideas to satisfy the huge scope of the target audience. The remit, several design guidelines and history of the channel play important roles in keeping a unified appearance to the range of idents. Like BBC One, Channel 4 has has it's own font created and tends to stick with a limited range of colours. The most recognisable feature is the 9 block '4' icon designed by lambie-nairn in 1982. This has become a design icon that has stood the test of time with its core concept left intact even through 30 years of the channels development.
"Channel 4's content changes constantly, but its remit - which stresses creativity, innovation and challenging accepted thinking - does not. We work primarily to the remit and attempt to evolve as the needs of the channel change. This way, we can proceed organically rather than undergo a massive re-branding exercise every time somebody in a suit sneezes." - Brett Foraker (Creative Director)