ITC Plans Fundamental Reform In Preparation For Digital Age
The Independent Television Commission (ITC) has outlined plans for reform which include a 10% reduction in staff and a 5% cut in discretionary spending, in order to prepare itself for the digital future of TV. The new approach was developed after consultation with staff, and will be implemented between now and June of next year.
“We need to adapt for the digital age,” said Sir Robin Biggam, ITC chairman, “This means simplifying, streamlining and containing the cost of regulation, being more accountable and gaining a much better understanding of new media and the changing marketplace.”
The proposals include an undertaking that content regulation will be streamlined, with more simple requirements for licensees. Operations in the nations and regions are to be stepped up, with more resources fed to key ITV areas.
A dedicated new media team is also to be established to study new media developments and their impact on consumers. Another group is to play a leading role in the move towards the digital switchover.
Audience research and consultation will become “more rigorous” under the new regime, with greater use of citizens’ juries, while a new Viewer Relations Unit will become the first port of call for public enquiries, information requests and complaints.
Yet another new unit, focussed on policy, is to be established to lead the ITC after the publication of the White Paper on Communications (due on 12 December) and through the development of Communications legislation.
As well as the savings made by the job and spending cuts, the ITC is to tighten its belt by closing surplus properties and reducing the amount of engineering research and development undertaken. The Commission has also promised to achieve its aims by strengthening professional resources, implementing better cross-organisational working, taking a more strategic approach with a clearer focus on priorities and enhancing training and development.
Patricia Hodgson, the ITC’s chief executive said, “Regulation must reflect the public mood and evolve with the changing marketplace.”
ITC: 020 7255 3000
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