What are the best strategies for a video content owner or distributor to expand the options for delivering their content as linear TV channels?

By offering a range of levels that cater to different audiences, you can build a TV channel service that appeals to a broad range of users. With the right mix of programming, advertising, and personalization options, you can create a service that keeps viewers coming back for more.

Setting up an Ad-Supported Model for Free (FAST)

The first level of your TV channel service should be an ad-supported model for free (FAST). This is a common model for many streaming services, as it allows users to access content without paying a fee. In this model, you can earn revenue through advertisements that are displayed before, during, or after the content is streamed.

To set up a FAST model, you'll need to have agreements in place with advertisers who are willing to pay to display their ads on your service. You'll also need to have a way to track viewership data so that you can provide advertisers with metrics on the number of viewers who are seeing their ads.

If you are comfortable with relying on a streaming platform or a range of devices, you can consider using external platforms to launch your FAST TV channel more easily.

Offering a Premium Service with No Advertisements

The second level of your TV channel service should be a premium service that offers users an ad-free experience. This level will appeal to viewers who are willing to pay a fee to access content without interruptions. To set up this level, you'll need to offer a subscription service that users can sign up for.

Consider offering exclusive content that can only be accessed by premium subscribers to incentivize sign-ups.

Having your own website and/or native app (on Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, etc) is highly recommended for this level.

Curated Thematic TV Channels

The third level of your TV channel service should be personalized TV channels created by yourself on different topics (eg: children, sci-fi, Christmas, etc). This level will appeal to content creators who want to offer their programming to viewers in a unique way. To set up this level, you'll need to have tools to create subchannels that are tailored to their content.

Consider having analytics tools that you can use to track viewership data and engagement metrics per channel. This will help you refine your programming and create more targeted content for yout viewers.

Having your own website and/or native app (on Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, etc) is mandatory for this level.

Growth Hacking techniaues: What are the best strategies for a video content owner or distributor to expand the options for delivering their content as linear TV channels

Customized TV Channels by Renowned Curators or Influencers

The fourth level of your TV channel service should be customized TV channels curated by well-known individuals in the industry. This level will appeal to viewers who trust the taste of these influencers and want to discover new content based on their recommendations. To set up this level, you'll need to establish relationships with these curators and provide them with the tools to create their own channels.

Consider offering a revenue-sharing model that compensates curators based on the viewership of their channels. This will incentivize them to create high-quality programming that will appeal to their followers.

Having your own website and/or native app (on Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, etc) but also a dashboard for your curators are mandatory for this level.

Customizable TV Channels by the Audience/Viewers

The fifth level of your TV channel service should be customizable TV channels that allow viewers to curate their own programming. This level will appeal to viewers who want to create their own viewing experiences based on their interests. To set up this level, you'll need to provide a platform that allows viewers to select the content they want to watch and create their own channels.

Consider offering social features that allow viewers to share their custom channels with their friends and followers. This will help to drive engagement and attract new viewers to your service.

Having your own website and/or native app (on Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, etc) but also a simplified UI to create customizable channels are mandatory for this level.

Article written by
Sylvain Corvaisier