Flow opens avenue for local producers

Since television's liberalisation in the 1990s, local producers of television content have been seeking an outlet to showcase their skills.

Now, with the advent of new media, Flow is giving producers a chance to capitalise on their talent through its 'Video on Demand' platform.

Production professionals partnering with Flow since its entrance into the market in 2007 have found that the process of airing local content has become easier and more financially rewarding.

Anieph Latchman, executive producer of the new and exciting animation series Cabbie Chronicles, which airs on Flow OnDemand, is one such professional.

Income stream

According to Latchman, he is extremely pleased with the opportunities afforded to his series through his partnership with Flow. "Flow expressed interest right away. They approached us and offered us an income stream from the product through Flow OnDemand. We recognise that because the concept is novel for the Jamaican market and a newbie in programming, income would not be immediately exponential but it's generating revenue and has potential. We are also able to access programme statistics that can assist us with the direction of our programme and guide us in the development of the series. Additionally, we get support from Flow in the form of promotion across their cable platform, affording us exposure not available on other outlets," he explained.

Michael Look Tong, director of Media Services at Flow, recognises the challenges to profitability and distribution for some content creators.

"Distribution and revenue generation from television products has been the greatest challenge for independent producers of content in this commercial era. Flow's cable services provide access to distribution and revenue-generating activities comparable with similar services in advanced industries worldwide," he explained.

Flow's entry into the cable market has also presented opportunities for local residents to air their content free of cost on specialty channels.

Through Flow's public-access television, residents have an opportunity to produce their own content, which is aired on Flow's Cornwall, Middlesex and Surrey community channels. This sees the return of the original vision for cable television, giving communities an opportunity to have their voices heard.

Viewers can look forward to an exciting line-up of locally produced shows on Flow TV, channel 100. They can also check out brand new episodes of Cabbie Chronicles on Flow OnDemand, channel 1000.