If you are a content owner or broadcaster, you know how important it is to keep your targeted viewers engaged. With multiple options, it becomes more difficult for publishers to keep viewers interested. The same is a scenario with the FAST channel platform which has revolutionized the way content is delivered and consumed.
FAST channel has become the best alternative to traditional cable and satellite, providing viewers with the added benefit of free access, supported by ad revenue. If you’re looking to capitalize on this growing trend, launching and monetizing your own FAST channel platform could be your ticket to success. Here’s how to get started.
Benefits of Launching Your Own FAST Channel Platform
In 2023, entertainment and scripted TV genres dominated the European FAST market, with 53 and 68 channels respectively. IP channels have the highest channels, while movies and sports have the most single-genre channels on FAST services. This number proves that the FAST channel platform is a new real-time way to connect with the audience.
Launching and monetizing a FAST channel can be a game changer for businesses looking to tap into the growing demand for streaming content. Let’s dive into more benefits to know why the FAST Channel TV app is the best option to invest in:
Revenue Generation Through Ads
One of the primary advantages of a FAST channel is the ability to monetize your content through ad revenue. The FAST TV market is forecasted to reach around 17 billion U.S. dollars by 2029.
Roku channel has the largest service with 3.4 billion dollars. Pluto TV and Samsung TV Plus followed in the ranking, generating half as much as The Raku Channel.
Unlike subscription-based models, FAST channels generate income by displaying ads before, during, or after content. This model opens up a steady stream of revenue without the need for viewers to pay for access, making it more appealing to a broader audience.
Wide Audience Reach
FAST channels provide free access to content, which significantly broadens your potential audience. Viewers who may not want to commit to subscription services are more likely to tune in to a free, ad-supported platform. This accessibility allows your content to reach a global audience, breaking down geographical and financial barriers.
Cost-Effective Launch
Launching a FAST channel is relatively cost-effective, especially when compared to traditional broadcasting or subscription streaming services.
With the right platform, you can set up your channel without needing to invest heavily in infrastructure or technical expertise. This low entry cost makes it an attractive option for content creators and media companies looking to expand their reach.
Flexibility in Content Management
FAST channel platforms often come with user-friendly tools that make content management easy. Features like drag-and-drop scheduling, auto-generated Electronic Program Guides (EPG), and seamless integration of live and on-demand content give you complete control over your channel without requiring extensive technical knowledge.
Enhanced Viewer Experience
With advanced streaming technologies like HLS (HTTP Live Streaming) and CDN (Content Delivery Network) integration, your FAST channel can offer a smooth, high-quality viewing experience. These technologies ensure that your content is delivered efficiently, with minimal buffering and optimal playback quality, even during live broadcasts.
Scalability
As your channel grows, FAST platforms offer the flexibility to scale your operations effortlessly. Whether you’re adding more content, expanding to multiple channels, or increasing storage, FAST platforms are designed to grow with your needs, ensuring that you can continue to meet audience demand without major disruptions.
Robust Content Protection
Protecting your content is crucial, and FAST channels often come equipped with advanced security features like multi-DRM (Digital Rights Management) support and measures to prevent screen recording. These protections help safeguard your intellectual property, ensuring that your content is only accessible to authorized viewers.
Data-Driven Insights
FAST platforms typically offer comprehensive analytics and reporting tools, giving you valuable insights into viewer behavior and engagement. These insights can inform your content strategy, ad placement, and overall channel management, helping you optimize your platform for maximum impact and revenue.
Competitive Edge
By launching your FAST channel, you position yourself at the forefront of the digital streaming revolution. With major players like Pluto TV, Tubi, and Samsung TV+ leading the charge, having your own FAST channel allows you to compete in this growing market, providing a unique opportunity to establish your brand and grow your audience.
Easy Integration of Live Events
Integrating live events into your programming schedule can be a powerful way to engage your audience. FAST platforms make it easy to blend live events with on-demand content, offering a dynamic and interactive viewing experience that keeps viewers coming back.
How to Launch Your FAST Channel Platform?
Are you an enthusiast who is looking to launch your FAST channel platform? Don’t know how to start? Here is a guide on how to launch your platform with ease.
Content
“Content is King”
The old phrase is as relevant as ever. The main aim of launching a channel must be content that users want to watch. With 100+ channels FAST platforms must be developed to address the most thought-genres including sports, news, and more. The more content your channels have the more it engages viewers.
It’s estimated that a successful FAST channel platform must have at least 150 hours of refreshing and original programs helping to avoid content fatigue.
You can get a 3rd-party content license or build your existing library. Once your content library is ready, it’s time to schedule your FAST channel platform.
Programming
Known Broadcast TV channels schedule the most FAST channels these days. Build micro-level programming blocks around specific dayparts and genres. Each dayparts helps to target the different audiences and demographics. The average minute differs during the day and on weekends.
You can go ahead with minute-by-minute planning later on by following the below points:
- What to feature and when?
- How often do ads come and when?
- How often will the program be shown in a week/month?
Schedule a strategy that helps you to attract and retain the right audience with the right content. You can follow proven tactics that are FAST and are from the Broadcast world:
- Schedule a lesser-popular program between tentpoles.
- Air promos to bridge the gap between the two programs.
- Attract more viewers with counterprogramming from other programming.
- Strip a running series at a specific time.
- Fire back-to-back series episodes.
Create magic that happens behind the curtains to make the viewer’s experience the best. Ensure that the ad markers are according to the ad load strategy and requirements of the wider platform and channel.
Channel Creation
When it comes to scheduling a channel, technology plays a vital role.
You can use the TV scheduling tools or existing scheduler from the tech vendors if you’re new to it. Many FAST enablers provide scheduler tools, including the OTT cloud SaaS, from pure players (Frequency, Wurl), and the Broadcast industry (Bee, Red, Amagi, Harmonic).
These tools come with advanced features that help to automate the scheduling process. Steps to follow for end-to-end workflow:
- Origin
- Playout
- Encoding
- Scheduling
- Data Analytics
- Monetization
- Overlay graphics
- Assets and metadata ingestion
They will help to schedule EPG (Electronic Press Guide) and video feed as per the platform specifications.
You are all set to go as your FAST channel platform is ready to monetize.
Top Tips to Monetize Your FAST Channel Platform
To effectively monetize your FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channel platform, consider the following strategies:
Ad Insertion
Integrate ad breaks into your programming. Use tools that simplify the process of scheduling ads without disrupting the viewer experience. Ensure that the ads are relevant and high-quality to maintain viewer engagement.
Diverse Ad Formats
Explore various ad formats such as overlays and in-content ads, which can enhance viewer interaction and increase CPM (Cost Per Mille) rates through targeted advertising.
Subscription Models
Implement subscription options for ad-free viewing. This can attract users who love break-free content and can provide a steady revenue stream alongside ad revenue.
Content Syndication and Partnerships
Form syndication deals and revenue-sharing arrangements with other content providers. This not only diversifies income but also expands your audience reach.
Download-to-rent and Electronic Sell-Through
Offer viewers the option to rent or purchase specific shows or movies featured on your channel. This can generate additional one-time revenue and cater to users who may want to own content.
Data-Driven Insights
Utilize analytics to understand viewer behavior and preferences. This data can inform programming decisions, optimize ad placements, and enhance user engagement, ultimately driving higher revenue.
Strategic Distribution
Distribute your FAST channel across multiple platforms, including your own OTT (Over-The-Top) service and third-party platforms. This broadens your audience base and maximizes ad inventory.
Enhanced Personalization
Leverage first-party data to personalize content and advertisements. Tailoring the viewing experience can improve retention rates and attract advertisers looking for targeted audiences.
Community Engagement
Use social media and community management to engage with your audience. This can build a loyal viewer base and enhance brand visibility, which is attractive to advertisers
Conclusion
Launching and monetizing a FAST TV app presents a significant opportunity for content creators and distributors. By focusing on quality content, choosing the right technology partners, implementing effective ad strategies, optimizing viewer experiences, and continuously analyzing performance, you can create a successful FAST channel that not only attracts viewers but also generates sustainable revenue. Embrace the potential of FAST channels and position your brand for success in the evolving streaming landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary business model behind the FAST channel platform?
The primary business model for the FAST channel platform is based on providing free content to viewers, who, in turn, agree to view advertisements.
How does advertising work within FAST channels?
In FAST channels, advertising is integrated into the viewing experience through various formats, including pre-roll, mid-roll, and post-roll ads. Advertisements are grouped into ad breaks, often referred to as ad podding, where multiple ads are played back-to-back.
What is ad inventory in the context of FAST platforms?
Ad inventory refers to the total amount of space available for advertisements at any given time on a platform.
How is ad load determined on FAST channels?
Ad load varies by platform and channel, influenced by factors such as program length, content type, and local regulations.
What are the two main monetization models for FAST platforms?
The two main monetization models are:
- Revenue Share Model
- Inventory Share Model
What technology is used for ad insertion in FAST channels?
FAST channels leverage Server-Side Ad Insertion (SSAI) technology to seamlessly insert or replace advertisements in video streams. This technology ensures a smooth viewing experience by dynamically inserting ads based on audience segmentation.
How can FAST channels ensure a positive ad experience for viewers?
To maintain viewer satisfaction, FAST channels must balance ad load with content quality. Monitoring viewer feedback and Net Promoter Scores can help channels adjust their ad strategies to ensure a more enjoyable viewing experience compared to traditional TV.
What are some innovative ad formats being explored in FAST channels?
Beyond traditional in-stream video ads, FAST channel platforms are experimenting with innovative ad formats such as dynamic overlays, branded ad slates, split-screen ads, and sponsorships, enhancing viewer engagement & interaction.