Discussion of performance measures in public service broadcasting

Measuring the value of a public service broadcaster (such as the BBC) is particularly pertinent today given the growing pressures on public service broadcasting. The opportunities offered by digital technologies, increasing demands for accountability, and the upcoming UK Charter Review have all brought public service broadcasting into scrutiny. However, the complexities of measuring the service delivered to the public are immense. First, there are the challenges in defining and meeting the expectations of the public as consumers, and as citizens. These challenges are then multiplied when considering the full range of expectations and requirements imposed on a public service broadcaster by their diverse set of other stakeholders (ranging from regulators to independent producers). This article discusses some of these challenges and provides suggestions as to the measures and approaches to be considered.