Restructuring / Turnaround Strategies Case Study

British Broadcasting Corporation: Grim Future Ahead?

Abstract:
The British Broadcasting Corporation, once the pioneer in the broadcasting industry took a step-down in the wake of intense competition and technological change. BBC’s licencing practice was subject to fierce debate among the public as well as among politicians. Deregulation of the broadcasting industry opened the gates to a number of competitors which shook BBC’s position as the No: 1 broadcaster in the world. The technology shift from analog to digital also threw up new challenges to BBC. Decreasing viewership along with its outdated business model drew blood from BBC bottom line. This case discusses the problems that BBC faced in the 21st century and also the initiatives taken by BBC to fight back the competition.

Pedagogical Objectives:

• To discuss the reasons behind BBC’s downfall.
• To discuss the technological changes that happened in the UK broadcast industry.

Keywords : BBC; Royal charter; Technology; CNN; Restructuring / Turnaround Strategies Case Study; CableTV; Licence fee