Institutional Context of E4

E4 is a subsidiary of the popular Channel 4. It was launched on the 18th of January 2001. It is a 'pay-tv' companion to Channel 4. Therefore only being possible to view via a subscription based agreement, provided by satellite/cable TV providers. E4 itself is aimed at 15-35 age group, which coincides with its name, the 'E' standing for entertainment. It is part of a large portfolio owned by the conglomerate,Channel Four Television Corporation, which is comprised of such channels as: Channel 4, More 4, 4Music etc. E4 and its parent, Channel 4. These channels use synergy to promote similar products, for example, when watching one of the previously mentioned channels, advertisements for shows that are broadcast on a different sister channel are shown. Channel 4 uses its subsidiaries to its advantage in this way, being able to promote various things on various formats/channels. Channel 4, interestingly, was not originally the conglomerate. It began as a subsidiary of the  International Broadcasting Authority (IBA). This was the case until 1993, when it came under control of the Channel Four Television Corporation.

A good example of cross media ownership from E4 would be the combination of the broadcasting of certain television shows, like Misfits, Skins and Beaver Falls etc, and additionally allowing people to play games that are related to these shows. This allows E4 to produce various types of media and link them all together. From this, I can also see the combination of e-media and broadcast media, which is a clear example of convergence, because these two types of media are coming together.

A great example of horizontal integration is displayed here, E4 being a part of it. The Channel Four Television Corporation owns several businesses. Most notably the television channels. It does however, also own the websites associated with its television channels. Despite them being recently abandoned, the corporation previously owned radio stations, such as 4radio and Oneword. Futhermore, it has a large part in the film production of Film4, which is yet another business that the corporation is affiliated with.