Cobroadcasting

Cobroadcasting is the coordinated production and distribution of audiovisual content by two or more broadcasting organizations that share production responsibilities, scheduling, and rights. The arrangement aims to reach wider audiences, improve resource efficiency, and widen access to content by pooling expertise, facilities, and distribution channels.

It differs from simulcasting and syndication. Simulcasting generally refers to airing the same program at the same time on multiple channels, often with separate production teams; cobroadcasting emphasizes collaborative creation and joint ownership of the broadcast. Syndication typically involves content created by one party being licensed to other outlets for independent broadcast, rather than shared production.

In practice, cobroadcasting can take the form of joint live coverage of events, cross-border partnerships between public broadcasters, or co-produced series that are distributed by multiple networks. Common use cases include live news coverage, cultural programming, and emergency information dissemination. The approach may also extend to online platforms, with cross-posted or simulcast content across broadcast and streaming outlets.

Successful cobroadcasting requires formal agreements specifying rights, revenue sharing, editorial control, access to feeds, time synchronization, and backup plans. It involves negotiating licensing for reuse across platforms, compliance with regulatory rules, and protection of brand and logo usage. Technical infrastructure typically includes shared feeds, reliable distribution links (satellite or IP), quality control, and standard metadata and watermarking.

Benefits include broader audience reach, shared production costs, and enhanced resilience. Challenges involve coordinating schedules across partners, maintaining consistent branding and editorial standards, resolving disagreements over control and revenue, and navigating complex rights and regulatory requirements.