Comprehensive Checklist for Launching an OTT FAST Channel

 

This detailed checklist outlines all the actionable steps and outcomes from each of “OTT FAST Guide – How to Launch a FAST Channel and Empire in 30 Days”. It’s designed to be easy to follow, with clear, specific steps that anyone, from a high school senior to a novice entrepreneur, can complete. To get the most out of this checklist, refer to the relevant chapters in the book for further insights and explanations.

 

1: The Big Idea

1. Define Your OTT Channel’s Concept

   • Decide on your channel's niche (e.g., fitness, sports, entertainment).

   • Identify your target audience (e.g., age group, interests).

   • Decide if your content will be live, on-demand, or both.

2. Establish a Product or Service Strategy

   • Determine if your content is the product (e.g., a show) or if your service (e.g., streaming platform) is the product.

   • Write down your revenue goals (monthly, annually).

   • Research similar OTT channels for market comparison.

 

2: Business Foundation

1. Set Up a Legal Business Structure

   • Register your business as an LLC, S-Corp, or Corporation.

   • Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number).

2. Create a Business Bank Account

   • Open a separate bank account for your OTT business.

   • Set up a business credit card for expenses.

3. Establish Key Legal Agreements

   • Draft Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) and Confidentiality Agreements.

   • Secure Work-for-Hire agreements for content creators and freelancers.

4. Register Intellectual Property (IP)

   • Register trademarks for your channel name and logo.

   • Secure copyrights for original content.

 

3: Technology Setup

1. Get a Domain Name

   • Use domain search tools to find and purchase a website domain (e.g., GoDaddy, Namecheap).

2. Set Up a Website

   • Create a WordPress site or hire a developer.

   • Install SSL for security and trust.

   • Set up essential pages (Home, About, Contact).

3. Build an App (Optional)

   • Decide whether to build an app or use a third-party app builder (e.g., Uscreen).

   • Research app costs and requirements.

 

4: Content Licensing and Acquisition

1. Secure Content for Your Channel

   • Approach content creators, filmmakers, or studios to license content.

   • Draft and sign licensing agreements.

   • Determine if you need exclusive or non-exclusive content.

2. Create Original Content

   • Plan and produce original shows or movies.

   • Secure talent (e.g., actors, hosts).

   • Set up filming locations and production schedules.

 

5: Monetization Strategy

1. Choose Your Monetization Model

   • Decide on subscription (SVOD), ad-supported (AVOD), pay-per-view (TVOD), or hybrid models.

   • Set pricing tiers for subscriptions (e.g., basic, premium).

2. Set Up Payment Systems

   • Choose a payment gateway (e.g., Stripe, PayPal).

   • Integrate payment options on your website or app.

 

6: Marketing and Promotion

1. Develop a Marketing Plan

   • Set up social media accounts (Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, etc.).

   • Plan content marketing (blogs, newsletters, social posts).

   • Create a content calendar for promotions.

2. Run Paid Ads

   • Set a budget for Facebook, Instagram, or Google Ads.

   • Target your ads to your specific audience demographics.

3. Influencer and Affiliate Marketing

   • Reach out to influencers in your niche for collaborations.

   • Set up an affiliate marketing program with commissions for referrals.

 

7: Launching the OTT Platform

1. Prepare for Launch

   • Conduct a soft launch with a limited audience to test the platform.

   • Test all functionalities (e.g., video streaming, payments, user interface).

2. Go Live

   • Announce the official launch on social media and through email campaigns.

   • Host a live event (optional) to generate buzz.

   • Monitor the platform for any technical issues.

 

8: Retaining Subscribers and Reducing Churn

1. Personalize the User Experience

   • Implement AI-powered content recommendations.

   • Create personalized email campaigns for subscribers.

2. Offer Incentives to Stay

   • Offer discounts or free trials for at-risk subscribers.

   • Provide exclusive content or behind-the-scenes access for premium subscribers.

3. Monitor Subscriber Churn Rate

   • Track monthly churn rate and identify reasons for cancellation.

   • Send feedback surveys to exiting subscribers.

 

9: Expanding Internationally

1. Research New Markets

   • Identify which countries or regions have growth potential.

   • Check legal and licensing requirements for content in international markets.

2. Localize Your Platform

   • Add subtitles or dubs for new markets.

   • Adjust pricing for different currencies.

   • Tailor marketing strategies for cultural relevance.

 

10: Analytics and Tracking Performance

1. Set Up Analytics Tools

   • Use Google Analytics, Mixpanel, or Conviva to track website/app performance.

   • Set up tracking for key metrics: Monthly Active Users (MAU), Average Watch Time (AWT), and Retention Rate.

2. Monitor Engagement and Revenue

   • Track which content is most popular and drives engagement.

   • Use data to identify opportunities for upselling or content licensing.

 

11: Improving User Experience

1. Test and Refine User Interface (UI)

   • Regularly test the UI on different devices (mobile, desktop, smart TVs).

   • Implement A/B testing for user navigation and design updates.

2. Optimize Video Streaming Quality

   • Ensure you use adaptive bitrate streaming to minimize buffering.

   • Regularly monitor server load times and video quality.

 

12: Growing Through Strategic Partnerships

1. Content and Distribution Partnerships

   • Approach telecom companies and ISPs for bundling opportunities.

   • Secure partnerships with smart TV and streaming device manufacturers (Roku, Amazon Fire TV).

2. Marketing and Affiliate Partnerships

   • Collaborate with influencers or complementary brands.

   • Establish affiliate marketing agreements with blogs, websites, or influencers.

 

13: Adapting to Emerging Trends

1. Stay Updated on Industry Trends

   • Keep up with new technologies like 5G, AI, and blockchain.

   • Explore interactive content or virtual reality (VR) for future innovations.

2. Experiment with New Content Formats

   • Test new content types (e.g., interactive content, live streaming events).

   • Incorporate short-form or mobile-first content to reach younger audiences.

 

14: Long-Term Scaling Strategies

1. Diversify Revenue Streams

   • Explore opportunities for merchandising, licensing content, or syndicating shows.

   • Offer premium features or in-app purchases for exclusive content.

2. Invest in Original Content Production

   • Plan a budget for producing exclusive content that draws in new subscribers.

   • Partner with filmmakers or creators to expand your content library.

 

15: Community Engagement

1. Create a Strong Community Around Your Platform

   • Introduce user reviews, comments, and ratings on content.

   • Host watch parties or interactive events to engage viewers.

2. Leverage Social Features

   • Allow users to share their favorite content on social media.

   • Encourage discussions around popular shows or live events.

 

Summary of Actions

• Conceptualize your OTT channel idea.

• Legally structure your business.

• Build your platform (website, app, or both).

• Acquire and license content.

• Choose a monetization strategy and set up payment systems.

• Develop and implement marketing strategies to attract subscribers.

• Launch and continually monitor your platform’s performance.

• Use analytics to refine the user experience.

• Expand internationally and through partnerships.

• Adapt to trends and continuously innovate with new content and technology.

• Grow your community through engagement and retention strategies.

By following these clear, actionable steps, you can successfully launch, scale, and sustain your OTT FAST channel while adapting to new challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving digital media landscape.

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