Sargent-Disc
We take the drama out of production
Channel 4 Payroll Service
Summary
Sargent-Disc created a bespoke payroll service to meet Channel 4's complex repeat and residual payment requirements. We look at how the service was created and implemented and the results it has given Channel 4.
Sargent-Disc provide Channel 4 with a bespoke artists managed payroll service.
Channel 4 Television Corporation is a television broadcaster with a broad portfolio across film, television and music including E4, Film4, More4, 4Music and 4oD. As a major investor in the UK's creative economy Channel 4 commissions content from the independent production sector and invests in training and talent development throughout the film and television industry.
Early in 2013, Channel 4 was seeking a proactive partner to create and manage a flexible solution to their complex repeat and residual payment requirements. Their existing reporting system was not able to meet the demands of the new RTI (Real Time Information) changes to the PAYE system set out by HMRC. They required an RTI ready payroll solution that satisfied all statutory reporting obligations and could process contributor payments subject to NI deductions and summarise all payments calculated.
Channel 4 was looking to deliver these requirements with a guarantee of robust service levels. They were seeking to work with a company that demonstrated initiative and enthusiasm and who would proactively support the on-going development of the project and build plans for the future.
Sargent-Disc was approached by Channel 4 to tender for the contract and their services chosen. Sargent-Disc created a bespoke software infrastructure to provide Channel 4 with a comprehensive residual payroll service. The solution enabled talent to be paid in a range of currencies across the globe, and included a built in approval process for ease and efficiency.
Sargent-Disc's software solution allowed Channel 4 to move from paper to online processing and reporting by incorporating SD Online, the secure and confidential RTI ready platform which integrates payroll, residual and royalty payment services. SD Online delivered advanced payroll solutions for Channel 4 which could be accessed by artists and agents alike, from anywhere in the world, 24/7, via a range of devices including Apple and Android phones. See Figure 1.
Figure 1: SD Online Data Flow Diagram
SD Online also provides Channel 4 with a comprehensive reporting system which includes payslips, payment histories and detailed management reports. The tailored and flexible solution allows for reports to be sorted and filtered to meet different needs.
Sargent-Disc helped to project manage the smooth transition and a proactive approach with Channel 4 ensured the solution came in on budget and on time. Sargent-Disc's dedicated team also continued to make improvements after the solution had gone live to ensure it was user-friendly and as efficient as possible.
Channel 4 has been RTI ready since September 2013. Since implementing Sargent-Disc's service solution, Channel 4 has benefitted from a clear workflow of information between all Channel 4 finance and talent systems resulting in more accurate reporting. Management information is now easily accessible and reports are clear and concise.
Since going live with SD Online, Channel 4 has seen a reduction in the number of queries they receive, and communication with contributors has been reduced to a minimum due to the service running smoothly and efficiently.
"Channel 4 have enjoyed working with Sargent-Disc from the start. Sargent-Disc have been very quick to respond to all of our requests and have challenged where appropriate and as a consequence given Channel 4 a better solution.
They have a great work ethic, are great to work with and continue to provide us with a great service and value." - Jane Edison, Project Manager at Channel 4.
For more information about our payroll and residual services, please click here or contact payroll@sargent-disc.com
