BBC - Commissioning - HD at the BBC

HD commissioning is led by the relevant genre team, working with the Head of BBC HD.

The Head of BBC HD sets the strategy and the short-term development priorities for HD delivery in each genre, working with the relevant commissioners and cross-referencing with channel strategies.

The BBC now operates two HD channels – BBC One HD which is a simulcast of the BBC One schedule in HD, and BBC HD which showcases in HD programmes made in HD from across the BBC channel portfolio.  These may be simulcast or time-shifted.

HD represents the new standard for quality television, and is being taken up rapidly by audiences.  For these reasons, from April 2011, all network programmes made for the BBC are expected to be delivered in High Definition. Any concerns about HD delivery should be discussed as part of the commissioning process, with any perceived production challenges shared at that point.

Current tariffs for independent productions for the BBC have been recently reviewed and reflect the costs of HD, which have fallen very substantially as HD has become mainstream.  The BBC provides support in a variety of forms to producers working in HD - including advice on equipment, workflows and cost management, and training.   If you require help, please indicate this to your commissioning contacts, or contact the Executive Producer, BBC HD, directly. Find out more information on HD production and delivery requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

From when are you expecting HD delivery?

HD is the standard delivery format for new BBC network commissions, and from April 2011, we will expect all network programmes to be delivered in High Definition. You should contact your Business Affairs Manager for any HD advice on specific titles.

What kinds of programmes will you not consider for HD delivery?

There are no programmes for which we would absolutely rule out HD delivery. But in some cases we will advise that we do not consider that HD delivery will necessarily enhance the programme significantly for audiences, and therefore a particular project is not a priority for us. Programmes shown on BBC HD need to contain at least 75% HD material.

What about archive content?

Depending on the balance of material within the programme, archive material may fall into the 25% non-HD content. There are also creative ways of addressing some archive material or the needs which might trigger its use which can allow for 75% HD material within a programme.

What about sound on HD programmes?

Some of our HD programmes do deliver with 5.1 surround sound. But we also take deliveries in stereo and we are working on wrap-around sound alternatives. Sound requirements will be confirmed for individual projects through the commissioning process.

Does the BBC have an approved HD camera list?

You can find details of camera requirements for HD programmes on the HD Production & Delivery page.

Will it cost me more to deliver in HD?

Costs for HD are are falling rapidly as SD equipment becomes obsolete and facilities are upgraded.  We are happy to help advise on cost-management.

Will I need to create an SD version as well?

Generally when the BBC takes HD delivery we will not require an SD version too. Detailed delivery requirements will be attached to the confirmation of any commission from the BBC. More information on HD Delivery formats is available on the BBC's Delivering Quality site in the Summary of Delivery Formats.