Channel 4 Ident

This ident is entertainment-led as it uses a flagship programme to advertise the channel. This offers a great opportunity as when viewers see The Simpsons they will begin to automatically associate it with Channel 4, thus advertising the channel. It is not obvious that this footage is an ident, which could be seen as either positive or negative. Using The Simpsons appeals to a large audience and therefore attracts alot of attention and effectively persuades the viewer to stay on the channel.

However for non-simpsons fans it could demand a change of channel without hesitation, therefore the purpose of the ident would not have been fulfilled as it is not until the end that the reason for the animation is revealed. Although the ident offers humour and fun to be represented on behalf of the channel, it relies upon the patience and specific interest of the viewer due to its lengthy duration. This could quickly make the viewer bored after watching this ident a few times as it is then predictable.

However, it is not effected by any usual limitations of a viewers television resolution, aspect ratio or transmission system, allowing it to be properly viewed by everyone. Also the audio effects used in the ident make it possible for non-visual viewers to still understand what is going on.
It is likely that this clip is shown on weekday evenings and late afternoons due to its comedic attitude. It could also be shown on saturday/sunday mornings when The Simpsons is likely to be screened.