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Television Program Diversity and Inclusion Audit Checklist

A comprehensive checklist for auditing diversity and inclusion in television programming, ensuring representation across all aspects of content creation and production.

Television Program Diversity and Inclusion Audit Checklist

by: audit-now
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About This Checklist

In today's evolving media landscape, ensuring diversity and inclusion in television programming is not just a moral imperative but also a key factor in audience engagement and social responsibility. This Television Program Diversity and Inclusion Audit Checklist is an essential tool for content creators, network executives, and diversity officers to evaluate and improve representation across all aspects of programming. By regularly implementing this checklist, broadcasters can enhance the diversity of voices, perspectives, and stories in their content, fostering a more inclusive media environment and connecting with a broader audience.

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Industry

Media and Entertainment

Standard

Media Diversity and Inclusion Standards

Workspaces

Television Studios

Occupations

Diversity and Inclusion Officer
Content Creator
Network Executive
Casting Director
Program Research Analyst
1
Does the program feature a diverse range of characters in terms of race, gender, and sexuality?

Select 'PASS' if diversity is evident, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To ensure representation across different demographics.
2
Is the storytelling inclusive of various cultures and experiences?

Select 'PASS' if storytelling is inclusive, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To evaluate the inclusivity of narratives.
3
Does the program accurately portray different cultures?

Select 'PASS' if cultural accuracy is maintained, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To prevent cultural appropriation and misrepresentation.
4
Is the production staff diverse in terms of gender, race, and background?

Select 'PASS' if the staff is diverse, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To ensure diverse perspectives in production.
5
Does the program engage with a diverse audience through its themes and messaging?

Select 'PASS' if the program engages a diverse audience, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To assess how well the program resonates with different audience segments.
6
Are marginalized groups represented in the program's cast and crew?

Select 'PASS' if marginalized groups are represented, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To ensure inclusivity and representation of marginalized communities.
7
Is the content sensitive to cultural and social issues?

Select 'PASS' if the content is sensitive, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To evaluate the program's awareness of cultural sensitivities.
8
Is there a mechanism in place for audience feedback on representation?

Select 'PASS' if a feedback mechanism exists, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To facilitate continuous improvement based on viewer feedback.
9
Are cultural depictions in the program authentic and respectful?

Select 'PASS' if cultural depictions are authentic, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To ensure accurate representation of cultural elements.
10
Does the program incorporate diverse storytelling perspectives?

Select 'PASS' if diverse perspectives are included, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To promote varied viewpoints in narrative construction.
11
Is the local community represented in the program's content?

Select 'PASS' if the local community is represented, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To reflect the realities and experiences of the local audience.
12
Were cultural consultants involved in the production process?

Select 'PASS' if cultural consultants were involved, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To ensure cultural accuracy and sensitivity.
13
Does the program feature a balanced representation of genders among characters?

Select 'PASS' if gender representation is balanced, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To promote gender equality and representation.
14
Is there a diversity of ages represented in the program's characters?

Select 'PASS' if age diversity is present, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To ensure representation of different age groups.
15
Are characters with disabilities represented in the program?

Select 'PASS' if characters with disabilities are included, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To promote awareness and inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
16
Does the program include characters who speak different languages or dialects?

Select 'PASS' if language representation is evident, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To reflect linguistic diversity and authenticity.
17
Does the program represent characters from varying socioeconomic backgrounds?

Select 'PASS' if socioeconomic diversity is evident, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To ensure a wide spectrum of socioeconomic representation.
18
Does the program include stories that highlight various cultural experiences?

Select 'PASS' if cultural stories are included, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures.
19
Are mental health issues represented in a sensitive and accurate manner?

Select 'PASS' if mental health issues are handled appropriately, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To ensure responsible portrayal of mental health topics.
20
Does the program depict historical events and figures accurately?

Select 'PASS' if historical accuracy is upheld, otherwise select 'FAIL'.

To maintain integrity in the portrayal of history.

FAQs

It's recommended to perform a comprehensive audit bi-annually, with ongoing monitoring and quarterly reviews of key diversity metrics for current and upcoming productions.

The audit examines on-screen representation, behind-the-camera roles, storyline diversity, character development, language use, cultural authenticity, and accessibility features like closed captioning and audio description.

The audit should be led by diversity and inclusion officers, with input from content creators, network executives, human resources, and representatives from various community groups to ensure a comprehensive perspective.

Enhanced diversity and inclusion can lead to increased audience engagement, improved brand reputation, access to new market segments, and potentially higher ratings and advertising revenue.

Data analysis is crucial for tracking representation metrics, identifying trends, and measuring progress over time. It helps in setting quantifiable goals and making data-driven decisions to improve diversity and inclusion efforts.

Benefits of Television Program Diversity and Inclusion Audit Checklist

Enhances representation of diverse groups in television content

Improves audience engagement and relatability across different demographics

Promotes social responsibility and positive brand image for the network

Helps identify gaps in diversity and inclusion efforts

Supports compliance with industry diversity initiatives and guidelines