The word "audit" often triggers concern especially in the creative industries where rights and royalty data is complex and deeply embedded in bespoke agreements. But the truth is, audits don’t have to be daunting. In fact, when done properly, they can uncover untapped revenue, improve internal processes, and provide peace of mind for rights holders and content distributors alike.

At Lockside Media Services, we specialise in audit support for companies in the creative industries. Whether you're a production company, distributor, publisher, or rights holder, our expert-led audit services are designed to give you clarity, confidence, and control over your rights and royalties.

Why Audits Matter in the Creative Sector

Protecting Your IP and Revenue Streams

In a global, multi-platform environment, it’s easy for usage data to go unreported or miscalculated. Rights holders are often owed more than they receive, simply due to clerical errors, misinterpretations of contracts, or untracked usage across platforms.

Audits ensure that your intellectual property (IP) is being used in line with contractual terms and that you’re receiving the correct payments. For distributors and licensees, audits are equally important to demonstrate transparency, compliance, and good governance.

It's Not About Catching People Out It's About Getting it Right

Contrary to popular belief, audits aren’t just about spotting mistakes or penalising partners. They're a healthy and essential business practice, offering an opportunity to course-correct, optimise, and future-proof your royalty operations.

What Happens During a Royalty Audit?

Step 1: Preparation and Scope

The process begins with identifying what you want to audit - specific titles, territories, licensees, or reporting periods. At Lockside, we help define the audit scope in a way that aligns with your goals and resources.

Step 2: Data Collection and Contract Review

We gather the relevant contracts, sales data, usage reports, and payment history. Our team has extensive experience parsing even the most complex agreements to determine what should have been paid and under what terms.

Step 3: Analysis and Reconciliation

We then reconcile reported revenues and royalty statements against contractual obligations. This is where our hands-on, detail-driven approach makes a difference. We understand the nuances of royalty structures and leverage our knowledge and experience to uncover inconsistencies, gaps, or missed revenue.

Step 4: Findings and Recommendations

Once our analysis is complete, we deliver a clear, comprehensive report outlining our findings. This may include:

• Underreported revenues
• Discrepancies in royalty calculations
• Missed payments or late reporting
• Contractual breaches or misunderstandings

We don’t just highlight problems, we offer practical solutions and work with you to take next steps, whether that involves recovery discussions, renegotiation, or improved internal workflows.

How Lockside Adds Value to the Audit Process

A Calm, Confidential, Collaborative Approach

We understand that audits can feel invasive or politically sensitive. Our approach is discreet, respectful, and collaborative. We work closely with clients and their partners to ensure that audits are handled with integrity and professionalism.

Real-World Experience Across the Creative Industries

Our team has worked with major film and TV distributors, music publishers, literary agencies, and independent content creators. We bring both technical and industry-specific knowledge to every audit, ensuring that no detail is missed.

Tech-Enabled, People-Led

At Lockside, we combine technology with human insight. Our use of automated data analysis tools helps us process high volumes of data accurately, but it's our expert interpretation and advice that truly sets us apart.

When Should You Consider an Audit?

You don’t have to wait until there’s a problem to initiate an audit. In fact, proactive audits are a smart way to:

• Validate new partnerships
• Review older or high-value agreements
• Prepare for contract renewals or renegotiations
• Maintain internal accountability

Even a single audit can uncover systemic issues or inefficiencies that, once addressed, can save significant time and money.

Summary: Gain Clarity and Confidence with Lockside

Audits don’t need to be intimidating; they should be empowering. Whether you're looking to verify reporting accuracy, unlock missed revenue, or strengthen your internal controls, Lockside Media Services is here to guide you through every step.

Our specialist audit services are tailored, discreet, and designed to deliver results.

Feeling unsure about your royalties or ready to take a closer look?
Let’s talk about how we can help.