Podcast
Questions and Answers
What was the major factor in the transition to a post-network?
What was the major factor in the transition to a post-network?
shift in audience
What has caused the number and variety of cable channels to increase?
What has caused the number and variety of cable channels to increase?
New service, growing market penetration, introduction of fiber optic cable
What capability did the introduction of fiber optic cable provide networks?
What capability did the introduction of fiber optic cable provide networks?
offer more channels and charge more for packages
What happened to The Big 3 Networks from 1985-95?
What happened to The Big 3 Networks from 1985-95?
What was the result after the Big Three Networks lost a 20% prime time audience?
What was the result after the Big Three Networks lost a 20% prime time audience?
Define narrowcasting.
Define narrowcasting.
What are the benefits of narrowcasting?
What are the benefits of narrowcasting?
What changes in TV production led to the post-network era?
What changes in TV production led to the post-network era?
What did the newly adapted technological changes deliver?
What did the newly adapted technological changes deliver?
What are the 5 C's defining the post-network era?
What are the 5 C's defining the post-network era?
Name two technological changes related to broadcasting.
Name two technological changes related to broadcasting.
What does 'change in style' refer to?
What does 'change in style' refer to?
How did networks achieve quality in their programming?
How did networks achieve quality in their programming?
What does 'change in narrative' involve?
What does 'change in narrative' involve?
What is cable proliferation?
What is cable proliferation?
By 1995, how many homes had cable reached?
By 1995, how many homes had cable reached?
What is DBS?
What is DBS?
Study Notes
Post-Network Transition
- The shift in audience behavior marked the transition to a post-network era, splitting attention across multiple channels and devices.
- Television programming is now available beyond traditional TV sets.
Cable Channel Growth
- Increase in cable channels driven by new services, market penetration, and fiber optic cable technology.
- Fiber optic cable enabled networks to offer more channels and enhanced package pricing.
Impact on The Big Three Networks
- From 1985 to 1995, the prime time audience for The Big Three Networks dropped by 20%, yet they managed to survive.
- Despite audience fragmentation, networks maintained the largest viewer bases, which led to increased advertising rates.
Narrowcasting
- Narrowcasting refers to targeting information to specific, narrow demographics.
- Narrowcasting can result in a smaller audience, but the viewers are more inclined to engage with the content and likely to purchase products.
Changes in TV Production
- The deterioration of the Big Three Networks coincided with a diverse range of cable TV options and a shift in audience preferences.
- Technological advancements provided a wide variety of programs, less media constraints, and enhanced viewer choice over timing.
Key Features of the Post-Network Era
- Defined by the 5 C's: choice, control, convenience, customization, and community.
- Technological changes like VCR and DVR revolutionized viewing habits, making traditional broadcasting schedules less relevant.
Evolution of Style and Narrative
- Changes in TV style shifted from an economic focus to an aesthetic emphasis, prioritizing quality.
- Networks revived storytelling techniques inspired by old-school radio, highlighting authorship and ensemble casts (e.g., Friends, Seinfeld, The Simpsons).
- The narrative landscape evolved with the rise of producers-auteurs, dramedies, and a resurgence of sitcom formats.
Cable Proliferation
- The cable proliferation period reflects significant industry growth and expansion.
- By 1995, cable penetration reached 66.8% of U.S. homes, indicating widespread adoption.
Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS)
- DBS began in 1994, providing satellite-based services that deliver hundreds of channels directly to households for a monthly fee.
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Description
Explore the key concepts of the post-network era, including the shift in audience behavior and the impact of cable channel proliferation. This quiz will help you understand how media consumption has evolved with the rise of narrowcasting and various devices. Test your knowledge with flashcards that cover the essential terms and definitions in this field.
