Lately the world of media seems like one big juggling act. While watching the newest episode of Project Runway tonight I couldn't help but feel bombarded with advertisements prompting me to visit the Bravo TV Web site. On the Web site I found that I was once again bombarded but this time they were telling me to watch Bravo shows. On both mediums I was urged try out the text message alerts to keep me posted on additional information about my favorite show. It's enough to make my head spin.
I looked a little closer and realized that the different mediums completely compliment each other. The content is tailored for each kind of media. I watched Project Runway first on TV, and then I went to the web for more in depth information. On the web they are able to post more content, designer bios, and quizzes. It is interactive in a way that TV could never be.
Networks are in a virtual juggling act of their own. Their problem is: they don't know how to maximize profits throughout the different platforms. How does a network monetize an audience who turns to the Internet or an iPod to watch their favorite TV shows on the go.
Recently NBC tried to track where the Olympics viewers were turning for information. They found that the Olympics were primarily watched on televisions; 85% of U.S. TV homes were tuned in. And the NBC Web site didn't do so bad either, averaging about 1.5 million viewers a day.
If the networks continue being able to track the activities of the consumers they will gain exponentially. Advertisers would know how much money to pay for what time and producers will have a better idea of what content should go where. For now, I'll probably continue to feel bombarded but at least I have a little understanding of why.
Leave a comment