Programming Network TV

1. The odds of getting a show on
1. 1200 show ideas/year/network are "pitched"
2. a network finances 120-150 scripts
3. 40 or so pilots are made
4. 8-15 new series (number is growing with more mid-season shifts) are put on the air.
5. 1 in 10 new series makes a second year (the time needed for syndication profits.)
2. Picking new shows -- criteria
1. imitation principle
2. "high concept"
3. audience research

a. GSR, surveys, etc.

b. focus groups

c. Q-ratings

4. winning producers (Bochco, Kelly, Spelling, Cannell, Spielberg)
5. Cost   (thus, reality-based shows get on. They're cheap!)
6. Self Ownership - Networks want to buy programs produced within their own corporation. 

• Segmentation - demassification

• Use of VALs (values and lifestyles groups) 

• Advertising media mix

• "zipping? by VCRs and "zapping" by channel surfing