Research Questions

Topic Three: Video Programming in a Digital World

Cable operators pioneered new channel offerings and helped to dramatically expand the range and quality of video programming available to consumers. Consumers have more program choices, channels, and content packages available to them than ever before. At the same time, the video distribution marketplace has become highly competitive, with satellite, telephone company, cable overbuilder, wireless, and online video providers all providing video services to consumers in the home. A successful offering involves carefully balancing program costs, pricing, and packaging in a way that appeals to consumers with ever-increasing alternatives for their leisure time.

Questions

How has competition in the video distribution marketplace affected the output of video programming to consumers? What qualitative or quantitative metrics best demonstrate the availability and value of new program offerings?
What is the future of programs that appeal to various audience segments, such as mass-appeal programs, ethnic programming, and niche content?
What is the role of over-the-air television programming in a digital world? Describe the future role of the traditional broadcast networks in the digital communications marketplace.
How has competition in the video distribution marketplace affected programming costs, pricing, and packaging to consumers? What factors are most important in considering the future of video program offerings over digital platforms?
Marketplace changes have led to increasingly contentious negotiations over retransmission consent terms. Is the retransmission consent system reaching a breaking point? If so, what changes would be required to avoid consumer disruption and increases in cable rates, and ensure fair compensation to broadcasters for their signals? If not, what factors support keeping it as is, and when might changes be required?