Resistance of channels: television distribution in the multiplatform era

Doyle, G. (2016) Resistance of channels: television distribution in the multiplatform era. Telematics and Informatics, 33(2), pp. 693-702. (doi: 10.1016/j.tele.2015.06.015)

Abstract

This article focuses on distribution of television and, using BBC Three as a case study, provides an in-depth examination of how broadcasters’ strategies for packaging and distributing content are being re-considered in response to newly emerging patterns of audience behaviour and demand. It considers the extent to which the role of the broadcast channel – traditionally the main vector via which audiences have enjoyed television content - may now be threatened by the rise of online rivals and accompanying pressures to adjust to a digital multiplatform environment. Drawing on the experience of BBC Three, the research question it asks is: to what extent is there an economic justification for switching from ‘the channel’ as the distribution format to an online-only service? The original findings presented are based on analysis of the finances of BBC Three, on evidence gathered through a series of in-depth interviews carried out with senior executives at the BBC, and on analysis of secondary source data and public policy statements and performance reviews. They provide an empirically based contribution to knowledge about how growth of the internet is prompting public service suppliers of media to reconsider and adjust their strategies for distribution of television content and, more generally, to understanding of contemporary strategies for re-invention and survival in the television industry.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Doyle, Professor Gillian
• Authors: Doyle, G.
• College/School: College of Arts > School of Culture and Creative Arts > Theatre Film and TV Studies
• Journal Name: Telematics and Informatics
• Publisher: Elsevier Ltd.
• ISSN: 0736-5853
• ISSN (Online): 1879-324X
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd.
• First Published: First published in Telematics and Informatics 33(2):693-702
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher.

Project Code	Award No	Project Name	Principal Investigator	Funder's Name	Funder Ref	Lead Dept
53798	1	'Multi-platform media and the digital challenge: Strategy, Distribution and Policy'	Gillian Doyle	Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC)	ES/J011606/1	CCA - THEATRE FILM AND TV STUDIES