The television networks, competition and program diversity

The welfare and equity implications of competition in television broadcasting: the role of viewer tastes

“…The notion that ratings drive a broadcaster's revenue and that the broadcast television industry lacks price competition is supported by numerous studies (e.g., Wright, 1994;Goettler and Shachar, 2001;Fournier and Martin, 1983;Fournier, 1985;Litman, 1979). Additional empirical evidence of this can be found in Barwise and Ehrenberg, (1988) and Liu et al (2004).…”

Market competition and media performance examining primetime series in Taiwan

“…For example, some studies define media performance as the quality of Shu-Chu Sarrina Li media products, others consider diversity in mass media offerings, and still others look at the social functions media products provide (Bagdikian, 1985;Li & Chiang, 1998;Lin, 1995;Litman, 1979;Rothenbuhler & Dimmick, 1982). Among the many definitions, diversity is the most frequently used indicator for media performance.…”

“…In this situation firms try to differentiate their products from others in order to cater to specific niches. Therefore, more competitors in a market induce innovation and increase media diversity (Coser et al, 1982;Litman, 1979;Peterson & Berger, 1975;Rothenbuhler & Dimmick, 1982;Ryan, 1985).…”

“…Therefore, the data supported a positive relationship between competition and diversity. A second study conducted by Litman (1979) also examined the relationship between market competition and programming diversity in the TV market. During the 1970s, ABC had always been in third place in the ratings.…”

Predicting New TV Series Ratings from their Pilot Episode Scripts

“…Those who can manage that uncertainty stand to profit handsomely. As Litman (1979) noted, "program executives who can successfully predict how viewers will respond to different types of programs can be expected to make fewer development and scheduling mistakes, hold down programming costs, and win the ratings game. "…”