Is the Future of Television The Internet?

Just two months ago I was immovably of the belief that television as the traditional media platform we’ve enjoyed for decades was here to stay and that Internet viewing options did not pose a threat to the status quo.  I now have to admit that I was wrong.   Television is a living, breathing, vital media source that, like all living things, must evolve to the environment it inhabits.  While I remain convinced that both broadcast and cable television networks will not be planning their farewell parties just yet I do recognize that the dynamic has changed.

Historically has been an informative and entertaining medium whose content was dictated by network executives who planned every time slot down to the second.  However, with the advent of Internet and digital content viewing platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, and Crackle, viewers have now been empowered with the ability to choose what content they want to see, when they want to see it, and where they want to see it.  Through smartphones, laptops, tablets, or on regular HD TV screens via Internet television programs audiences of virtually every demographic have been given the ability to construct the system of entertainment that is right for them.

These newfound superpowers are great for viewers, not so great for traditional television networks.  Realizing which way the pendulum is swinging, cable providers have presented customers with DVRs that allow viewers to pause live television and record programs for later viewing.  Cable companies have also given promotional rate reductions and custom channel packages to loyal customers.   Just a couple of weeks ago The Hollywood Reporter announced Nielsen will be adding streaming data for Fall 2013. 

So why do I care about this information?  For a few reasons- 1. I’m a media professional currently employed by a cable network that does not stream over the Internet.  I find it helps to know if your industry is drastically changing or falling to pieces.  2.  Because my ultimate goal is to own a successful television network.  When pondering this idea just two months ago, I was convinced that cable television would be the platform to launch my network.  Now I’m not so sure.  Now I’m thinking viral might not sound that bad.