key term - Stripped programming

Definition

Stripped programming refers to a scheduling strategy where television shows air at the same time every weekday, often with the same episodes repeated. This method aims to build a loyal audience by creating a predictable viewing experience, which is especially important in syndication as it allows stations to maximize their advertising revenue through consistent viewership.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Stripped programming is commonly used for talk shows, soap operas, and game shows, as these formats benefit from regular daily viewership.
2. This programming strategy enhances advertising opportunities, as advertisers are attracted to shows with consistent viewer numbers throughout the week.
3. Shows using stripped programming are often marketed as part of a 'block' of content, encouraging viewers to tune in at the same time each day.
4. The strategy can lead to increased production value since successful shows can be more easily financed when they have a predictable audience.
5. Stripped programming is a key factor in creating cultural phenomena, as it allows audiences to engage with characters and storylines on a daily basis.

Review Questions

• How does stripped programming benefit television networks in terms of advertising revenue?
  • Stripped programming benefits television networks by providing a predictable viewing schedule that can attract consistent audiences. This steady viewership allows networks to secure higher advertising rates, as advertisers prefer shows with proven ratings. By airing the same episode multiple times during the week, networks can capitalize on this regularity to create a reliable revenue stream.
• Discuss the impact of stripped programming on audience engagement and viewer loyalty.
  • Stripped programming significantly enhances audience engagement by creating a familiar routine for viewers. When shows air at the same time every day, they become a part of viewers' daily lives, fostering loyalty and emotional investment in characters and storylines. This leads to stronger community discussions around episodes and ultimately increases the chances of long-term success for the program.
• Evaluate how stripped programming influences the scheduling strategies of both new and established television shows in syndication.
  • Stripped programming influences scheduling strategies by encouraging both new and established shows to adopt consistent airing patterns. For new shows, this approach can help build an audience quickly by creating a habit-forming routine. For established series in syndication, maintaining a stripped schedule helps preserve viewer loyalty and capitalizes on their existing fan base. Additionally, this method allows networks to experiment with lead-in programming more effectively, as the consistency can boost ratings across related content.

Related terms

Syndication:

The process of selling the rights to broadcast a television program to multiple television stations or networks, allowing them to air the show without needing to produce it themselves.

Lead-in Programming: Television shows that air immediately before another show, designed to attract viewers and improve ratings for the subsequent program.

Dayparting: The practice of dividing the day into different segments for broadcasting purposes, allowing networks to schedule various types of programming according to their target audience's viewing habits.