Network executives

Definition

Network executives are high-ranking professionals in television networks responsible for making decisions about programming, budget allocation, and overall network strategy. They play a crucial role in the process of pitching and developing new shows, as they evaluate ideas from writers and producers to determine what will be produced and aired. Their influence extends to shaping the network's brand identity and audience reach.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Network executives are typically responsible for approving or rejecting show pitches, determining which projects receive funding for development.
2. They often have specific target demographics in mind, which influences their decisions about what types of shows to greenlight.
3. Executives work closely with creative teams to ensure that the content aligns with the network's brand and audience expectations.
4. Networking and relationships with industry professionals are crucial for executives, as they often rely on their connections to find promising projects.
5. Their decisions can greatly impact the careers of writers, directors, and actors, as a successful show can lead to more opportunities within the industry.

Review Questions

• How do network executives influence the types of shows that are pitched and developed within the television industry?
  • Network executives influence show development by setting specific programming goals and target demographics that align with their network's brand identity. When evaluating pitches, they prioritize ideas that resonate with their audience's preferences and fit into their strategic vision. This means that creators must tailor their pitches to appeal directly to what executives are looking for, making the relationship between creative teams and network executives vital for success.
• Discuss the relationship between network executives and showrunners in the context of television production.
  • The relationship between network executives and showrunners is critical in television production as it shapes the overall vision of a series. Network executives provide guidance on network strategy and audience preferences, while showrunners translate these insights into creative content. Open communication and collaboration between both parties are essential to ensure that the show meets network standards while still maintaining the creative integrity envisioned by the showrunner.
• Evaluate how changes in consumer behavior and technology have affected the role of network executives in recent years.
  • Changes in consumer behavior and technology have significantly transformed the role of network executives. With the rise of streaming services and on-demand content, viewers now expect greater flexibility in how they consume television. This shift has led network executives to adapt by embracing new platforms and exploring alternative distribution models. Executives must now consider factors such as binge-watching trends and digital engagement metrics when making decisions about programming, which demands a more innovative approach to traditional television strategies.

Related terms

Showrunner: A showrunner is the individual responsible for the day-to-day management of a television series, overseeing all aspects of production, including writing, casting, and directing.

Pilot Episode: A pilot episode is a standalone episode of a television series that serves as a prototype to sell the show to a network.

Programming Strategy: Programming strategy refers to the plan and approach taken by a network to schedule and promote its shows in order to attract and retain viewers.