Syndication

Definition

Syndication refers to the process of selling the rights to air television shows to multiple broadcasters or networks, allowing a program to be shown in various markets simultaneously or at different times. This practice has significant implications for revenue generation and audience reach, as it enables a show to gain wider distribution beyond its original network, often leading to reruns and new viewer engagement. Additionally, syndication can contribute to the longevity of successful shows, enhancing their cultural impact and financial viability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. A show typically needs to reach a certain number of episodes, often around 100, before it is eligible for syndication, as this provides sufficient content for multiple broadcasts.
2. Syndicated shows can generate significant revenue through advertising sales during reruns, as they may attract both loyal viewers and new audiences who missed the original airing.
3. Some classic sitcoms and dramas became cultural touchstones due to their successful syndication, allowing them to reach new generations of viewers long after their initial run.
4. Syndication can also impact programming decisions for networks, as successful syndicated shows might influence what new content is developed based on audience preferences.
5. The rise of streaming platforms has changed the landscape of syndication, with many shows now being offered through subscription services rather than traditional broadcast syndication.

Review Questions

• How does syndication impact the revenue model for television shows?
  • Syndication significantly boosts the revenue model for television shows by allowing them to be sold to multiple broadcasters. This creates additional income streams through advertising during reruns, as shows can attract both new and existing audiences. Furthermore, successful syndication can lead to ongoing profits long after the original airing has ended, making it a crucial component of a show's financial success.
• Discuss the eligibility criteria for a television show to enter syndication and its implications on programming strategy.
  • For a television show to enter syndication, it typically must have around 100 episodes produced. This threshold ensures there is enough content for multiple airings across different markets. As a result, networks may prioritize producing shows that have the potential for syndication in their programming strategy, leading to more episodic formats that can build an extensive library of content.
• Evaluate the changing role of syndication in the television industry with the advent of streaming services and how this impacts viewer engagement.
  • With the rise of streaming services, the traditional role of syndication has evolved. Many shows that once relied on reruns through syndication are now available on-demand on platforms like Netflix and Hulu. This shift allows for greater viewer engagement since audiences can watch entire series at their own pace. However, it also raises questions about the future profitability of syndicated reruns and how networks will adapt their strategies in an increasingly digital landscape.

Related terms

Broadcasting: The distribution of audio and video content to a dispersed audience via electronic mass communication mediums, such as television and radio.

Reruns: Television episodes that are aired again after their original broadcast, often used in syndication to fill programming schedules.

Licensing: The legal permission granted by a rights holder to another party to use content under specified conditions, including the airing of syndicated shows.