6.2 Stacking and prioritizing stories
10 min read•august 20, 2024
Stacking and prioritizing stories are crucial skills for any TV news producer. These techniques help create engaging newscasts that keep viewers tuned in from start to finish. By carefully selecting and ordering stories, producers can maximize audience interest and boost ratings.
Effective stacking involves balancing various factors like news value, timeliness, and local relevance. Producers must consider the , broadcast time slot, and competition when making editorial decisions. The goal is to create a well-structured newscast that informs and captivates viewers across different platforms.
Importance of story stacking
- Story stacking plays a crucial role in engaging viewers from the very beginning of a newscast and keeping them interested throughout the entire program
- Effective story stacking helps maintain audience interest by presenting the most compelling and relevant stories in a logical and attention-grabbing order
- A well-crafted story stack can boost ratings and ad revenue by attracting and retaining viewers, making the newscast more appealing to advertisers
Engaging viewers from the start
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- The should be the most impactful, timely, or interesting to immediately capture the audience's attention (, major developments)
- The first few minutes of a newscast are critical in setting the tone and establishing the newscast's credibility and relevance
- Viewers are more likely to stay tuned if they are engaged by the initial stories and feel that the newscast is worth their time
Maintaining audience interest
- The story stack should be designed to keep viewers engaged by alternating between different types of stories (, human interest, lighter stories)
- Teases and promotions throughout the newscast can entice viewers to stay tuned for upcoming stories
- The pacing of the newscast should be varied to maintain viewer interest, with a mix of longer, in-depth stories and shorter, more digestible pieces
Boosting ratings and ad revenue
- Higher ratings lead to increased ad revenue, as advertisers are willing to pay more for spots during popular newscasts
- Consistent, engaging story stacking can help build viewer loyalty and establish the newscast as a reliable source of information and entertainment
- A strong newscast brand and reputation can attract premium advertisers and sponsorships
Key factors in prioritization
- Several key factors must be considered when prioritizing stories for a newscast, including news value, timeliness, local relevance, and human interest
- Balancing these factors helps ensure that the newscast is informative, engaging, and relevant to the target audience
News value and impact
- Stories with significant impact on the community, region, or nation should be given high priority (policy changes, major events, investigative reports)
- The potential consequences and implications of a story should be weighed when determining its placement in the stack
- Stories that hold those in power accountable or expose wrongdoing often have high news value
Timeliness and urgency
- Breaking news and developing stories should be prioritized to keep viewers informed of the latest events
- Stories with a sense of urgency or immediacy are more likely to capture viewers' attention (deadlines, public safety threats, rapidly unfolding situations)
- Timely stories help establish the newscast as a reliable source for up-to-date information
Local relevance and proximity
- Stories that directly impact the local community should be given priority, as viewers are most interested in news that affects their daily lives (local government, schools, crime)
- Proximity to the viewer makes stories more relatable and engaging
- Local angles on national or international stories can make them more relevant to the audience
Human interest and emotion
- Stories that evoke strong emotions or showcase compelling human experiences can be powerful tools for engaging viewers (triumphs over adversity, acts of kindness, unique personalities)
- Human interest stories help create an emotional connection between the audience and the newscast
- These stories can provide a balance to hard news and offer a more personal touch to the broadcast
Stacking strategies
- Effective story stacking involves strategic decision-making to create a compelling and well-structured newscast
- Various strategies can be employed to maximize viewer engagement and ensure a balanced presentation of news
Lead story selection
- The lead story should be the most significant, impactful, or attention-grabbing story of the day
- Factors to consider when choosing a lead story include timeliness, relevance, and potential to draw in viewers
- The lead story sets the tone for the entire newscast and should be chosen carefully
Balancing hard news vs soft news
- A mix of hard news (politics, economics, crime) and (human interest, lifestyle, entertainment) helps create a well-rounded newscast
- Too much hard news can be overwhelming for viewers, while too much soft news may not be seen as substantive
- Striking the right balance keeps viewers engaged and ensures they receive a comprehensive news update
Placement of breaking news
- Breaking news stories should be given priority placement, often at the top of the newscast or in the A-block
- If a breaking story develops during the newscast, it may be necessary to adjust the stack in real-time
- Producers should have contingency plans for handling breaking news and be prepared to make quick decisions
Teases and promotions
- Teases and promotions throughout the newscast can be used to keep viewers engaged and encourage them to stay tuned
- Effective teases highlight upcoming stories without giving away too much information, creating a sense of anticipation
- Promotions for future newscasts or special segments can help build viewer loyalty and increase tune-in
Newscast structure
- The structure of a newscast is designed to present stories in a logical and engaging order, with each block serving a specific purpose
- Understanding the role of each block and the placement of different types of stories is essential for creating an effective newscast
A-block priorities
- The A-block typically contains the most important and timely stories, including the lead story and any breaking news
- This block should be fast-paced and attention-grabbing to keep viewers engaged
- The A-block often sets the tone for the rest of the newscast and should be carefully crafted
B-block and beyond
- The B-block and subsequent blocks allow for more in-depth coverage of stories introduced in the A-block
- These blocks can also include additional stories that are important but not as time-sensitive as those in the A-block
- The pacing of these blocks can be slightly slower than the A-block, allowing for more comprehensive storytelling
Weather and sports placement
- Weather and sports segments are typically placed in the latter half of the newscast, often in the C-block or later
- The placement of these segments can vary depending on the importance of weather events or major sports stories
- Consistency in the placement of weather and sports helps viewers know when to expect these segments
Kicker story considerations
- The kicker story is the final story in the newscast, often a light-hearted, uplifting, or amusing piece
- The kicker story should leave viewers with a positive feeling and encourage them to tune in again
- Placement of the kicker story is important, as it should not overshadow more serious news but still leave a lasting impression
Editorial decision-making
- Editorial decision-making is a collaborative process that involves various roles within the newsroom, each with specific responsibilities
- Effective communication and coordination among team members are essential for making informed decisions and adapting to changing circumstances
News director's role
- The has overall responsibility for the newscast's content and structure
- They provide guidance and direction to the team, ensuring that the newscast aligns with the station's editorial standards and values
- The news director makes final decisions on story placement, resource allocation, and coverage priorities
Producer's responsibilities
- Producers are responsible for executing the news director's vision and creating a cohesive, engaging newscast
- They make decisions about story order, segment length, and visual elements
- Producers work closely with reporters, anchors, and production staff to ensure a smooth and polished broadcast
Collaboration with reporters
- Reporters play a key role in shaping the content of the newscast by pitching stories and providing on-the-ground perspective
- Collaboration between producers and reporters is essential for developing compelling, well-rounded stories
- Regular communication and feedback help ensure that stories meet editorial standards and fit within the newscast's structure
Adapting to changing circumstances
- The news environment is constantly evolving, and editorial teams must be prepared to adapt to breaking news and changing priorities
- Flexibility and quick decision-making are essential for adjusting the story stack and newscast structure as needed
- Effective communication and coordination among team members are crucial for navigating unexpected changes
Factors affecting stacking
- Various factors can influence the way stories are stacked and prioritized in a newscast, including audience demographics, broadcast time slot, and competition
- Understanding and adapting to these factors can help optimize the newscast's impact and reach
Target audience demographics
- The target audience's age, gender, income, and interests should be considered when stacking stories
- Stories that resonate with the target audience are more likely to keep them engaged and coming back for more
- Demographic data and audience feedback can inform stacking decisions and help tailor the newscast to viewer preferences
Broadcast time slot
- The broadcast time slot can influence the types of stories prioritized and the overall tone of the newscast
- Morning newscasts may focus more on traffic, weather, and lighter stories to help viewers start their day
- Evening newscasts may prioritize more in-depth, serious stories and provide a comprehensive summary of the day's events
Competition from other newscasts
- Awareness of competitors' coverage and stacking strategies can help differentiate the newscast and attract viewers
- Offering unique angles, exclusive content, or a distinctive presentation style can set the newscast apart
- Monitoring competitors' performance and audience response can provide insights for refining the newscast's stacking approach
Seasonal and event-driven changes
- Stacking strategies may need to be adapted to accommodate seasonal changes or major events (holidays, elections, sports tournaments)
- Special coverage or themed segments can be incorporated to capitalize on viewer interest during these times
- Flexibility in the story stack allows the newscast to remain relevant and engaging throughout the year
Stacking for different platforms
- In today's media landscape, news content is consumed across various platforms, each with its own unique characteristics and audience expectations
- Adapting stacking strategies for different platforms is essential for maximizing the reach and impact of news content
Linear TV vs digital
- Linear TV newscasts have a fixed structure and time constraints, requiring a carefully planned story stack
- Digital platforms (websites, apps) allow for more flexibility in story presentation and user interaction
- Digital stacking strategies may prioritize stories that generate high engagement, such as those with compelling visuals or interactive elements
Social media integration
- Social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram) can be used to promote newscast content and engage with viewers
- Stacking strategies for social media should focus on stories that are likely to be shared and generate discussion
- Teasing upcoming stories or providing behind-the-scenes glimpses can help build anticipation and drive viewers to the newscast
Podcast and streaming considerations
- Podcasts and streaming platforms offer opportunities for more in-depth, niche-focused news content
- Stacking strategies for these platforms may prioritize longer-form storytelling and more specialized topics
- Consistency in release schedules and content themes can help build a loyal audience
Tailoring content for each medium
- Each platform has its own strengths and limitations, and stacking strategies should be tailored accordingly
- Visual elements, story length, and presentation style may need to be adapted to suit the platform and its audience
- A cohesive brand identity and consistent editorial standards should be maintained across all platforms
Evaluating stacking effectiveness
- Regularly evaluating the effectiveness of stacking strategies is essential for continuous improvement and audience growth
- Various metrics and analytics can be used to assess the impact of stacking decisions and identify areas for optimization
Viewer engagement metrics
- Metrics such as time spent viewing, audience retention, and social media engagement can provide insights into how well the story stack resonates with viewers
- These metrics can help identify which stories or segments are most effective at capturing and holding audience attention
- Regularly reviewing engagement metrics can inform ongoing adjustments to the stacking strategy
Social media analytics
- Social media analytics can reveal which stories generate the most shares, comments, and reactions
- This data can help identify topics and angles that resonate with the audience and inspire further coverage
- Monitoring social media sentiment can also provide valuable feedback on the newscast's overall impact and reputation
Ratings and market share
- Television ratings and market share data provide a high-level view of the newscast's performance relative to competitors
- Analyzing ratings trends over time can help identify the impact of stacking decisions on audience growth and retention
- Ratings data can also inform advertising and sponsorship strategies, as well as programming decisions
Continuous improvement strategies
- Regularly reviewing and discussing stacking effectiveness with the newsroom team can help identify opportunities for improvement
- Encouraging experimentation and innovation in stacking strategies can help the newscast stay fresh and relevant
- Seeking feedback from viewers, advertisers, and industry peers can provide valuable insights for refining the stacking approach
- Staying informed about industry trends and best practices can help the newscast remain competitive and adapt to changing audience preferences
Key Terms to Review (12)
Agenda-setting: Agenda-setting refers to the ability of the media to influence the importance placed on the topics of public discourse. It plays a crucial role in shaping what issues are seen as significant and worthy of attention, often guiding the priorities of news coverage and public opinion. This process is key in determining how stories are stacked and prioritized in the newsroom, impacting what audiences perceive as important news.
Assignment editor: An assignment editor is a key role in a newsroom responsible for determining which stories will be covered, assigning reporters to those stories, and managing the flow of news coverage throughout the day. This position requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize stories based on their newsworthiness and audience interest, ensuring that important events are reported timely and accurately.
Breaking News: Breaking news refers to urgent and important information about recent events that are unfolding in real-time. This type of news often interrupts regular programming and demands immediate attention from the newsroom and audience, affecting how stories are prioritized, written, and presented.
Editorial policies: Editorial policies are the set of guidelines and principles that govern how content is created, presented, and managed in media organizations. These policies ensure that the news coverage adheres to standards of accuracy, fairness, and integrity while also addressing ethical considerations and audience expectations.
Hard news: Hard news refers to timely, factual reporting of significant events, particularly those involving politics, economics, and public safety. This type of news is typically characterized by its straightforward and objective style, focusing on the who, what, where, when, and why of an event. The nature of hard news means it often takes precedence in stacking and prioritizing stories due to its importance in informing the public about critical issues.
Lead story: A lead story is the most important news item in a newscast, typically chosen for its relevance, impact, or public interest. It serves as the focal point of a broadcast and sets the tone for the entire program. The selection of a lead story reflects editorial judgment and prioritization, aiming to engage viewers with compelling content right from the start.
Media framing: Media framing refers to the way information is presented to the audience, influencing how they perceive and interpret events or issues. This technique shapes public understanding by emphasizing certain aspects while downplaying others, often guiding the narrative in a specific direction. Effective media framing can affect public opinion and influence the priority of stories reported in the news.
News director: A news director is the individual responsible for overseeing the news department of a television station or news organization, managing news operations, staff, and content decisions. This role is crucial for ensuring that the newsroom runs smoothly, and it involves using rundown software to automate various aspects of production and making decisions about how to stack and prioritize stories for broadcasts.
Objectivity: Objectivity in journalism refers to the practice of reporting news in a way that is impartial, unbiased, and free from personal opinions or emotions. It is crucial for maintaining credibility and trust with the audience, allowing news organizations to present information fairly and accurately without favoritism. This approach influences various aspects of news reporting, from the delivery by anchors to the decisions made by news directors about what stories to cover and how to present them.
Soft news: Soft news refers to journalism that focuses on entertainment, lifestyle, and human interest stories rather than hard news, which deals with more serious topics like politics and economics. This type of news often aims to engage audiences emotionally and provide lighter content that is more relatable and entertaining, making it popular among viewers looking for a break from traditional news.
Target audience: A target audience is a specific group of people that media content is intended to reach. Understanding the target audience helps in crafting messages that resonate with viewers, guiding decisions on content creation, distribution strategies, and marketing efforts. Identifying the target audience allows news organizations to focus their coverage and tailor their storytelling to meet the needs and interests of those who are most likely to consume their news.
Viewer ratings: Viewer ratings are metrics that measure the number of people watching a particular television program or news broadcast. They provide insights into audience engagement, helping networks and producers understand what content resonates with viewers. High viewer ratings indicate popular programming, which can influence decisions on news coverage, story prioritization, and the types of syndicated content used to attract audiences.