While mainstream channels and broadcasters everywhere scrabble to diversify and work out new revenue models in the face of plunging viewing numbers (MTV, that means you), some independent media outlets are quietly starting low cost online TV channels, most recently Pitchfork.TV.
Essentially an extension of the hugely successful Pitchfork website, which attracts millions of hits from music lovers for its in-depth, hugely respected reviews of music from across the spectrum, but particularly for its role in championing independent music, so far the channel is pretty basic: following bands around, broadcasting exclusive shows, old concerts and the like.
Small potatoes you say, but the potential is huge: a well-respected site with good industry contacts could do big things with interesting behind the scenes interviews with upcoming (and established) bands, showing old concerts etc by catering to a burgeoning market niche for music content long vacated by MTV and VH1 et al.
VBS.TV, Heavy and Current are other great examples of this new field. Because the of the small costs associated with producing and broadcasting this sort of content the niche programming doesn't need (or want) mainstream fodder to capture the huge audiences to justify the massive media buys that are needed to support larger media operations. More choice for the various cultural tribes out there. Micro-media outlets if you will.
www.pitchfork.tv
Micro-Media Outlets
Pitchfork.TV
Trend Themes
1. Low Cost Online TV Channels - The rise of low cost online TV channels presents disruptive innovation opportunities for independent media outlets to diversify and attract niche audiences, catering to market needs that mainstream channels often overlook.
2. Niche Music Content - The demand for niche music content is on the rise, creating opportunities for independent media outlets to fill the gap left by mainstream channels and provide unique behind-the-scenes interviews, exclusive shows, and old concerts to music lovers.
3. Micro-media Outlets - Micro-media outlets, such as Pitchfork.TV, VBS.TV, Heavy, and Current, are emerging as alternative sources of content by offering specialized programming and appealing to specific cultural tribes, disrupting the dominance of larger media operations.
Industry Implications
1. Online Media - The online media industry can leverage low cost online TV channels to diversify their offerings and reach niche audiences, creating disruptive innovation opportunities in the market.
2. Music - The music industry can benefit from the rise of niche music content platforms, as independent media outlets provide exposure to upcoming and established bands, showcasing behind-the-scenes interviews and old concerts to cater to music enthusiasts' needs.
3. Broadcasting - The broadcasting industry faces disruptive innovation opportunities as micro-media outlets challenge the traditional model by offering specialized programming and capturing audiences that mainstream channels have overlooked due to their focus on mass appeal.