ESPN proves mobile isn't cannibalizing online viewers
Mobile is an exciting new format for many businesses, opening new opportunities for paid content and increased viewership. But are mobile sites and apps poaching viewers that might normally interact with a company's more robust web property?
According to a presentation from ESPN, mobile is instead opening an entirely new market for the company, and their findings can be useful for other verticals as well.
ESPN to turn World Cup into cross-platform experiment
It's a multi-platform world, and media companies know it. A growing number of them have developed
But building cross-platform businesses isn't just about building cross-platform properties. Media companies that have built respectable cross-platform properties need to measure just how many consumers use them.
ESPN looks to score with 3D
Avatar, the sci-fi blockbuster that has already grossed more than $1bn globally at the box office, has rekindled interest in 3D entertainment.
That's because a lot of the buzz around the movie, which can be viewed in a 3D flavor, can be attributed to the 3D experience.
Television advertising can go wrong with online formats
Television networks have learned a few lessons from online advertising, but a new effort by Disney ignores the distinctions between the two media. According to AdAge today, ESPN and ABC are now testing advertising that will run above or below network shows during programming.
The latest in the networks' efforts to combat commercial fast forwarding, this plan confuses intrusion for engagement.
ESPN learns a thing or two about Twitter
What do the Marine Corps and ESPN have in common — besides a fascination with men in uniform? A fear of Twitter.
On Monday the Marines announced a ban on social networking for soldiers that included usage of Facebook, MySpace, Twitter and other social networking sites. They argued that social networking sites have the potential to endanger soldiers. Ok. Maybe.
But then ESPN followed suit, with a decree yesterday that employees were essentially banned from all sports mentions on social media.
The sports network has since relaxed its restrictions slightly, but for a company trying to increase its audience numbers, ESPN should be doing the reverse: telling its employees and on air talent to tweet early and often.
Is there a new Internet business model in town?
Yesterday I discussed how The New York Times is looking to subscriptions or some form of paid content once again to help it weather not only a tough economy, but a dire financial situation brought about by declining print revenue.
Paid content can be a great business model but it's not always easy to pull off, especially when you've been giving your content away for free. After all, why would someone start paying for something you were giving them at no cost just a week ago?
