8. Sending real-time comments

The border between television programs and the public is becoming blurred. One aspect of this is the ability for viewers to send messages in real time to the show. These are then shown on screen or spoken live by the viewer or presenter.

The 'talk-in' has been a mainstay of radio stations for many years, but digital televison is now taking this idea up as well.

The communication channels for doing this include

  • Texting a number from your mobile
  • Sending an email to a given address
  • Joining a phone queue to speak live
  • Social network messages such as Twitter

 

The impact of real-time comments on viewers, broadcasters and TV companies:

Viewer
If they feel passionate about the topic being discussed then they may be able to make their thoughts known.
Popular programs will most likely have hundreds of messages. So yours will probably not be broadcast in the time available.
Callling or texting usually means a premium rate number. So the viewer needs to be mindful of the charges. Especially if they are held in a queue
Makes the show feel more immediate with viewer participation affecting the flow of the show.

 

Broadcaster
Another opportunity for charging viewers to use premium rate numbers
Gives a sense of immediacy to the show
There must be an efficient call handling service if viewer are to avoid frustrating delays
Screening the messages is required to avoid extreme or libelous comments being broadcast

 

Television company
They get an understanding of what people feel about the topic.
If thousands are passionate about the topic, then they may be able to commission another program about it.

 

challenge see if you can find out one extra fact on this topic that we haven't already told you

Click on this link: interactive comments to a television show