CBS

Definition

CBS, short for Columbia Broadcasting System, is one of the major American television networks that emerged in the early 20th century. Known for its wide range of programming, CBS has played a pivotal role in shaping television's landscape, influencing both network business models and genre development while navigating the challenges posed by the rise of streaming services.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CBS was founded in 1927 and quickly grew to become one of the dominant television networks in the United States, known for its robust news division and popular series.
2. The network has been at the forefront of many television milestones, including the introduction of iconic shows such as 'I Love Lucy' and '60 Minutes', which helped define early TV genres.
3. CBS has adapted its business model over the years by incorporating advertising revenue and expanding into digital content delivery to stay competitive.
4. In response to the growing popularity of streaming services, CBS launched its own streaming platform, CBS All Access (now rebranded as Paramount+), to attract younger audiences and offer on-demand content.
5. The network's historical role in live broadcasting events, like sports and award shows, continues to be a significant aspect of its programming strategy, especially in prime time.

Review Questions

• How did CBS influence the development of early TV genres during its formative years?
  • CBS significantly influenced early TV genres through pioneering programming that captured audience interest. Shows like 'I Love Lucy' set standards for sitcoms with their innovative use of multi-camera setups and live audiences. Additionally, CBS's commitment to quality news programming with '60 Minutes' helped establish the news magazine format, demonstrating that serious journalism could also draw large audiences. This mix of entertainment and information became a blueprint for future television programming.
• Discuss how CBS has evolved its business model in response to changes in viewer behavior and competition from streaming services.
  • CBS has evolved its business model by embracing digital transformation and creating its own streaming service, CBS All Access. This shift was necessary as more viewers turned to on-demand content rather than traditional live TV. By offering a library of past shows along with exclusive original programming, CBS aimed to attract younger demographics who prefer watching content on their schedules. Additionally, the network has continued to leverage advertising revenue while exploring subscription models, showcasing adaptability in a changing media landscape.
• Evaluate the impact of CBS’s strategic decisions on its competitiveness against emerging streaming platforms in recent years.
  • CBS's strategic decisions have had a significant impact on its competitiveness against streaming platforms by diversifying its content delivery methods and expanding its brand. By launching Paramount+, CBS not only incorporated a vast archive of beloved shows but also produced new originals that appeal to modern viewers. This approach helps CBS retain relevance in an increasingly fragmented media market. Furthermore, their continued investment in live events, such as sports broadcasting, plays to their strengths while providing unique offerings that differ from typical streaming platforms. Overall, these decisions reflect CBS's commitment to innovation while leveraging its rich history in television.

Related terms

Network Television: A system of broadcasting that distributes content to local stations across the country, allowing viewers to access a variety of programs through affiliate networks.

Prime Time: The block of evening hours during which the largest number of viewers watch television, typically scheduled between 8 PM and 11 PM, where major networks like CBS focus their most popular shows.

Streaming Services: Digital platforms that deliver video content over the internet, allowing users to watch shows and movies on-demand, impacting traditional television networks like CBS.