The active choice of television
The digital transition of the Danish public service media organisation DR and implications for its production culture
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7146/mk.v40i78.147085Keywords:
Digital transition, Production studies, Publishing practices, Multi-platform strategies, Streamability, On-demand televisionAbstract
Based on an empirical production study, this article demonstrates the multifaceted implications of the Danish public service media organisation DR’s digital transition. Focusing on the role of the publishing editors and their concept of the active choice, the article proves how the perception of the video-on-demand users has repercussions for DR’s production culture, as the streaming service is strongly prioritised in the content publishing. The term streamability is coined to illustrate how the content on offer as well as the production-related requirements of the single programme are adjusted accordingly. Broadcasters worldwide experience a cross-pressure from competition with global platforms, political interference, technological development, and changing media usage. The case of DR illustrates how digital transition can entail greater organisational orientation towards the users. However, the article concludes by cautioning against the risk of losing the legitimacy of a public service organisation when introducing AI-supported personalisation.
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