NBC is now telling you to “chime in”
The concept of network slogans are coming back. NBC has started a new campaign with little advance fanfare asking viewers to “Chime In” to the network. This follows a similar recent strategic move by ABC when they asked viewers to “Start Here”.
In the age of viral marketing, there has been little evidence of this move by NBC. It is not on NBC website nor are there any major campaigns promoting it.
The entire “network slogan” concept was abandoned by the networks in the 1990s. The last notable slogan used was ABC’s laughable “TV Is Good” which was abandoned in 1997. Other historical slogans include Fox’s “Just One Fox” and CBS’ “The Address Is CBS” and “It’s All Here”.
This is a case of networks trying anything to get back sagging ratings (particularly NBC, which is number four right now). What exactly does “chime in” mean anyway? Is it an attempt by NBC to make the network programming more user-interactive? Will there be telephone hotlines and Internet polls?
NBC announces something confusing (again)
It’s getting hard keeping track of what’s going on at NBC. The Peacock Network first announced that they weren’t going to do an upfront presentation this year. Then came word that they would. And now comes word that they, well, aren’t doing an upfront presentation, but they are doing is changing their programming from a “fall to spring” schedule to a “52 weeks, year round” schedule.
Um, haven’t they pretty much been doing this for a while (along with every other network) with reality shows and game shows and miniseries and special shows during the summer months? What is so remarkable about this announcement?
The network says they are going to unveil their super duper special incredible programming schedule in April, which is a month before their upfront presentation. Which they aren’t having, unless they decide to have one.
Your move, Mr. Zucker.