Scheduling programs

CUAPPM505 Develop, implement and monitor program schedules

This unit is about creating program schedules for television and radio broadcasters in commercial, public or community radio or television. It applies to individuals who plan, implement and monitor program schedules using their knowledge of program inventories and audience demographics, flows, and behavior. In this role, the programmer or scheduler liaises closely with program buyers and suppliers, and generally reports to senior station managers, including program directors.

 

How you will be assessed

You will be assessed through:

• Assessor observation on the job
• Supervisor reference (if the assessor is not the supervisor)
• Review of your workplace documents (e.g. procedures)
• Interview/assignment based on the requirements below.

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Practical

You will be assessed in the workplace as a safe environment, and must demonstrate consistent performance of typical activities in creative arts industry environments. You need access to:

1. relevant program inventories or ratings and market research
2. audience profiles as targets for program schedules
3. broadcast organisation’s policies and objectives
4. scheduling software.

You need to show that you have:

1. Analyzed market research data and current program schedules, and assessed the implications for developing program schedules.
2. Compiled written and verbal reports, with particular emphasis on audience and program analysis and conclusions drawn
3. Consulted with key production and management staff, delivering clear briefings and presentations on scheduling issues, eliciting their views on the direction and nature of required programs, and collaborating on scheduling outcomes
4. Drawn on research and consultation, and develop program schedules that meet the needs of the television or radio station
5. Implemented agreed program schedules and monitor their performance.

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Interview/assignment questions

1. Describe the broadcaster’s policies and objectives. How effective is your current programming in achieving them?
2. Explain the roles of different people involved in developing program schedules and how they interrelate
3. Describe how to identify and analyse audience markets and their characteristics
4. Explain how ratings affect the development of program schedules.
5. Explain the effects of technological developments for distributing program content
6. Discuss different ways of structuring program schedules
7. Explain how program classifications and content standards are reflected in program scheduling.

Note: Your assessor may also ask you a variety of what if questions.

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Detailed requirements

1. Assess market requirements

1. Analyse audience research and statistics to assess the current performance of station’s program schedule
2. Identify target audience requirements, markets and demographic parameters as a basis for program scheduling
3. Liaise with relevant personnel to determine the direction and nature of programs required to meet broadcaster’s policies and objectives
4. Document appropriate market research and consumer patterns in viewing or listening, as required

 

2. Assess your current program schedule

1. Analyse current program inventory and types, and suggest additions or variations to more effectively meet broadcaster’s policies and objectives
2. Evaluate performance indicators of current scheduling to determine strategies to increase or consolidate audience shares
3. Review market segments already catered for in the current schedule and identify market segments that may require additional or new programming
4. Assess program schedule for revenue performance and return on investment where applicable, according to station policies and objectives
5. Evaluate potential for scheduling programs across a range of distribution and transmission channels

 

3. Plan program schedules

1. Devise a range of scheduling options that the audience and station need to achieve desired audience shares. Your sheduling options need to fit station requirements, policies and codes of practice
2. Make program scheduling decisions based on audience appeal, interest and variety to maximise audience flows and audience demographic targets
3. Develop a program schedule, assigning appropriate weighting to programs to achieve required impact and response. Use industry-standard scheduling software to do so.
4. Get an necessary sign-offs on the proposed schedule, as required for implementation

 

4. Implement and monitor program schedules

1. Oversee the implementation of the agreed schedule according to your organisation’s procedures and commercial time constraints
2. Monitor, evaluate and assess the program schedule on a continuing basis to ensure it continues to meet audience targets
3. Modify program schedule if needed, in consultation with relevant personnel

 

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