Broadcast syndication refers to the distribution and sale of programs, content, or media materials, such as television series, radio shows, or movies, to multiple broadcasters or channels for broadcast. In this context, "broadcast" typically refers to traditional over-the-air television or radio, but it can also include newer forms of digital broadcasting and streaming platforms.
The process of broadcast syndication involves making content available to channels or networks that do not produce the content themselves. These programs or media materials are often produced by production companies or studios, which then license the rights to distribute them to various broadcasters. The licensors negotiate and sell these programs to broadcasters, who in turn air them on their channels or platforms.
Broadcast syndication provides a means for content creators, production companies, and studios to generate revenue by selling the rights to their programs or materials to multiple broadcasters. These broadcasters benefit from acquiring already-produced content instead of investing in its production from scratch. Syndication also allows programs or media materials to reach a wider audience by being broadcasted on different networks or channels, increasing their exposure and potentially attracting more viewership or listenership.
Furthermore, broadcast syndication can involve both first-run or original programming, as well as reruns of popular shows. It is common for successful television series or radio shows to be syndicated both during their initial run and after they have completed their original broadcast. This allows broadcasters to continue airing popular content to generate advertising revenue or attract viewership. Overall, broadcast syndication plays a vital role in the distribution and monetization of widely-watched or listened to programs in the broadcasting industry.
The word "broadcast" has its roots in the Middle English word "broke" meaning "broken" or "fragmented", and "casten" meaning "to throw" or "to scatter". It originally referred to the act of sowing seeds by scattering them widely. By the late 16th century, it had evolved to describe the spreading or dissemination of information to a wide audience.
"Syndication", on the other hand, comes from the Latin word "syndicus", which means "agent" or "proxy". It entered English in the 17th century and originally referred to the appointment of a representative to handle legal matters. Over time, it came to denote the practice of distributing content or programming through various media outlets or channels.
The term "broadcast syndication" combines these two words to describe the practice of distributing radio or television programs to multiple stations or networks for broadcast.