In less than two years, the integration of Skype video calling into news broadcasts has become so pervasive that three of the major networks (ABC, CBS, NBC) in the U.S. are now using it at both a national (i.e., NBC’s Today Show, ABC’s Good Morning America, CBS’ The Early Show) and local levels (affiliate news programs across the country). Currently, several affiliate news networks are incorporating Skype video calling on air as well.
Additionally, Skype video calling is integrated on cable news networks such as CNN, Bloomberg News, Fox News Channel, Fox Business Network, Discovery Science Channel and MSNBC, as well as top national broadcasters in Canada, the Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC) and Business News Network.
So, why are broadcasters supplementing their news reporting methods with Skype?
- Convenience - Broadcasters can bring in a wide range of talent and guests from around the world at any time to share their perspectives either live or recorded, providing valuable content broadcasts and websites.
- Easy to use - Increases agility of broadcasters, as guests can be brought on air as quickly as a video call can be placed (seconds) vs. the hours that are often needed to send satellite trucks to remote locations – perfect for those pressing deadlines.
- Cost-effective - Simply requires low-cost electronic equipment (a computer, high-quality or HD video webcam) and a broadband internet connection rather than the higher costs associated with more conventional equipment.
- Innovative - Allows broadcasters to connect viewers into their programming in a way that was not previously possible.
Just last week, we saw some interesting newsmaking via Skype including an unprecedented report from Pyongyang, North Korea and with miners near rescue, ABC’s Jeffrey Kofman reported from Camp Hope in Chile.
Broadcasters can learn more on the Skype for Broadcast Web site.
