Today we had a discussion about disruptive innovation and creative workarounds. The discussion led to looking into the cable business model, which is buying many channels, in a tier system. The issue of Ala carte programming was raised. A spirited discussion followed. Tiered programming is the current system, where cable providers force customers to pay for channels that they do not need or want. This thinking is akin to sticking with what is familiar and not taking the risk to get ahead of the field. Ala Carte programming allows the customer the ability to pay for channels that they frequently watch. Ala Carte is the new wave that all cable and satellite providers are trying to hold back. The company argument is we are providing you with channels that keep your monthly bill low. One may ask, how does this fit into emerging technology? My answer, we have existing companies that are not willing to invest in future technology that may keep them relevant longer than Snooki from the Jersey Shore. Why is it important? Because I am paying for channels that I do not want. A dilemma in my life was created. Tow the company line and push tiered service or look at my wallet and seek alternatives. One leads to job security and the other leads to wealth security. After much back and forth, job security won out and instead of creating alternatives to watching my favorite programs for free or pushing for ala carte programming. In the immortal words of Chuck D, Fight The Power and check out the link below. Shhhh, its like bootlegging cable.
http://finance.yahoo.com/family-home/article/113459/cable-tv-budget-friendly-alternatives-kiplinger
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